A rare Egyptian Royal Carnelian Pendant for Amenhotep III, 18th Dynasty, reign of Amenhotep III, ca. 1390 – 1352 BCE
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A rare and historically significant carnelian pendant inscribed for the great pharaoh Amenhotep III, one of the most powerful rulers of Egypt’s Eighteenth Dynasty and father of Tutankhamun. Finely carved in warm translucent carnelian, the rectangular pendant bears the royal prenomen “Nebmaatre” on one side and the epithet “Chosen of Re” on the reverse, both rendered in elegantly incised hieroglyphs characteristic of high-quality New Kingdom craftsmanship. The rich orange-red tone of the stone, long associated in ancient Egypt with vitality, solar power, and protection, enhances the piece's royal and sacred nature.
“Nebmaatre” was the throne name of Amenhotep III, whose reign marked the height of Egypt’s wealth, artistic refinement, and international influence. While the epithet stp.n Rc (“Chosen of Re”) became especially common among later Ramesside rulers, it is also securely attested during the reign of Amenhotep III, including on the celebrated Gilukhepa commemorative scarab. Pendants and amulets bearing royal names were believed to invoke the divine authority and protective power of the king himself, serving both devotional and apotropaic functions.
Medium: Carnelian
Dimensions: Pendant height with bail: 3/4 inch (1.9 cm.) Strung as a necklace with a modern adjustable 18-inch chain of 18K yellow gold.
Condition: The pendant remains beautifully preserved, with crisp hieroglyphic carving and a softly polished surface that speaks to both the quality of the original workmanship and centuries of careful preservation. Although intact, there is a small chip to the lower right corner that does not detract. Restrung as a necklace on a modern adjustable 18K yellow gold chain.
Provenance: Nora Scott (1905 – 1994), Curator of Egyptian Art at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, (retired 1972), and acquired from the Metropolitan Museum of Art by deaccession. Gifted to L. Virginia Burton (1918–2009) Associate Curator of Egyptian Art at the Metropolitan Museum of Art (retired 1977), and then by descent.
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Furthermore, we conduct due diligence to ensure the item, to the best of our knowledge, has not been illegally obtained from an excavation, architectural monument, public institution, or private property. Wherever possible, reference is made to existing collections or publications.Wherever possible, reference is made to existing collections or publications.
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