This blue faience ankh (the hieroglyphic sign for “life”) was found in the tomb of Thutmose IV in the Valley of the Kings (KV 43). A bright blue glazed surface is detailed with a deep violet manganese pigment. The arms of the ankh are detailed to resemble rope. The base carries a long-stemmed lotus flower, above which (at roughly the center of the piece) is the cartouche of the Thutmose IV.
Date: New Kingdom, Dynasty 18, reign of Thutmose IV
1400–1390 B.C.
MFA Boston
