Usekh means “broad” in ancient Egyptian. The usekh necklace was worn by the nobility in Ancient Egypt as a talisman associated with Hathor.
It consisted of two flat, semicircular closures forming a large half-moon. The weaving typically comprised a network of multi-colored pearls made from faience, hard stone, or precious metal.
Frequently, the outer edge was adorned with pendants. A counterweight placed on the wearer’s back helped balance this heavy necklace.
Since the Middle Kingdom, it was also positioned on the chests of mummies, depicted on cardboard, as a protective measure, showcasing various symbols such as falcon heads, spread-winged vultures, cobras, garlands, or polychrome plant motifs, aiding in success in Osiris’ underworld.
From the Late Period of ancient Egypt, in the Book of the Dead, formulas 157 and 158 outlined the necessary rituals during funerals to place the usekh as protection for the deceased.
It appears that the origin of this ornament can be traced back to an ancient plant necklace consisting of nine rows of small plants, possibly lotuses or another fragrant flower. When replicated by goldsmiths, it was crafted in gold, as specified in texts, adorned with precious stones and lapis lazuli.
The Usekh collar was at times referred to as the “garland of Atum,” with its nine rows being described in various ways: “the effigy of the ennead,” “Atum reunited with his children,” or “garland of khepri.”
All these names are associated with the sun, endowing the necklace with heightened significance and power, combining the forces of Hathor, Atum, and those of Heliopolis.
Broad collar of Senebtisi, 1850–1775 BC; faience, gold, carnelian and turquoise; Metropolitan Museum of Art
Usekh Collar of Princess Neferuptah
Usekh Collar of Queen Ahhotep I
Bust of Nefertiti wearing a Usekh Collar
News
Unveiling the Ingenious Engineering of the Inca Civilization: The Mystery of the Drill Holes at the Door of the Moon Temple in Qorikancha – How Were They Made? What Tools Were Used? What Secrets Do They Hold About Inca Technology? And What Does Their Discovery Mean for Our Understanding of Ancient Construction Methods?
In the heart of Cusco, Peru, nestled within the ancient Qorikancha complex, lies a fascinating testament to the advanced engineering prowess of the Inca civilization. Here, archaeologists have uncovered meticulously angled drill holes adorning the stone walls of the Door…
Unveiling the Sun Stone: Aztec Relic from the Reign of Moctezuma II (1502-1520) – What Secrets Does It Hold? How Was It Used? What Symbolism Does It Carry? And What Does Its Discovery Reveal About Aztec Culture?
In the heart of Mexico City, amidst the bustling Plaza Mayor, lies a silent sentinel of ancient wisdom and artistry – the Sun Stone. This awe-inspiring artifact, dating back to the reign of Moctezuma II in the early 16th century,…
Uncovering the Past: Rare 1,000-Year-Old Copper Arrowhead Found – Who Crafted It? What Was Its Purpose? How Did It End Up Preserved for So Long? And What Insights Does It Offer into Ancient Societies?
In the realm of archaeology, every discovery has the potential to shed light on our shared human history. Recently, a remarkable find has captured the attention of researchers and enthusiasts alike – a rare, 1,000-year-old copper arrowhead. This ancient artifact…
Unveiling History: The Discovery of an Old Sword in Wisła, Poland – What Secrets Does It Hold? Who Owned It? How Did It End Up There? And What Does Its Discovery Mean for Our Understanding of the Past?
In a remarkable archaeological find that has captured the imagination of historians and enthusiasts alike, an old sword dating back to the 9th-10th century AD has been unearthed in Wisła (Vistula River) near Włocławek, Poland. This discovery sheds light on the rich…
Unveiling the Hidden Riches: Discovering the Treasure Trove of a Notorious Pirate – Who Was the Pirate? Where Was the Treasure Found? What Historical Insights Does It Reveal? And What Challenges Await Those Who Seek to Uncover Its Secrets?
A group of divers said on May 7 that they had found the treasure of the infamous Scottish pirate William Kidd off the coast of Madagascar. Diver Barry Clifford and his team from Massachusetts – USA went to Madagascar and…
Excavation Update: Archaeologists Unearth Massive Cache of Unopened Sarcophagi Dating Back 2,500 Years at Saqqara – What Secrets Do These Ancient Tombs Hold? How Will They Shed Light on Ancient Egyptian Burial Practices? What Mysteries Await Inside? And Why Were They Buried Untouched for Millennia?
Egypt has unearthed another trove of ancient coffins in the vast Saqqara necropolis south of Cairo, announcing the discovery of more than 80 sarcophagi. The Tourism and Antiquities Ministry said in a statement that archaeologists had found the collection of colourful, sealed caskets which were…
End of content
No more pages to load
