Ancient Egyptian Pectoral Necklace
J. Crew Statement Necklace
Similarities: Deep indigo and red/amber colors, gold metal, and large adornment. Both are intended to show status, convey a sense of wealth, and draw the viewer's eye.
Differences: The largest difference is availability. In ancient Egypt, the pectoral necklace would have been priceless; a gem reserved for Pharaohs. Now, anyone with about $140 bucks can purchase the J. Crew jewels. The craftsmanship of the J. Crew necklace is higher quality, though the skill required to craft the Egyptian Pectoral trumps all.
Background info: In the 19th and early 20th century, a fascination with Egypt and Middle-Eastern culture and art developed in Europe and America, fueled by grandiose discoveries like the tomb of Tutankhamen by Howard Carter. News of this was the first real global exposure for some people. (Purcell, K. 2011)
Questions for consideration:
1. Which necklace do you prefer, and why?
2. In terms of culture, what do you think an ancient Egyptian would say about the J. Crew necklace? Would it seem familiar to them?
3. What other cultural influences can you see in the J. Crew necklace? For example, is there a design element you find similar to a culture other than the ancient Egyptians?
Age: 18
ReplyDeleteGender: female
I prefer the J. Crew necklace because it would go with more things I have in my closet. However, I really to like the color scheme and the uniqueness of the Egyptian necklace. They are both necklaces that I would wear. I think they both have a similar design. The J. Crew necklace has a much more modern flare, but it still illustrates the ancient Egyptian design. I think the J. Crew necklace would be a style that Egyptian royalty would wear. The J. Crew necklace is also influenced by European culture with the size and color of the jewels.
Age: 48
ReplyDeleteGender: Female
1. I prefer J. Crew's version with it's more feminine lines and color choices. The Egyptian version is rather bulky and the eye has difficulty following the flow of the design.
2. I think Egyptians would be thrilled to be the first to wear something with a little more refinement. It probably would be perceived as a status symbol to be adorned with large jewels crafted in a style reminiscent of their cultural style, yet fresh and new. Just like women of today strive to have that "one of a kind" style that sets them apart.
3. The metal work and heavy chain reflect some of the heavy elements and large cut stones seen in the Czech and English crown jewels. I'll bet even the Romanov women wore gorgeous pieces very similar to this one
.