Ancient Egyptian lizard case from Naukratis

Copper alloy rectangular box, closed at one end, and open at the other. Through the open end was inserted the mummified or desicated remains of a lizard. This end was then sealed. On the top of the box, along the longest axis, is modelled a lizard, raised slightly, tail straight behind it and legs protruding from the sides of the body. A small raised loop is situated half way along the body. This box is corroded on the outer surfaces, and the body of the lizard is indistinct. The over all colour is redish with patches of blue and green corrosion. The box is filled with something. Perhaps still the remains of the lizard or debris. But it is compacted hard.

Ancient Egyptian lizard case from Naukratis

Object details

  • Reference: BOLMG:1886.31.67.a
  • Material: copper alloy
  • Excavator: E.A. Gardner W.M.F. Petrie
  • Object name: lizard case
  • Dimensions: Length: 38mm , Width: 17mm , Depth: 18mm
  • Published references: Petrie W M F Naukratis 1 1886
  • Site: Naukratis
  • Latitude: 30.901111
  • Longitude: 30.5925