Bidspirit auction | EGYPTIAN FAIENCE USHABTI

EGYPTIAN FAIENCE USHABTI - Late Period, Ca. 664 - 332 BC.A glazed composition ushabti in typical mummiform representation, featuring a columnar body with a flaring base and hands held on the chest. The figurine is adorned with a tripartite wig and displays a nicely detailed face adorned with a false beard. Ushabtis were funerary figurines frequently placed in ancient Egyptian tombs. Their primary purpose was to serve the deceased in the afterlife by performing tasks on their behalf. The term ”ushabti” is derived from the ancient Egyptian word ”wsb, ” meaning ”answerer.” These figurines were believed to come to life in the afterworld and respond to the call of the deceased, undertaking labour or chores assigned to them.Size: 77mm x 25mm; weight 16gProvenance: Private UK collection; acquired on the UK art market, pre-2000.