Bracelet (Bangle) Fragment

Unknown

ca. 3100–2649 B.C. · Flint · Egyptian Art

Flint bangles such as this one are mainly found in burials. The deceased often wore multiple bangles together, on one or both forearms. These items were in use for a relatively short time, only during the Early Dynastic period, and most examples date specifically to the First Dynasty. They were made through a combination of flaking and grinding. Flint bangles were extremely difficult to produce and demonstrate the exceptionally high degree of expertise achieved by Egypt’s flint knappers. They also show that Ancient Egyptians used flint for personal adornment and display, not just to make implements needed for utilitarian and subsistence purposes.

Artist

Unknown

Date

ca. 3100–2649 B.C.

Medium

Flint

Department

Egyptian Art

Credit line

Gift of the Egypt Exploration Fund, 1900