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Bead Necklace with Figural Pendant Beads and Figure of Bes as Central Pendant

Culture Egyptian
Title Bead Necklace with Figural Pendant Beads and Figure of Bes as Central Pendant
Date 300–100 BCE
Medium Glass and faience
Dimensions Overall: 16 5/16 in. (41.5 cm)
Weight: 0.02 lb.
Credit Line Burton Y. Berry Collection, Eskenazi Museum of Art, Indiana University
Accession Number 69.107.9A

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About this Work

Bes is a household god who was painted on the walls of homes and is depicted on amulets and other objects used in daily life, such as beds and mirrors. He is known as a protector of women, especially during childbirth, and is associated with music and dance. He is dwarf-like in his appearance and often appears as a small, bent figure with a large head. His head alone is frequently presented on amulets, as in the central amulet on this necklace. The full-faced orientation of the head is typical of images intended to ward off evil.


Provenance research is ongoing for this and many other items in the Eskenazi Museum of Art permanent collection. For more information about the provenance of this artwork, please contact the department curator with specific questions.

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"Bead Necklace with Figural Pendant Beads and Figure of Bes as Central Pendant | Collections Online." Collections Online. Sidney and Lois Eskenazi Museum of Art, Indiana University, 2024. https://artmuseum.indiana.edu/collections-online/browse/object.php?number=69.107.9A