Egyptian Faience Beads

New Kingdom, c. 1550–1069 BC, Egypt

This exquisite strand of archaic faience beads showcases the artistic ingenuity and profound symbolism of ancient Egyptian culture. Beads like these adorned necklaces that ranged from simple, understated designs to intricate arrangements featuring amuletic shapes such as uraeus cobras, wedjat-eyes (Eye of Horus), scarabs, and figures of revered deities like Hathor. Egyptian faience, known as tjehenet, was a revolutionary material in antiquity, celebrated as the first man-made non-clay ceramic. Its production dates back to the Pre-Dynastic period, underscoring its deep cultural and historical significance. Faience was crafted using finely ground quartz or sand (silica) mixed with alkaline salts, lime, and metallic colorants. The result was a luminous glaze, with hues often derived from copper (yielding turquoise tones) or cobalt (producing rich blues).

The colors of faience carried profound meaning for the Egyptians, far beyond their aesthetic appeal. Blue and blue-green hues, resembling turquoise, were imbued with magical significance. These shades symbolized the heavens, the life-giving waters of the Nile, and concepts of rejuvenation and eternal life—core tenets of Egyptian spiritual beliefs.This beautifully re-strung strand of ancient faience beads features a captivating palette, with colors ranging from soft turquoise to pale blue and white. Once cherished by both commoners and nobility, these beads offer a timeless connection to the vibrant material culture and symbolic artistry of ancient Egypt. Their enduring legacy speaks to a civilization that celebrated beauty, craftsmanship, and spirituality in every aspect of life.

Good condition. Age-related wear and minor abrasion. Length c. 42,0 cm with approx. 47 unique beads. Beads collected in the early 20th century. Cotton string is modern. 

Provenance: Dutch private collection

References and further reading:

Egyptian Faiance: Technology and Production, Carolyn Riccardelli, Department of Objects Conservation, December 2017, The Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Ancient Technology: Faiance Beads in the Garstang Museum, Garstang Museum of Archaeology.

Gifts of the Nile: Ancient Egyptian Faiance, Friedman, Florence Dunn, Thames and Hudson, London, 1998.