Necklace
2960–2649 B.C.
FindspotZawyet el-Aryan, Egypt
Medium/TechniqueCarnelian, limestone, quartz
DimensionsLength: 63 cm (24 13/16 in.)
Credit LineHarvard University—Boston Museum of Fine Arts Expedition
Accession number11.2564
On View
On viewClassificationsJewelry / Adornment
DescriptionThis necklace, worn by a child, is made up primarily of truncated barrel beads of carnelian and cylindrical beads of carnelian and limestone, surrounding a finely carved pendant in the shape of a lioness or panther head. The exact function of such an amulet is uncertain. Perhaps the fierce creature was intended to ward off potential harm. Alternatively, it may have been hoped that the animal's strength and speed would be transferred to the wearer. Perhaps it appealed to its owner simply for its beauty.
ProvenanceFrom Zawyet el-Aryan, Grave Z 116. 1910-11: excavated by the Harvard University–Boston Museum of Fine Arts Expedition; assigned to the MFA in the division of finds by the government of Egypt.(Accession date: October 19, 1911)
2960–2649 B.C.
2575–2465 B.C.
1991–1783 B.C.
4200–3250 B.
2323–2040 B.C.
Naqada I–III 3850–2960 B.C.
2040–1640 B.C.
270 B.C.–A.D. 320
270 B.C.–A.D. 320
270 B.C.–A.D. 320
270 B.C.–A.D. 320