An Amarna Faience Ring Bezel inscribed for King Tutankhamun, 18th Dynasty, ca. 1336-1327 BCE

a fine ring bezel of bright blue-glazed faience with finely incised text that reads: "Neb-kheperu-Re (nb-ḫprw-ra) - Tutankhamun’s prenomen (throne name), meaning “Lord of the Manifestations of Re.” "Heqa-iunu-shema (ḥq3-iwnw-šmˁ)" that translates “Ruler of Southern Heliopolis,” an epithet referring to Thebes as the “Heliopolis of the South.” In keeping with ancient design, the bezel has been mounted within a carefully crafted antique 18K yellow gold setting that reflects the aesthetic of New Kingdom ring forms.

The bezel is held within a revolving gold mount, allowing the inscribed face to be turned and displayed at various angles, a feature reminiscent of the functional swivel rings of antiquity. Slim spirals of gold wire are wrapped around the shoulders of the shank, adding texture and refinement, while a delicate beaded border frames the faience bezel without overwhelming its vivid blue glaze. An elegant and wearable jewel of royal association, uniting Tutankhamun’s legacy with timeless artistry, and a rare opportunity to acquire an object of both personal adornment and historic significance.

Tutankhamun, the famous boy king, was born 'Tutankhaten' during the Amarna period, probably at the capital, Akhetaten (Tell el-Amarna). The identity of his parents is disputed, but they were possibly Akhenaten and his lesser wife, Kiya; the boy was a royal prince and ascended the throne at the age of approximately eight years. Tutankhamun married Ankhesenpaaten, daughter of Akhenaten and Nefertiti, and ruled from Memphis with the advice of officials such as the vizier Ay and the general Horemheb, both of whom succeeded him as king. Analysis of Tutankhamun's mummy suggests that he was around seventeen years old when he died, but the cause of his death is a mystery. When the young king died unexpectedly, he was buried in the Valley of the Kings in what was probably intended as a non-royal tomb. This tiny tomb was discovered almost intact by Howard Carter in 1922. 

Medium: Gold, faience

Dimensions: US ring size 9¾ (UK=T, DE=21.25, CH=19.5, FR=61.45, EU=61.45, JP=19.5)

Condition: the faience bezel is intact and in excellent condition overall.

Provenance: Collection of Elaine Lustig Cohen, acquired from J.J. Klejman, NYC, February 19, 1972. Accompanied by a copy of the original sales receipt.