Ancient Egypt, New Kingdom, 18th to 20th Dynasty, ca. 1550 to 1077 BCE. Wow! A truly remarkable granite ushabti incised with a central column of finely preserved hieroglyphs likely stating a prayer with the name of the deceased. The ancient figure wears a thick collar necklace and grasps a hoe in each hand - both of which were new traditions for ushabti beginning in the 18th dynasty. Standing in a classic mummiform pose with fused legs and protruding feet, he holds both arms against the sides and crosses both hands atop the sternum. The haunting countenance peers forward with characteristic elongated eyes, a broad nose, and fleshy lips held closed, all flanked by a pair of sizable ears. A tripartite wig surmounts the head, with bands tying the ends of 2 parts that rest on the chest. An awe-inspiring example of exemplary Egyptian funerary artistry! Size: 2.5" W x 6.8" H (6.4 cm x 17.3 cm); 8.4" H (21.3 cm) on included custom stand.

Ushabti dolls are figures shaped like adult male or female mummies wearing traditional ancient Egyptian headdresses. The ancient Egyptians believed that after they died, their spirits would have to work in the "Field of Reeds" owned by the god of the underworld, Osiris. As a result, they are frequently depicted with arms crossed, holding picks and hoes, with baskets on their backs. This meant that the task of agricultural labor was required by all members of society, from workers to pharaohs. The wealthier nobility in Egyptian society were able to have ushabti made of faience, though wood was a more economical option for members of lower classes. However, the overall size of this example suggests that this was meant for an individual of importance.

Provenance: private Orange, California, USA collection, by descent from the noted Egyptian antiquarian Philip Mitry, who emigrated from Egypt to the US in 1951

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

We ship worldwide to most countries and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.

#174560

Some minor nicks and abrasions, commensurate with age. A few small modern pigment marks on top of head. Otherwise, intact and excellent with impressive preservation of incised detail. Light earthen deposits to recessed areas. Glued to modern wooden stand.