Ancient Egypt, Late Dynastic Period, 26th to 31st Dynasty, ca. 664 to 332 BCE. A tall and finely-detailed ushabti (or shabti) of an absolutely gorgeous, pale-blue color. Standing in mummiform atop an integral rectangular plinth, the figure's form is defined by a slender waist, with broad, rounded shoulders, and folded arms holding the symbolic crook and flail to sow the fields of Osiris in the afterlife. The face similarly displays a high level of detail, including plaiting lines on the false beard, naturalistic eyes, nose, and mouth, as well as the individual cording of the tripartite headdress. A beautiful example! Size: 5" H (12.7 cm).

Ushabti dolls are figures shaped like adult male or female mummies wearing the traditional ancient Egyptian headdresses. 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. This meant doing agricultural labor - and it was required by all members of society, from workers to pharaohs. The wealthier nobility in Egyptian society were able to have shabtis made of faience; blue faience was meant to reflect the color of the river Nile both on earth and in the afterlife. The hieroglyphic inscriptions gave the shabti their power, telling Osiris that they were to do work for him.

Provenance: private Littleton, Colorado, USA collection

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#131623

Expected age-commensurate surface wear and abrasions, with areas of discoloration to head, back, and base. Miniscule pitting holes across most surfaces, otherwise intact and excellent. Light earthen and mineral deposits throughout.