Egyptian Faience Mummy Bead Necklace String 664–332 B.C.
Date
Late Period, 664–332 B.C.
Dimensions
24 ⅜ in. (62 cm), 4.97 g
Material
Faience beads
Condition
Good – beads intact but restrung; surface wear consistent with age.
Description
A long necklace of tubular and disc-shaped faience beads, restrung for stability. Such necklaces were worn as adornments and placed in burials as protective ornaments, symbolising regeneration and divine favour.
Scholarly Reference
Comparable faience bead strings in Late Period burials.
Provenance
Authentication
Accompanied by illustrated lot declaration signed by Head of Antiquities Dr. Raffaele D’Amato.
Our authentication process employs ultraviolet (UV) fluorescence examination at a wavelength of 365 nanometres (nm), following principles outlined in standard conservation practice (e.g., CIE Publication 15:2018 and Getty Conservation Institute Methods for Examination of Cultural Materials).
Purpose:
Ultraviolet examination assists in the non-destructive identification of modern restoration materials, synthetic pigments, adhesives, and surface alterations that are not visible under normal lighting. It is a diagnostic support method used in conjunction with stylistic, compositional, and provenance analysis.
Handle artifacts gently with clean hands or gloves, avoid harsh cleaning products, and dust only with a soft brush. Store or display pieces in a stable environment away from sunlight, heat, and moisture. Wrap in acid-free tissue for transport, and consult a professional conservator for any restoration needs.
