Poppy-Bead Necklace

Place of OriginEgypt

DateNew Kingdom, Dynasty 18-20

Dimensionsoverall: 3 5/8 in. (9.2 cm)

MediumCarnelian

ClassificationJewelry

Credit LineGift of the Egypt Exploration Society

Object number

1925.766

Not on View

DescriptionNecklace composed of 43 carnelian beads with a central one in the shape of a poppy bud. Restrung in modern times with 1915.131.

Label TextThis necklace consists of forty-three carnelian beads, several of which are shaped like flower buds—likely representing poppies or cornflowers. Both were prominent in ancient Egyptian gardens and carried symbolic associations with beauty, renewal, and ritual offerings. These floral forms were especially popular in the New Kingdom. These beads were acquired through the Egypt Exploration Society in 1925 and later strung with an earlier group of beads from a separate object (accession 1915.131) to create a visually appealing display. While these beads now form a continuous strand with older materials, the modern assembly does not reflect an original ancient composition and is intended for exhibition purposes.Exhibition HistoryToledo Museum of Art, The Egypt Experience: Secrets of the Tomb, October 29, 2010-January 8, 2012.