Lot 691
A Rare Reis Ushabti in Intense Blue Faience. Egypt, XXIst Dynasty, c. 1069-945 B.C. A Reis, or overseer figure. The figure similar to previous, with tripart lappet wig and painted headband, but stands with one arm down at side, the other bent and holding a pick or hoe, and wears a calf-length skirt with stiff triangular apron at front. He is covered in a splendid medium to deep blue glassy glaze. Over painted in a violet-black glaze are: the inscription running down along the front, the eyes, the knotted headband, and the pick. Pristine and superbly preserved. Height: 3-7/8", on custom stand. Museum quality and rare!
Estimated Value $1,550 - 2,250.
The ancient Egyptians believed in the afterlife that the dead would be conscripted to work the land. The ushabtis thus, were substitute figures for the deceased and would perform this labor on his behalf. Three hundred sixty-five ushabtis, one for each day of the year, were included among the deceased's burial goods. And being sensible and practical, the Egyptians believed that such a work force should not be left unmanaged. Thus overseers were included, at the ratio of one to ten ordinary ushabtis. Thus only 36 to 37 would be found in a burial.
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| Realized $1,898 |
