Clapper

Unknown

ca. 1900–1640 B.C. · Ivory · Egyptian Art

Clappers are among the earliest percussion instruments in ancient Egypt. This clapper represents a forearm and a hand while following the curved shape of the ivory tusk it was carved from. A bracelet is indicated by incised lines. Flanking the bracelet are roundel ornaments that are typical of Middle Kingdom clappers, but their significance is unclear. The striking side of the clapper is flat and undecorated, as is usually the case.

Artist

Unknown

Date

ca. 1900–1640 B.C.

Medium

Ivory

Department

Egyptian Art

Credit line

Rogers Fund and Edward S. Harkness Gift, 1922