A pair of Egyptian Alabaster Ear Plugs, New Kingdom, 18th Dynasty, ca. 1550 - 1295 BCE
EJ2528
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A fine and rare pair of Egyptian earrings or ear plugs, hand carved from warm, creamy alabaster. Each is formed with a domed, mushroom-shaped head and a short cylindrical post, the softly polished surfaces and balanced proportions reflecting accomplished ancient lapidary skill. Stone examples of this type are quite rare, as most known ear plugs from the New Kingdom were produced in faience or glass. The choice of alabaster, a material valued for its translucence and refinement, strongly suggests elite ownership.
Such ornaments were worn in enlarged ear piercings by members of the upper strata of Egyptian society and functioned as markers of status as much as personal adornment. During the New Kingdom, a period of extraordinary artistic achievement and cultural exchange, personal jewelry played an important role in expressing rank, identity, and access to luxury materials. Despite their modest scale, pieces such as these offer an intimate insight into elite self-presentation and the aesthetics of adornment in ancient Egyptian society.
Medium: Alabaster
Dimensions: Diameter: 3/4 inch (1.9 cm), Length: 1/2 inch (1.27 cm)
Condition: Expected minor loss to the terminals but otherwise in very good overall condition overall with smooth surface patina consistent with age and use. No evident restoration or modern alteration.
Provenance: Alex Malloy private collection, acquired before 1980.
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