**Originally Listed At $500**

Egypt, Late Period, Dynasties 26 to 31, ca. 664 to 343 BCE. A beautiful standing mummiform ushabti figure in saturated aqua blue faience, waiting to do the work of the newly deceased. Hands holding crook and flail, false beard and central pillar down back. Only the elite members of Egyptian society had ushabtis made of faience, and blue faience in particular was meant to reflect the color of the river Nile both on earth and in the afterlife. Ancient Egyptians created Ushabti figures, because they believed that after they passed away, their spirits would have to work in the "Field of Reeds" owned by the god of the underworld, Osiris. This meant doing agricultural labor -- and it was required by all members of society, from workers to pharaohs. A lovely example that represents this fascinating belief. Block stand. Size: 4.625" H (11.7 cm); 5.125" H (13 cm) on stand.

Provenance: Ex-Private FL collection, from an old New Jersey collection acquired in the 1960's

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.

#117515

Intact with scattered white mineral deposits on lower end.