Gold mining has a long history in Egypt, as ancient artifacts attest. This gold and lapis lazuli bracelet was probably worn by Ramesses II (reign. c.1279-1213 BC) or one of his favorites.
The solid gold bangle is composed of two parts, linked on one side by a hinge and on the other by a clasp. The broader upper part of the bracelet is decorated with a double-headed duck. Its body consist of a large chunk of lapis lazuli framed by broad bands of gold plate. The two heads and the duck´s spread out tail were made of gold decorated with small soldered beads and wire.
From Bubastis (“Tell-Basta”). Now in the Egyptian Museum, Cairo.
Photography by: O. Louis Mazzatenta / National Geographic
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