The Power and Symbolism of the Usekh Collar in Ancient Egypt

Usekh means “broad” in ancient Egyptian. The usekh necklace was worn by the nobility in Ancient Egypt as a talisman associated with Hathor.

It consisted of two flat, semicircular closures forming a large half-moon. The weaving typically comprised a network of multi-colored pearls made from faience, hard stone, or precious metal.

Frequently, the outer edge was adorned with pendants. A counterweight placed on the wearer’s back helped balance this heavy necklace.

Since the Middle Kingdom, it was also positioned on the chests of mummies, depicted on cardboard, as a protective measure, showcasing various symbols such as falcon heads, spread-winged vultures, cobras, garlands, or polychrome plant motifs, aiding in success in Osiris’ underworld.

From the Late Period of ancient Egypt, in the Book of the Dead, formulas 157 and 158 outlined the necessary rituals during funerals to place the usekh as protection for the deceased.

It appears that the origin of this ornament can be traced back to an ancient plant necklace consisting of nine rows of small plants, possibly lotuses or another fragrant flower. When replicated by goldsmiths, it was crafted in gold, as specified in texts, adorned with precious stones and lapis lazuli.

The Usekh collar was at times referred to as the “garland of Atum,” with its nine rows being described in various ways: “the effigy of the ennead,” “Atum reunited with his children,” or “garland of khepri.”

All these names are associated with the sun, endowing the necklace with heightened significance and power, combining the forces of Hathor, Atum, and those of Heliopolis.

Broad collar of Senebtisi, 1850–1775 BC; faience, gold, carnelian and turquoise; Metropolitan Museum of ArtUsekh Collar of Princess NeferuptahUsekh Collar of Queen Ahhotep I

Bust of Nefertiti wearing a Usekh Collar

The Intact Tomb of the Mysterious Wah Exploring the Significant Protection of the Eye of Horus in Ancient Egyptian Mythology