19th Century Wooden Gilt Shabti on Granite Base - Grand Tour Egyptian Revival Figure

19th century wooden gilt Shabti with rubbed gilding, strong presence and Grand Tour appeal, mounted on a later granite base. Why We Love This … This Shabti has extraordinary presence - tall, serene, and beautifully timeworn. The rubbed gilding gives it a soft, ancient glow, while the carved form retains that unmistakable Egyptian elegance so admired during the Grand Tour era. It’s sculptural, atmospheric, and full of quiet gravitas. At a Glance – Appeal, Desirability & Collectibility • Date: 19th Century • Origin: France or Egypt • Style: Egyptian Revival / Grand Tour • Materials:   • Carved wood   • Gilt surface with rubbed underprint   • Later granite base • Dimensions:   • H: 50cm (19.7") | W: 12.5cm (4.9") | D: 12.5cm (4.9")  •   • Figure without base: 47cm (18.5") x 15cm (5.9") x 8cm (3.1") • Condition:   • Good antique condition   • Gilt surface with attractive rubbed wear   • Later granite base   • Age‑related marks consistent with 19th‑century examples • Notable Details:   • Tall, elegant proportions   • Atmospheric rubbed gilding   • Strong sculptural silhouette • Decorative Appeal:   • A striking focal point for consoles, bookcases, or curated shelves - dramatic yet refined • Versatility:   • Perfect for interiors that embrace eclectic, classical, or global influences • Collectibility:   • Grand Tour Egyptian Revival pieces remain highly sought after for their historic charm and decorative impact • Delivery is not included - please use the Delivery Quote tab prior to purchase Heritage, History & Craftsmanship This 19th‑century wooden Shabti is a wonderful example of the Egyptian Revival taste that flourished during the Grand Tour period. Carved in wood and finished in gilt, the figure has developed a beautifully rubbed surface, revealing the underprint and giving it a soft, time‑worn luminosity. Mounted on a later granite base, the Shabti has a commanding presence. Its elongated form, stylised features, and gilded finish echo the ancient funerary figures that inspired European collectors and travellers throughout the 18th and 19th centuries. Pieces like this were prized souvenirs - evocative, exotic, and rich with cultural symbolism. Social History During the 19th century, Egyptology captured the European imagination. Travellers returning from the Grand Tour brought back objects inspired by ancient civilisations, and artisans across France and Egypt produced decorative pieces in the Egyptian Revival style. Shabti figures - originally placed in tombs as attendants for the afterlife - became popular motifs, admired for their serene forms and symbolic meaning. Condition Report • Good antique condition • Gilt surface with rubbed wear • Later granite base • Age‑related marks consistent with 19th‑century examples • Stable and ready for display Provenance • 19th Century • France or Egypt • Grand Tour / Egyptian Revival tradition Terminology by Style Shabti (Ushabti): Funerary figures from ancient Egypt, symbolically placed in tombs to serve the deceased in the afterlife. Egyptian Revival: A decorative style inspired by ancient Egyptian art, popular in Europe during the 18th and 19th centuries. Grand Tour: A cultural journey undertaken by European travellers, who often collected classical and exotic objects. Rubbed Gilding: A naturally worn gilt surface revealing the underlayer, prized for its soft, atmospheric patina. Granite Base: A later addition providing stability and enhancing the sculptural presence of the figure. Styling Suggestions • Display on a console or mantel as a dramatic sculptural accent • Pair with books, stoneware, or classical fragments • Use in a study or library for a scholarly, collected look • Combine with other global or archaeological pieces for layered storytelling Explore Every Facet These images form an essential part of the condition report and are intended to provide complete transparency and confidence in your purchase • Gilt surface and rubbed patina • Carved details • Granite base • Profile and silhouette • Overall proportions Sustainable Style Thank you for considering this antique Shabti - a choice that is both culturally and environmentally responsible … in every sense, the most sustainable item is the one that endures. Purchase with Confidence White’s Antiques carefully selects every item for authenticity, character, craftsmanship, and decorative presence - ensuring that each piece carries both aesthetic and historic value. Every item is described and photographed with care, offering complete transparency and confidence in your purchase. We are an established and trusted resource for both trade and private collectors. You are warmly invited to visit our Showroom at The Vinery, Poling, West Sussex, to experience our curated collections firsthand, explore the stories behind each piece, and appreciate these timeless furnishings in person. Delivery & Collection Information • Delivery is not included - please use the Delivery Quote tab prior to purchase • Collection welcome from our Sussex showroom • Local delivery available • Nationwide couriers arranged on request