ITEM: Necklace
MATERIAL: Faience
CULTURE: Egyptian
PERIOD: Ptolemaic period, 305 - 30 B.C
DIMENSIONS: 480 mm
CONDITION: Good condition
PROVENANCE: Ex French private collection, acquired between 1970 - 1990

Comes with Certificate of Authenticity and Export Licence. If you are from outside the European Union, we will have to apply for the export licence again for your country, this takes 3 to 5 weeks and has a cost of 5% of the hammer price, this amount will be added to the final invoice.

The jewelry of the Ptolemaic period in Egypt (305–30 BCE) reflects a blend of traditional Egyptian design with Greek influences, resulting from the cultural fusion under the Macedonian Greek rulers. Ptolemaic necklaces often combined materials like gold, garnet, carnelian, and other semi-precious stones, fashioned in elaborate patterns that showcased both Egyptian and Hellenistic artistic motifs. Necklaces from this period frequently displayed symbols associated with Egyptian religion, such as the ankh (symbol of life), scarabs (representing rebirth), and the Eye of Horus (for protection). These symbols underscored the Egyptians’ deep-rooted beliefs in life, protection, and spirituality, while also appealing to Greek settlers and rulers who respected Egyptian traditions.

The Ptolemaic necklace designs were often characterized by a meticulous attention to detail, with goldsmiths employing filigree, granulation, and cloisonné techniques to create intricate and richly ornamented pieces. Greek-style motifs, like acanthus leaves, vine scrolls, and the goddess Isis depicted with Hellenistic features, began to appear alongside traditional Egyptian elements. This merging of styles made Ptolemaic jewelry unique, as it represented both the tastes of the ruling Greek elite and the enduring Egyptian cultural heritage. Certain necklaces included beadwork or chains with carefully crafted pendants, combining both Egyptian amuletic forms and Hellenistic elegance, indicating a harmony of styles that was characteristic of Ptolemaic art.

The cultural significance of these necklaces extended beyond mere adornment. Many Ptolemaic necklaces were crafted with amuletic significance, intended to provide spiritual protection or signify the wearer’s devotion to specific gods, blending religious devotion with personal identity. Wealthier Egyptians, as well as Greek settlers, wore these necklaces as a display of status, devotion, and cultural sophistication.