Description:

Ancient Egypt, Third Intermediate Period, 21st Dynasty, ca. 1070 to 943 BCE. A breathtaking example of a hand-built faience ushabti, standing in a dignified pose, that is enrobed in layers of incredibly lustrous, brilliant blue glaze. The figure presents in characteristic ushabti fashion by standing in mummiform with fused legs and feet, crossing both arms atop the chest with a pair of black-painted picks in his hands, and with a seed bag draped from both shoulders down to the middle of his back. The protruding visage exhibits gently modeled features like almond-shaped eyes outlined heavily with black pigment, a flush nose, a slender mouth with indented corners, and tall ears, all framed within the striated lappets of his tripartite wig. A column of hieroglyphic symbols down the front and onto feet. The simplified text reads "The Osiris, [name], True of Voice." Size: 1.75" W x 4.125" H (4.4 cm x 10.5 cm)

Shabti (or 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. This meant doing agricultural labor, which was required by all members of society, from workers to pharaohs. The wealthier nobility in Egyptian society were able to have shabtis made of coveted faience, and blue faience was meant to reflect the color of the river Nile both on earth and in the afterlife.

Provenance: private Las Vegas, Nevada, USA collection, acquired 6 August, 2017, Ancient Resource, Auction 60, Lot 22;ex Ancient Resource, Glendale, California, USA; ex-private Southern California collection

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#194759

  • Condition: Intact and excellent. Minor flaws and surface deposits.

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June 27, 2025 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

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