Ancient Egypt, New Kingdom period, 19th Dynasty, ca. 1320 to 1200 BCE. A well-preserved, tall, and hand-carved wooden ushabti with a wonderful form displaying a myriad of fine details. The figure stands in mummiform with slender legs, with elbows projecting from its sides. Painted details include a pair of hands holding the symbolic pick and hoe, a large pectoral collar which hangs between each shoulder, and a singular column of faint hieroglyphic symbols tracing down the lower body, all atop a layer of faded bitumen. The stylized head dons a tripartite wig which frames a minimalist visage comprised of almond eyes, thin lips, and a broad nose. Wooden ushabti are of far greater rarity than their stone or faience counterparts due to the rapid rate of decomposition over time. A spectacular example! Custom museum-quality display stand included. Size: 2.425" W x 8.25" H (6.2 cm x 21 cm); 8.75" H (22.2 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.

Provenance: private Houston, Texas, USA collection; ex-private New York, New York, USA collection; ex-private Belgian collection

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#132838

Surface wear commensurate with age, with dozens of stable expansion fissures. Fading to painted details and hieroglyphic text, loss to front portion of feet and nose, otherwise excellent. Light earthen deposits and nice pigmentation remains throughout.