Golden bracelet from the tomb of Ramesses II, decorated with fine granulation and featuring a double-headed duck with a lapis lazuli body. Egypt, 19th Dynasty, ca. 1279–1213 BC.

Goldworking in Egypt has an exceptionally long tradition, as reflected in this exquisite piece. The bracelet, likely worn by Ramesses II or perhaps one of his favored companions, combines both luxury and masterful craftsmanship.

It is fashioned from solid gold, composed of two sections joined by a hinge on one side and secured with a clasp on the other. The upper portion is adorned with a double-headed duck motif, its body formed from a single piece of lapis lazuli framed in broad gold bands.

The heads and outspread tail of the duck are rendered in gold, embellished with delicate soldered beads and twisted wire, demonstrating the remarkable artistry of the New Kingdom goldsmiths.