An Egyptian Blue Glazed Faience Ushabti for Nes-Ptah
Late Period, 30th Dynasty, ca. 380-332 BCE

Shown mummiform, this fine quality ushabti is made from high-quality faience with a light blue glaze as is befitting for an important nobleman. The facial details are in high relief, there is a plaited divine beard, and the hands, that cross over the chest, carry a pick and hoe for work in the afterlife. The face is very well modeled, with cosmetic lines around the eyes, an intact nose, and a well-formed mouth featuring a slight smile. The right hand also holds a cord that suspends over the left shoulder to support a seed bag on his back. As is typical for Late Period shabtis, there is a wide dorsal pillar, and the figure stands on a trapezoidal base. Seven horizontal bands of incised hieroglyphic from Chapter VI of the Book of the Dead text wrap around legs naming the owner as Nes-Ptah

Condition: This ushabti is intact and in excellent condition overall.

Dimensions: Height: 7 3/4 inches (19.5 cm)

Provenance: Private American collection, acquired from the Belgium trade in 2012 and previously part of the Benedict collection, Poland, assembled in the early 1900s.