EGYPTIAN FAIENCE USHABTI

Late Period, Ca. 664-332 BC
Crafted from light faience, the ushabti with a mummiform style, stands atop a diminutive and level base. With a gesture denoting reverence, the hands of this remarkable artifact are gracefully interlocked upon the chest, firmly grasping the symbolic implements associated with the afterlife. Noteworthy is the intricately fashioned head, featuring a meticulously detailed wig, an ornate false beard, and a compelling procession of hieroglyphs adorning the frontal plane. In contrast, the posterior surface remains unembellished, presenting a flat and unadorned aspect. Ushabtis, derived from the ancient Egyptian term "swabty," meaning "answerer," represent diminutive funerary figurines that occupy a pivotal role within the burial customs and spiritual beliefs of ancient Egypt. Typically found in considerable numbers within tombs, these ushabtis were intended to serve the deceased in the realms beyond, fulfilling a myriad of duties and responsibilities on their behalf. Ascribed with the ability to spring to life and engage in manual labor and tasks, they were entrusted with assisting the departed in the afterlife.
Size: L:123mm / W:35mm ; 70g
Provenance: Private London collection, ex. B. Kickx and J. Peeters collections, pre 1978, Belgium.
Estimate: GBP 200 - 300