Egypt, New Kingdom, 19th Dynasty, ca. 1220 to 1100 BCE. A remarkable example of a mold-formed pottery ushabti enveloped in a rich hue of sienna with black-painted hieroglyphics inscribed vertically down its legs. The figure stands in mummiform with fused legs and holds black-painted tools intended to help with agricultural work in the afterlife - a pick and hoe in crossed arms, as well as a braided rope carrying a bag over its left shoulder. The peaceful visage exhibits slender, black-painted eyes, arching brows, a triangular nose, full lips embellished with a black striation, and a tapered chin, all beneath a tripartite wig with lengthy lappets. Size: 1.875" W x 6.875" H (4.8 cm x 17.5 cm); 7.375" H (18.7 cm) on included custom stand.

Ushabti (or shabti) dolls are figures shaped like adult male or female mummies wearing traditional ancient Egyptian headdresses that were left in tombs to function as servants for the recently deceased and help them with agricultural work in the afterlife. The ancient Egyptians believed that after they died, their spirits would have to work in the "Field of Reeds" owned by the god of the underworld, Osiris. Thus, agricultural labor was required of all members of society, from workers to pharaohs.

Provenance: private New York, New York, USA collection; ex-Julian Bird collection, London, England, acquired between 1970 to 2012

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#162147

Collection label on bottom. Feet have been reattached. Expected light abrasions, pitting, softening of detail, and a few surface hairline fissures commensurate with age. Otherwise, excellent with nice crystallization on head and impressive remaining pigment.