A rare ancient Egyptian hand carved wooden ushabti dating to the New Kingdom, around 1250 BC. With schematic features and traces of painted decoration, this is a large, genuine example.

Of a pleasing, slender appearance, the figure is depicted in mummiform, with the arms crossed over the chest. The tripartite wig painted in dark green, remnants of pigment also remain on the upper chest, possibly depicting a large wesekh collar which would have covered the upper part of the body.

Worn by the passing of time, this piece has lost its fine detail and gained a striking visual sense of flowing, indistinct form that one associates with the linen wrapped mummies themselves.

Hand carved wooden shabtis were of course far more costly and labour intensive than the standard mass produced pottery forms from this period. As such we can be sure this fascinating artefact was commissioned by an individual of substantial means.

The shabti was a funerary figure, placed in the tombs of wealthy individuals that, on account of its human appearance and hieroglyphic text identifying it, would fool the gods into thinking that the shabti was the deceased. This was important as all ancient Egyptians might be required to perform menial manual labour in the afterlife if summoned. It thus became common practice among the highly religious and superstitious elite to place these figures in their burial chambers, that could be substituted for themselves if need be. A fascinating, evocative and rare piece of ancient Egyptian wooden sculpture.

Dimensions: Height: 7 ¼ inches.

Condition: Good, ancient varnish and bitumen remains on the surface, intact as seen.
Provenance: Ex. UK antiques dealer, ex. private collection: Devon, UK; acquired early 20th century, shown with old collection label on back.

Authenticity: All items are unconditionally guaranteed to be Authentic as described. For added security we offer a full money-back guarantee if a recognized authority disputes the authenticity of any object sold.
 

Notes:

• Please do not hesitate to contact us if you require more photographs to evaluate condition.
• If you live in the GTA, we can arrange pickup so you save on shipping costs.
• If you are interested in selling something similar - we buy, one item or an entire collection, please contact us.
   

Shipping and Terms & Conditions

• PLEASE WAIT FOR INVOICE BEFORE MAKING YOUR PAYMENT SO WE CAN CALCULATE AND INCLUDE TAXES AND SHIPPING COSTS.
• CANADIAN BUYERS PAY APPLICABLE TAXES. More information about how we apply taxes.
• We ship within 3-5 business days of receiving payment.
• Items are guaranteed to be authentic and as described. For additional security, we offer a money-back guarantee should a recognized authority argue the authenticity of any item sold.
• We strive to be fair and specific in our descriptions. Please read each auction and bid carefully, as all sales are final.
• Shipping and handling fees are non-refundable. Restocking and other fees may be applicable as well.
• We do not offer refunds unless an item is inadvertently misrepresented (see above). Should a refund be given, it will be only for the cost of the item.
• We will make every attempt to resolve the issue if we inadvertently make a mistake (it happens). If you have any questions, pre- or post-purchase, please do not hesitate to contact us.
• International Buyers: please note that import duties, taxes, and other charges are not included in the item price or shipping fees. These costs are the buyer’s responsibility. We describe items correctly on customs forms.
• In some cases, we are able to combine multiple items to save shipping costs. If you plan to purchase more than one item, delay payment and contact us after you have purchased the first item. Otherwise, all items are sent following cleared payment.