A bold, sculptural pendant: an abstract seated figure cut from cast metal in open-work lines, in the spirit of Egyptian hieroglyph forms. The figure has a long curved headdress, a round “eye” set in the head, a looping arm and a bent leg, all drawn with confident, flowing outlines and open spaces.

The pendant measures 48mm x 21mm. It hangs from a 23-inch silver-tone snake-style chain with a spring-ring clasp. The pendant has a soft matte grey finish with a slightly cast, hand-finished texture.

SIGNATURE AND MARKS

The pendant is hand-signed. A scratched, incised signature on the face reads like “AVE” or “AXE” to me, and there is more tiny stamped text along the right edge that is too worn to read in my photos. I am not attributing the piece to any maker. The chain shows no marks that I could see.

The metal is unmarked and untested. It has the look and weight of cast pewter or white metal, but I have not confirmed this, so please do not assume sterling.

ABOUT THE DESIGN

Egyptian motifs have inspired jewelry since the 1800s. Public fascination peaked after Howard Carter opened Tutankhamun’s tomb in 1922, and again during the 1970s, when the “Treasures of Tutankhamun” tour toured the US and spurred a new wave of Egyptian-inspired jewelry. This piece takes the idea in a modernist direction, turning the ancient hieroglyphic figure into a loose, abstract line drawing. That style was popular in 1960s and 1970s studio and craft jewelry.

CONDITION

Pre-owned vintage condition with honest wear:

• Light surface scratches and minor handling marks, including a few on the leg and foot area.
• A matte oxidized finish with a few small pits and cast texture, which looks original.
• The round “eye” ball moves slightly, which looks intentional (I have not confirmed whether it is a captured bead or part of the casting).
• The chain is intact and the clasp works. The chain is bright and clean.
• No repairs found, no breaks.

Please review all photos.