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Fragments of model flowers and plants

Egyptian
Middle Kingdom, late Dynasty 11 – early Dynasty 12
2010–1961 B.C.
Findspot: Egypt, Deir el-Bersha, Tomb 10, shaft A (Djehutynakht)

Medium/Technique Cartonnage
Credit Line Harvard University—Boston Museum of Fine Arts Expedition
Accession Number21.16707.32
NOT ON VIEW
ClassificationsTomb equipmentModels

DescriptionThis is one piece from a group of approximately 50 fragments of cartonnage leaves, petals, and stems of model flowers and plants. Traces of painted plaster remain on some fragments, while on many it has worn away, leaving only the underlying linen base.

This cartonnage is an irregular shape although it is most likely a leaf with many pieces missing. It is mostly covered in dark plaster with patches of lighter color visible underneath. The edges of the linen are frayed.

Sets of cartonnage models of food, plants, offerings, and other objects are known from other contemporary burial assemblages, but they are not especially common.
ProvenanceFrom Deir el-Bersha, tomb 10, shaft A (tomb of Djehutynakht). May 1915: excavated by the Harvard University–Boston Museum of Fine Arts Expedition; assigned to the MFA in the division of finds by the government of Egypt. (Accession Date: June 5, 2009)