Poppy-Bead Necklace

Place of OriginEgypt, Akhetaten (modern Tell el-Amarna)

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 flowers were common in ancient Egyptian gardens and carried symbolic associations with beauty, rebirth, and ritual offerings. Floral bead forms were especially popular during the New Kingdom, when this necklace was likely made. The beads were excavated at the ancient city of Amarna, the capital founded by Pharaoh Akhenaten in the 14th century BCE, during the 1923–1924 excavation season led by the Egypt Exploration Society. Through the Society’s official division of finds, the beads were allocated to the Toledo Museum of Art in 1925. At some point after their arrival, the necklace was restrung together with a separate group of beads acquired earlier (accession 1915.131) to create a visually appealing presentation. The current strand does not replicate an original ancient composition, but reflects a modern display strategy for exhibition. Ask ChatGPTExhibition HistoryToledo Museum of Art, The Egypt Experience: Secrets of the Tomb, October 29, 2010-January 8, 2012.