Egyptian Glass and Carnelian Poppy Bead Necklace

$4,422.99

A stunning necklace strung with red carnelian beads throughout the length. In addition, there are 27 larger beads in the shape of poppies or thistles, which are made from a selection of carnelian, blue-, and green glass. The plain beads show aesthetically pleasing differentiation in their shades of red, thus showcasing the natural beauty of this precious stone. Each poppy and thistle bead is carefully crafted and match one another beautifully.

Date: Circa 2133 - 1797 BC
Period: Middle Kingdom
Condition: Excellent condition.

SOLD

SKU: EC-278 Category: Tag:

An integral part of Ancient Egyptian culture, amulets were considered to possess protective and empowering properties for the benefit of their wearer. They held different meanings, depending on their type or form. Small amulets depicting gods and goddesses seem to have induced the protective powers of the deity. On the other hand, small representations of anatomical features or creatures suggest that the wearer required protection over a specific body part, or that he/she desired the skills of a particular animal.

Poppy or thistle amulets were representative of healing and the removal of pain. Thistles were common all over Egypt, but especially around the Nile. It is thought that they were peeled and boiled before consumption, with the thistle used in some parts of the world as a herbal treatment for hepatic disorders. If, on the other hand, the amulet is intended to represent a poppy, the piece retains symbolic significance. Indeed, there is evidence for the extraction of morphine from poppies in the ancient world.

To find out more about the use of carnelian in Ancient Egyptian culture please see our relevant blog post: The Significance of Carnelian in Ancient Egyptian Culture.

 

Dimensions L 29.00 cm
Culture

Semi-Precious Stones

Region

Country

Reference: For similar see: The Petrie Museum, accession number UC38911.

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