Post by Tamrin on Oct 7, 2008 6:16:34 GMT 10
This “apron” was item 76 in the catalogue of the Gold of the Pharaohs exhibition (1988 / 1989), provided by the Egyptian Antiquities Organisation (1988 / 1989). It is from the burial of Shoshenq II and is dissimilar to masonic aprons. The description on page 123 reads:
76
BELT AND APRON FRAME
Electrum, red and blue paste
Length: Belt 1.1m Apron 40cm
JE 72168
This rarely preserved item of apparel was found upon the king’s body. It comprises a belt of electrum decorated with a chequer motif which fastens at the rear, with an attached apron frame at the front, also in electrum. The bottom of latter carries a stylised floral design while the sides are inlaid alternatively with small squares of red and blue paste. The apron frame originally supported a netting decorated with gold beads and cloisonné floral motifs. A small gold amulet was originally attached to the belt, depicting a swallow with the sign shen on its back, the combination of which may be read “great circle”.
The details of this kilt differ slightly from those shown worn by the kings in reliefs and upon statuary, which may indicate some mortuary connection for this example. It resembles the apron worn by the figure on the exterior of the lid of Merenptah’s sarcophagus lid, reused by Psusennes I, and also those shown in the frieze of objects depicted on the inside of Middle Kingdom coffins.
BELT AND APRON FRAME
Electrum, red and blue paste
Length: Belt 1.1m Apron 40cm
JE 72168
This rarely preserved item of apparel was found upon the king’s body. It comprises a belt of electrum decorated with a chequer motif which fastens at the rear, with an attached apron frame at the front, also in electrum. The bottom of latter carries a stylised floral design while the sides are inlaid alternatively with small squares of red and blue paste. The apron frame originally supported a netting decorated with gold beads and cloisonné floral motifs. A small gold amulet was originally attached to the belt, depicting a swallow with the sign shen on its back, the combination of which may be read “great circle”.
The details of this kilt differ slightly from those shown worn by the kings in reliefs and upon statuary, which may indicate some mortuary connection for this example. It resembles the apron worn by the figure on the exterior of the lid of Merenptah’s sarcophagus lid, reused by Psusennes I, and also those shown in the frieze of objects depicted on the inside of Middle Kingdom coffins.
