The origins and functions of bead coverings are poorly understood. Sir Wallis Budge argued that mummy bead coverings served as an affordable replacement for the elaborately painted, inner boards and cartonnage masks that characterize some earlier, finer sarcophagi. However, Egypt was enjoying relative prosperity when this practice became common, and the intricate work that went into many of these coverings doesn't suggest that much money would have been saved by using them. Lacovar and Trope have suggested that they derive from the costumes worn by goddesses, although they are found on mummies of both sexes. These are interesting items, and among the most affordable Egyptian masks available.

AGE: Late Period through Ptolemaic Period, 712-32 B.C.

CONDITION: Restrung on modern string, as are all necklaces, masks, and nets of this sort -- the original weaving almost NEVER survives, despite what some dealers will tell you. Composed of genuine ancient beads and presented in a small frame.