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 on the edge of the box, near the head, and on the opposite edge near the tail of the lizard. This box is corroded on the outer The over all outer colour is redish and brown. The box is empty. Traces of a clear varnish like surface consolidant, modern.

Ancient Egyptian lizard case from Naukratis

Object details

  • Reference: BOLMG:1886.31.67.g
  • Material: copper alloy
  • Excavator: E.A. Gardner W.M.F. Petrie
  • Object name: lizard case
  • Dimensions: Length: 60mm , Width: 27mm , Depth: 22mm
  • Published references: Petrie W M F Naukratis 1 1886
  • Site: Naukratis
  • Latitude: 30.901111
  • Longitude: 30.5925