Did you know that the Egyptomania of the First Empire originated from various travel accounts published in the late 18th and early 19th centuries?
The arrival of the Neo-Egyptian style
The revival of European interest in ancient Egypt occurred at the end of the 18th century, following various travel accounts, but especially following Bonaparte's Egyptian campaign from 1798 to 1801.
Egyptian expedition under Bonaparte's orders,
COGNIET Léon, 1835
Following the discovery of the tombs thanks to by Napoleon, the the first encyclopaedia devoted solely to Egypt was written, containing numerous descriptions of the culture and traditions of ancient Egypt.
At the time of its publication, it was the largest work in print, and was highly influential in establishing Egyptology: an intellectual discipline, provoking interest in ancient Egypt worldwide. in ancient Egypt throughout the world.
The discovery and importation of numerous jewels and ornaments found in the tombs gave way to the Egyptian Revival .The jewels were inspired by the unearthed treasures and were adorned with scarabs, sphinxes, Pharaohs, palm trees and snakes.
In the composition of these precious jewels are turquoise, garnet, lapis lazuli, coral, and enamel.
The Egyptian Profile
The jewellers were also inspired by the square beaded headdresses of ancient Egypt.
Portrait of a Pharaoh on a Crystal Plate, Gustave BAUGRAND (1897)
Antique Egyptomania ring in gold, diamonds and enamel
The snake
In ancient Egypt the snake was the emblem of the pharaohs and of eternity. Like other animals, which enter and leave the earth, the snake is a symbol of rebirth.
Antique gold, enamel, pearl and diamond snake necklace
The beetle
The scarab in ancient Egypt is the emblem of royal power: it is the symbol of rebirth and a guide to immortality.
Scarab and lotus ring by Renée Lalique, 1897
Particularly popular, you can even see real ones set in jewellery, like this incredible comb.
Today it is still considered a good luck charm, reincarnating reincarnating strength, courage and luck.
comb-diademe-egyptomania-scarabee: earrings-ancient-sleepers-email