Elephant ivory carved handle of a ceremonials knife

Elephant ivory carved handle of a ceremonials knife dated to the end of the pre-dynastic period. Ivory handles such as this were attached to flint knives or daggers. On the outward side (above) are three rows of animals, (1) storks and giraffe (2) elephant standing on two intertwined serpent followed by three Hippos and (3) wild bulls and wild pig. These animals were indigenous to Egypt during this period.

On the reverse of side of the handle (below) was a protruding piece of ivory to attach the knife to a belt. This side, even though it would not normally have been visible, was also heavily carved with animal figures.



http://www.ancient-egypt.co.uk/metropolitan/pages/Predynastic