Egyptian Sandstone Ushabti Figure | Late Period (664–332 BCE)
Description
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Historical Context & Origin
Region: Egypt
Material: Sandstone with mineral surface deposits
Period: Late Period, 26th–30th Dynasty (Circa 664–332 BCE)
Description
This ancient Egyptian sandstone ushabti is a finely carved funerary figure created during the Late Period, when ushabtis were produced in great numbers to serve the deceased in the afterlife. Standing in the classic mummiform posture, the figure retains its traditional proportions and crossed-arm stance, with faint remnants of facial detailing still present beneath millennia of mineral accretion.
Sandstone ushabtis are significantly less common than the more typical faience examples, making this piece a desirable and unusual variant with strong archaeological presence. Its warm, earthen coloration and naturally weathered patina reflect long-term burial conditions and the authentic aging expected from a Late Period tomb artifact.
Features
- Carved from solid sandstone
- Classic mummiform shape with crossed arms
- Deep mineral deposits and surface weathering from ancient burial
- Distinctive Late Period proportions and silhouette
- Rare sandstone variant (far less common than faience counterparts)
Cultural Significance
Ushabtis (also shabtis or shawabtis) served as ritual attendants for the deceased, intended to perform agricultural and labour duties in the afterlife as described in Chapter 6 of the Book of the Dead. Their presence within tombs symbolized protection, continuity, and service beyond death.
This figure, crafted during the Late Period—a time marked by foreign influence and artistic revival—reflects the enduring religious beliefs and funerary customs that shaped Egyptian mortuary culture for over a millennium.
Condition
Good archaeological condition with expected surface wear from burial. Mineral deposits, erosion, and smoothing are consistent with age and authenticity. No modern restoration detected.
Dimensions (Approximate)
Height: 3.5 in
Width: 1.0 in
Age
Circa 664–332 BCE (Late Period)
Learn More
Explore a curated overview of Ancient Egyptian shabtis, their evolution, and their role in funerary tradition: A History of Ancient Egyptian Shabtis in 11 Figures – National Museums Scotland
Discover additional ushabtis and related Egyptian artifacts available in our collection: Ushabti Figures & Egyptian Funerary Artifacts – Relic And Rarity
Description
Historical Context & Origin
Region: Egypt
Material: Sandstone with mineral surface deposits
Period: Late Period, 26th–30th Dynasty (Circa 664–332 BCE)
Description
This ancient Egyptian sandstone ushabti is a finely carved funerary figure created during the Late Period, when ushabtis were produced in great numbers to serve the deceased in the afterlife. Standing in the classic mummiform posture, the figure retains its traditional proportions and crossed-arm stance, with faint remnants of facial detailing still present beneath millennia of mineral accretion.
Sandstone ushabtis are significantly less common than the more typical faience examples, making this piece a desirable and unusual variant with strong archaeological presence. Its warm, earthen coloration and naturally weathered patina reflect long-term burial conditions and the authentic aging expected from a Late Period tomb artifact.
Features
- Carved from solid sandstone
- Classic mummiform shape with crossed arms
- Deep mineral deposits and surface weathering from ancient burial
- Distinctive Late Period proportions and silhouette
- Rare sandstone variant (far less common than faience counterparts)
Cultural Significance
Ushabtis (also shabtis or shawabtis) served as ritual attendants for the deceased, intended to perform agricultural and labour duties in the afterlife as described in Chapter 6 of the Book of the Dead. Their presence within tombs symbolized protection, continuity, and service beyond death.
This figure, crafted during the Late Period—a time marked by foreign influence and artistic revival—reflects the enduring religious beliefs and funerary customs that shaped Egyptian mortuary culture for over a millennium.
Condition
Good archaeological condition with expected surface wear from burial. Mineral deposits, erosion, and smoothing are consistent with age and authenticity. No modern restoration detected.
Dimensions (Approximate)
Height: 3.5 in
Width: 1.0 in
Age
Circa 664–332 BCE (Late Period)
Learn More
Explore a curated overview of Ancient Egyptian shabtis, their evolution, and their role in funerary tradition: A History of Ancient Egyptian Shabtis in 11 Figures – National Museums Scotland
Discover additional ushabtis and related Egyptian artifacts available in our collection: Ushabti Figures & Egyptian Funerary Artifacts – Relic And Rarity
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