String of beads
Unknown Artist
ca. 1070–343 B.C.
Medium
Shell, bone and faience
Dimensions
L 11.3 cm (4 7/16 in.)
Classification
Beads, amulets, string (wedjat eyes, Bes amulet)
Period
Third Intermediate Period–Late Period
Department
Egyptian Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Rogers Fund, 1931
Accession Number
31.3.113f
Art Historical Context
This delicate **String of Beads**, to around 1070–343 B.C. during Egypt's Third Intermediate Period through the Late Period (Dyn 21–30), a glimpse into the everyday artistry of ancient Egypt. through the Rogers Fund in 193, this 11.3 cm necklace reflects a time of political flux—marked by divided rule among Libyan, Nubian, native Egyptian dynasties—yet enduring cultural traditions in personal adornment. Such beads were likely worn as jewelry or amulets, symbolizing status, protection, or piety in a society where beauty intertwined with spirituality. Crafted from shell, bone, and faience—a gla...