Broad Collar

Description

[Egypt, Style of late Dynasty 18 but essentially modern] Jewelry, an important element of ancient Egyptian culture, encompassed a variety of materials, such as glass, gems, and precious substances, including faience and other ceramics. Some ancient Egyptian jewelry helped provide spiritual protection in life and death, most notably scarab amulets, which represent Khepri, the early morning sun god connected with resurrection. As seen in the silhouettes of both Chanel necklaces, the <em>wesekh</em>, or broad-collar necklace, is often referenced in modern and contemporary fashion. This was donned by members of the ancient Egyptian elite and often shown in depictions of deities, highlighting the hierarchy of access to such fine jewelry.