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The Ptolemaic era is named after the Macedonian
Greek Ptolemy, the son of Lagus, who was an
older contemporary of Alexander the Great and
one of his best generals. Upon the death of
Alexander, his empire was divided between his
three generals with Ptolemy seizing Egypt as his
realm and proclaiming himself pharaoh in
305/304 BC, thereby inaugurating the dynasty,
called the Ptolemaic in his honor, whose
descendants were to rule Egypt as pharaohs until
the death by suicide of his distant descendant,
Cleopatra VII in 30 BC. Under the artistic
patronage of the Ptolemaic Greeks, Hellenic
traditions merged with the mighty legacy of the
Pharaohs, creating a unique cross-cultural style
that paved the way for the Egypto-Roman style
that followed in its wake.
Beauty and adornment were a vital part of
Ancient Egyptian culture. Dark eyeliner
extending past the eye along the temple is even
today a characteristic symbol of this ancient
civilization. Beyond perfumes and cosmetics,
Ancient Egyptians adorned their bodies with
some of the most magnificent jewelry known to
man. The treasures of King Tut demonstrate the
absolute mastery of the ancient craftsmen,
combining the most luxurious materials and
expert artistry. This tradition of luxury and
adornment continued during the reign of the
Ptolemaic Dynasty. This thin gold bracelet
features two snakeheads that decorate the
terminals. Simple in form, pure in material, such
a piece would have likely once been worn on the
wrist of a member of the Ptolemaic era wealthy
elite.
- (DC.102)
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