Ancient Egyptian necklace from Qarara dated AD 395 – 641

A necklace of 15 amber disc beads, with central holes for suspension. The beads are attached to a plaited leather band by leather strips, some of which have perished. There is a large bead in the centre with two smaller ones on either side, then there is a single larger bead after these on each side, and then two further smaller beads. Beneath the band described above have been glued four smaller beads with the remains of leather suspension loops). However they seem to have come from a continuation of the band, rather than from a separate tier, judging by the leather, which shows no breaks in the central section. There are also two diamond shaped beads loose in the box. The leather is dry but in tact.

Ancient Egyptian necklace from Qarara dated AD 395 – 641

Object details

  • Reference: BOLMG:1903.46.50
  • Material: amber leather
  • Period: Byzantine Period
  • Excavator: B.P. Grenfell
  • Dated: AD 395 - 641
  • Object name: necklace
  • Dimensions: Length: 191mm , Width: 75mm , Depth: 12mm , Length (plastazote): 247mm , Width (plastazote): 159mm , Depth (plastazote): 5mm
  • Published references: Grenfell B P & Hunt A S Egypt Exploraton Fund Archaeological Reports 1902 - 1903
  • Site: Qarara