The design for this kit is based on the gold counterpoise of a pectoral (chest ornament) belonging to Tutankhamun. It depicts Tutankhamun seated on a throne, holding the crook (the symbol of a ruler), having been presented with the ankh (the symbol of life) by the winged goddess Maat. Maat was the goddess of truth, law and world order, and she is always portrayed wearing a feather, probably ostrich, on her head. The necklace appears to depict the king as an earthly ruler, indicating that it was probably made for his coronation and was not part of his funerary assemblage. This object is housed in the Museum of Cairo, Cairo, Egypt.

'Tutankhamun and Maat' Counted Cross Stitch Kit

The design for this kit is based on the gold counterpoise of a pectoral (chest ornament) belonging to Tutankhamun. This design features a scarab beetle flanked by two baboons. The scarab, due to its habit of rolling a ball of dung, is often represented holding a solar disc above its head. In its back claws it holds the shen ring, the symbol for eternity and protection. A pair of baboons, according to Egyptian mythology, greeted the rising sun each morning, so again there is an association with solar symbolism. They are also often associated with the god Thoth, the god of writing, scribes and the moon, the latter possibly explaining the lunar discs on the heads of the baboons. The baboons and the scarab are seated on the royal barque, transport of the gods, with was sceptres, symbol of power, flanking the scene. The pectoral is now housed in the Museum of Cairo, Cairo, Egypt.

'Baboons and Scarab' Counted Cross Stitch Kit

Each design is worked on 14 count Aida fabric and the worked area measures 8½ x 7 ins (22 x 18cm).

The counted cross stitch kit contains threads (floss), fabric, needle, chart and instructions. Or try our pattern pack leaving you free to vary the fabric material, count or even colour.