String of Shell, Faience, and Stone Beads
1 of 3
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
String of Shell, Faience, and Stone Beads, ca. 3300–3100 B.C.E.. Shell, faience, carnelian, limestone, lapis lazuli, Largest bead: 5/8 x 3/8 in. (1.6 x 0.9 cm). Brooklyn Museum, Charles Edwin Wilbour Fund, 09.889.304. (Photo: Brooklyn Museum)
Title
String of Shell, Faience, and Stone Beads
Date
ca. 3300–3100 B.C.E.
Period
Predynastic Period, Naqada III Period
Geography
Place collected: Abu Zaidan, Egypt
Medium
Shell, faience, carnelian, limestone, lapis lazuli
Classification
Dimensions
Largest bead: 5/8 x 3/8 in. (1.6 x 0.9 cm)
Credit Line
Charles Edwin Wilbour Fund
Accession Number
09.889.304
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