An Egyptian Faience Beaded Necklace, Late Period, ca. 664 - 332 BCE

A long necklace composed of small turquoise-blue faience tubular and barrel beads, interspersed with tan-colored elements. The necklace, measuring 28 inches in total length, was restrung in the early 20th century in the fashion of a 1920s flapper necklace. One strand remains unstrung, and the first gathering of strands shows loose threading; otherwise, the beads are stable and display surface wear consistent with ancient use and handling.

Egyptian faience, a ceramic of sintered quartz coated with a lustrous glaze—was among the most admired materials of antiquity. Its radiant blue color, derived from copper-based pigments, symbolized vitality, renewal, and the life-giving properties of the Nile. Beads of this type were produced in vast quantities during the Late Period, worn both in life and placed among funerary assemblages.

This example bridges two worlds: an authentic ancient ornament adapted to early 20th-century fashion, its long strands reflecting both ancient craftsmanship and Art Deco sensibility.

Medium: Faience

Dimensions: Length: 28 inches (71.12 cm)

Condition: One strand of beads is unstrung.  Loose string at first gathering of strands. Loose string at end of blue beads gathering. Otherwise, in good condition.

Provenance: Private California collection, acquired in the 1920s and then by descent.

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