Ushabti figures are small statuettes made of wood, stone, or faience that are often found in large numbers in ancient Egyptian tombs. The figures range in height from approximately 100-500 mm. Their purpose was to act as a magical substitute for the deceased owner when the gods requested him to undertake menial tasks in the afterlife. The word ushabti is usually translated as 'answerer'. During the New Kingdom (1539Â?1075 BCE) the figures were made to resemble the tomb owner by being fashioned in the form of a mummy bearing the owner's name.

This is part of a large collection of antiquities, including Egyptian faience figures, bronze figurines, scarabs and earthenware objects. They originate from Egypt, Italy, India and the Middle East.

Ushabti figurine, faience, Egypt, date unknown

The ushabti figurine is pale green in colour.There is a dark green residue on the left side, possibly a pigment used for decoration. The figure holds the iconic crook and flail. The nose is broken.

Made: Egypt

No marks

A6494-1

145 mm

40 mm

30 mm