Collection of the jewelry of Princess Neferuptah National Museum of Civilization museum Cairo Egypt

The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization (NMEC) in Cairo stands as a monumental testament to Egypt's rich history and cultural heritage. Opened officially on April 3, 2021, this museum is the first of its kind in Egypt and the Arab world, showcasing a vast collection of artifacts that span from prehistoric times to modernity. Among its treasures is the exquisite collection of jewelry belonging to Princess Neferuptah, a significant figure from ancient Egyptian history. This article explores the historical context, significance, and artistic value of Princess Neferuptah's jewelry within the broader narrative of Egyptian civilization.

The NMEC is strategically located in Old Cairo and occupies an impressive area of 490,000 square meters. It is designed to present the continuity and evolution of Egyptian civilization through various thematic and chronological exhibitions. The museum houses approximately 50,000 artifacts, including royal mummies, textiles, ceramics, and jewelry, which collectively narrate Egypt's historical journey.

The architectural design of NMEC reflects modern aesthetics while paying homage to Egypt's ancient heritage. Its layout encourages visitors to engage with the exhibits interactively, enhancing their understanding of the artifacts' historical context. The museum’s galleries are organized thematically—covering aspects such as material culture, beliefs, and significant periods in Egyptian history.

Princess Neferuptah was a daughter of Pharaoh Amenemhat III during the 18th Dynasty of the Middle Kingdom (circa 2010-1640 BC, 11th-13th Dynasties). This era is often regarded as a high point in ancient Egyptian civilization, marked by extensive architectural achievements and artistic flourishing. Neferuptah's life and her jewelry provide insights into the royal family's wealth, status, and cultural practices during this golden age.

Neferuptah is often associated with her mother, Queen Tiye, who was one of the most powerful women in ancient Egypt. The prominence of women in royal lineage during this period is noteworthy, as it highlights their influence in political and social spheres. Jewelry from this era not only served decorative purposes but also symbolized wealth and divine protection.

The jewelry collection attributed to Princess Neferuptah is characterized by its intricate designs and use of precious materials such as gold, lapis lazuli, turquoise, and carnelian. Each piece reflects advanced craftsmanship techniques that were prevalent during her time found in Hawara in Fayoum.

The artisanship behind Neferuptah’s jewelry exemplifies the high level of skill possessed by ancient Egyptian jewelers. 

Techniques such as granulation (a method of decorating metal surfaces with tiny spheres), cloisonné (filling compartments with colored enamel), and intricate engraving were commonly used. 

These methods not only enhanced the visual appeal but also imbued each piece with cultural symbolism.

Jewelry in ancient Egypt was more than mere adornment; it played a vital role in religious rituals and was believed to possess protective qualities. For instance, many pieces were designed to ward off evil spirits or attract blessings from deities. The jewelry worn by princesses like Neferuptah would have been especially significant during ceremonial occasions or public appearances.

At NMEC, Princess Neferuptah's jewelry is displayed within a dedicated section that contextualizes these artifacts within her life and times. The exhibition employs modern technology to enhance visitor engagement—interactive displays allow guests to explore the significance of each piece through multimedia presentations.

Neferuptah Beauty of Ptah daughter of the Egyptian king Amenemhat III

Neferuptah is one of the first royal women whose name was written inside a cartouche. Although she never had the title 'king's wife', she must have had a special status; it is possible she was regarded as a future ruler.

A burial for her was prepared in the tomb of her father at Hawara. However, she was not buried there, but in a small pyramid at Hawara. Her tomb was found intact by an Egyptian team under Nagib Farag and Zaky Iskander in 1956 which was located about 2 kilometres from the pyramid of her father and still contained her jewellery, a granite sarcophagus, three silver vases and other objects. 

The granite sarcophagus was inscribed with a short offering formula. Inside the sarcophagus were found the decayed remains of two wooden coffins. The outer one was decorated with inscribed gold foil.

CHEST NECKLACE OF THE EGYPTIAN PRINCESS NEFEROUPTAH : 

The necklace of Princess Neferouptah of the XII Dynasty Currently at the British Museum, was found in the unscathed tomb of Princess Nefarouptah, one of the daughters of Amenemhat III. The tomb was located in Hawara (Egypt) under a tomb - in ruins brick pyramid dated around 1814 A. C. two miles southeast of her father.

These wing-shaped chests or half-moon were called Menat and Usej, it was used as a protector of the soul. They are made up of rows of cornalina pins and semiprecious stones, strung with golden threads.

At the ends is the head of the Horus Falcon, which expresses the shape and character of protective wings those collars had.

They were shown on their neck, with a sense of guidance or safeguarding of the soul, symbolizing a "wall or base," that held the head and protected the chest of those who were wearing it.