Necklace of Stone Beads
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Object Label
The three necklaces in this case were discovered in graves. Ancient Egyptians apparently wore jewelry not only as adornments but also as protective symbols. Beads of different materials may have been chosen for the symbolic qualities of their colors. The amulet represents the head of a powerful bull—or possibly a nurturing cow—and was probably thought to transfer that animal’s characteristics to its wearer.
Caption
Necklace of Stone Beads, ca. 3500–3300 B.C.E.. Steatite, carnelian, diorite, porphyry, hematite, Egyptian alabaster, agate, soapstone , 2 1/2 x 2 1/4 in. (6.4 x 5.7 cm). Brooklyn Museum, Charles Edwin Wilbour Fund, 09.889.301a. (Photo: Brooklyn Museum)
Title
Necklace of Stone Beads
Date
ca. 3500–3300 B.C.E.
Period
Predynastic Period, Naqada IIb-d
Geography
Place excavated: Adaima, Egypt
Medium
Steatite, carnelian, diorite, porphyry, hematite, Egyptian alabaster, agate, soapstone
Classification
Dimensions
2 1/2 x 2 1/4 in. (6.4 x 5.7 cm)
Credit Line
Charles Edwin Wilbour Fund
Accession Number
09.889.301a
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