Scott-EgyptianJewelry-1964

Overview

  • Author: Nora E. Scott

  • Source: The Metropolitan Museum of Art Bulletin, March 1964.

Egyptian Jewelry

  • The reconstruction of Egyptian Galleries maintains the display of Egypt's extraordinary collection of jewelry, including famous finds like the "Lahun Treasure" and the "Treasure of the Three Princesses."

  • Jewelry's purposes in the Western world: adornment, sentiment, investment, and religious symbols.

  • In ancient Egypt, jewelry was first worn for amuletic value, combining material, design, and color for protection.

Historical Context

Early Jewelry

  • Prehistoric Egyptians used various objects for protection against unknown forces.

  • Bright stones (e.g., blue, green, red) attracted attention and were thought to hold divine properties.

Dynastic Developments

  • Evolution in jewelry from simple amulets to more sophisticated designs during the unification of Egypt (c. 3000 B.C.).

  • Early histories of jewelry often lost due to tomb robberies, but examples include a body discovered with jewelry in place (Amenophis III).

  • Evidence shows mastery in craftsmanship, with some early pieces dating back to Dynasty II (around 2700 B.C.).

Categories of Jewelry

Function and Chronology

  • Jewelry is categorized by function and historical development, showcasing items like necklaces and broad collars:

  • Necklaces: Ranging from simple bone and shell beads to elaborately designed gold necklaces.

  • Broad collars: Multiple layers of cylindrical beads and pendants, often accompanied by matching wristlets and anklets.

Specific Examples

  1. Teye's Figurine (Dynasty XVII, c. 1375 B.C.): Painted wood figurine adorned with carnelian and gold beads.

  2. Miuyet's Jewelry (Dynasty XI, c. 2050 B.C.): Example of Middle Kingdom craftsmanship, showcasing gold discs and colored beads.

  3. Treasures of the Three Princesses (Dynasty XVIII, c. 1450 B.C.): Included an extensive array of necklaces, bracelets, and headdresses.

Jewelry Functionality

  • Jewelry served dual purposes: aesthetic appeal and protection against rivals and dangers.

  • Use of scarabs and amulets as symbols of protection and identity, with designs often linked to the bearer’s status and lineage.

  • Unique items, such as personalized headdresses, showcased wealth and artistry in Egyptian culture.

Notable Artifacts

  • The article features illustrations of various significant pieces, including:

  • Gold pectoral of Sit-Hathor-Yunet, one of the best-known Egyptian artifacts, symbolizing wealth and divine favor.

  • Gold circlets and floral wigs, demonstrating the intricacy and artistry of jewelry from the period.

  • The construction techniques of these ancient items reveal insight into the standards of craftsmanship of the era.