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Miniature/model straight-sided cup

Nubian
Napatan Period, reign of Aramatelka
568–555 B.C.
Findspot: Nubia (Sudan), Nuri, Pyramid 9 (Aramatelka), NW foundation deposit

Medium/Technique Pottery
Dimensions Overall: 5.5 x 6.8 cm (2 3/16 x 2 11/16 in.)
Credit Line Harvard University—Boston Museum of Fine Arts Expedition
Accession Number20.4383
NOT ON VIEW

DescriptionThis very small cup is made of a reddish clay fabric. It has straight sides and a plain, unworked rim. The base has been pulled downward to form a very slight foot of sorts. There are no indications of surface treatments.

Very small vessels such as this cup are common in grave, tomb, and temple contexts where they could be presented with offerings or as model offerings in and of themselves. They are thus often called "model vessels." They are most often made of medium to coarse grades of clay, and shaping is often poor and irregular even when formed on a wheel. Frequent irregularities or asymmetry in shaping reflect fast work and mass production. Knife-cut or cord-cut bases are common, though rounded bases occur as well.
ProvenanceFrom Nuri, Pyramid 9 (tomb of Aramatelka), NW foundation deposit. 1916-1918: Excavated by the Harvard University–Boston Museum of Fine Arts Expedition; assigned to the MFA in the division of finds by the government of the Sudan.

(Accession Date: August 18, 2006)