I am excited to announce the release of my Egyptian Pectoral Collection, a series that has been a long time in the making. This collection is especially meaningful to me, as it’s inspired by a deep fascination with the rich symbolism and intricate craftsmanship of ancient Egyptian jewellery.
My journey with this collection began many years ago when I first encountered images in a book of some of the jewellery from King Tutankhamun's Tomb. I was immediately captivated by the fine details and the wealth of symbolic meaning in each piece. The artistry and depth of meaning of the jewellery really spoke to me.
Later, during my travels in Egypt, I was fortunate enough to see some of these ancient treasures up close at the Egyptian Museum. To stand in front of these magnificent pieces was an amazing experience, and it only deepened my connection to the history and artistry of this ancient civilization. Creating a collection based on these stunning pectorals from King Tutankhamun's tomb has truly been a dream come true.
~ Tutankhamun’s Solar Boat Pectoral ~
The Solar Boat Pectoral is a very symbolically rich piece of jewellery. The central motif depicts the rising of the sun, a powerful image in Egyptian mythology. The scarab beetle, an ancient symbol associated with the sun, represents the daily journey of the sun across the heavens. In my version, the golden scarab beetle is carefully crafted, holding a solar disk in its front legs, which is set with a red garnet.
Flanking the scarab are two baboons, which are frequently associated with the rising sun. In Egyptian mythology, Thoth, the god of wisdom and the moon, is often represented in the form of a baboon, symbolising both the underworld and the celestial realms. The baboons’ heads are adorned with the lunar disk and crescent, creating a harmonious balance between solar and lunar energies.
This piece is a powerful representation of both night and day, of the underworld and the celestial realm. The scarab embodies the solar cycle, while the baboons, with their connection to Thoth, represent the cycles of the moon. This duality brings a sense of balance and interconnection, as both the sun and the moon play integral roles in the world of the ancient Egyptians.