Both women and men in Ancient Egypt donned wigs. The finest wigs were made of human hair although some were also made from plant material. This wig from the Third Intermediate Period belonged to Nauny, who was a singer for the cult of Amun-Re. Amun-Re was a composite god combining the power of the sun with the elusive nature of deities and was a nationally revered figure.

Nauny was buried with her wig, ensuring her beauty in death and the afterlife. Several servant shabtis were also included in her burial indicating her high status in the cult. In fact, historians believe she may have been the daughter of Painedjem I, the High Priest of Amun.

Wig, Nauny