Faience (tin-glazed pottery) was used for decorative purposes throughout the 3,000 year rule of the Egyptian pharaohs. Initially, beads were made for jewelry and ornate nets to be worn over women’s linen dresses. As of 1077 B.C., beadwork nets (pictured right), thought to have protective powers, were sewn onto the outer wrappings of mummies. Beaded amulets provided additional protection to the body. At first glance this winged scarab appears to be stitch-work but a closer look reveals that the pattern is made of faience beads.
