Egyptian Alabaster Shabti

$2,337.87

A carved alabaster shabti with painted details in red and black, including a frontal panel of hieroglyphic text to the lower body. The shabti boasts a tripartite wig and agricultural tools, and the back is similarly painted with wig and seed bag. The hieroglyphic text is faded but legible. This item comes complete with purpose-made display stand.

Date: Circa 664 - 332 BC
Period: Late Dynastic Period
Condition: Excellent condition.

SOLD

SKU: AS-3364 Category: Tags: , ,

Shabtis (or ushabtis) were figurines in mummified form, which were placed in Egyptian tombs to do any work required by the deceased in the afterlife. They were inscribed with a special formula (Shabti formula), which would call them to life when recited. Sometimes shabtis were also inscribed with passages from the Book of the Dead, the intention of which was to secure safety for the deceased in the afterlife. This is presumably the role of the hieroglyphics on this item. Shabtis were mostly made of faience, but wood, bronze, and stone were also used –  it is rare for shabtis to be made from alabaster, as this one is, providing a conspicuous indicator of the wealth of its previous owner. Towards the Late Period, the number of shabtis inside the tomb increased, eventually allowing one for each day of the year.

 

Weight 375 g
Dimensions H 14.2 cm
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Culture

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Stone