Description
The Saitic Period was the last native dynasty and it was marked by unrest and frequent revolt until finally succumbing to Persian control in 525 BC. Consequently, the artistic production of Egypt during this period was low in quantity and quality.
Yet, as the present ushabti can attest, the centuries old traditions for producing good quality ceramic glazes persisted even though the sculptural qualities of the pieces were lesser to a great degree. This pieces has very good and pleasing blue color and it is marked with in black paint with the usual names and funereal incantations, but the modelling of the facial features is summary with indistinguishable characteristics and an overall stocky appearance.
Good collector’s piece for its color which is reminiscent of the work of earlier, more prosperous time periods.
Note: The ushabti also known as Shabti, were thought of as “helper” figures for the dead and used extensively in Ancient Egyptian funeral preparations and in the burial of the mummified person. In later periods of Egyptian funerial practices ushabti would be strewn in abundance on the grave chamber floor, but the original practices included as many as 400 “helpers” to take care of the dead person in afterlife.
The early origins of the practice may have its origins in actual human sacrificial practices that dispatched a large number of servants together with the deceased to continue in their role as servants.
Size: 4 3/8” inches.
Condition: Good with a barely perceptible hairline repair, nothing missing.
Provenance: Acquired from a Collector’s Estate Sale in 2002.
Originally, 1960’s, Private New York City Collection.
