Ancient Egyptian Steatite Flower Bead Ex. Gustav Jecquier

Ancient Egyptian Bead

Measurement: .9 cm in diameter

Material: glazed steatite

Technique: drilled, carved, glazed; pierced for suspension

Condition: glaze has worn off, leaving only traces of blue pigment between the petals.

Date: New Kingdom

Provenance: Collected by Gustave Jéquier (1868-1946)

Ex. Billy Jamieson Collection, 2009 (1954-2011)

Authentication: Gayle Gibson, Royal Ontario Museum Toronto

Identification and Interpretation: Circular flower-shaped bead with spiral pattern on the back. The bead is grooved on the edges so that it might be strung through the hole and then steadied in place by other threads.

Workmanship: Flower petals are well carved, though not uniform. Spiral on the bottom is not well proportioned.

Function and Meaning: Beads with floral elements could be incorporated into necklaces, bracelets or head-bands. The blue colour suggests a cornflower, more commonly found in jewelry for the living.