Fragment of a votive bracelet
Unknown Artist
ca. 1295–1070 B.C.
Medium
Faience
Dimensions
H. 2.7 × W. 3.5 × Th. 0.9 cm (1 1/16 × 1 3/8 × 3/8 in.)
Classification
Votive bracelet
Period
New Kingdom, Ramesside
Department
Egyptian Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of Egypt Exploration Fund, 1909
Accession Number
09.182.19.16
Art Historical Context
This delicate fragment of a votive bracelet hails from Egypt's New Kingdom, specifically the Ramesside period (Dynasties 19–20, ca. 1295–1070 B.C.), a golden age of imperial power under pharaohs like Ramses II. Votive objects like this were offered to deities in temples as acts of piety, seeking divine favor or gratitude. Though only a small piece survives—measuring just 2.7 cm high—it hints at the opulent jewelry worn or dedicated by ancient Egyptians, blending everyday devotion with artistic finesse. Crafted from faience, a signature Egyptian material of glazed quartz paste fired to a vibra...