Advanced Search
Advanced Search

Model boat

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

Medium/Technique Wood
Dimensions Length x width x height: 63 x 10 x 18 cm (24 13/16 x 3 15/16 x 7 1/16 in.)
Credit Line Harvard University—Boston Museum of Fine Arts Expedition
Accession Number21.12491
NOT ON VIEW
ClassificationsModels

DescriptionThe following description reflects this object’s current condition and state of assembly, which were achieved after conservation. Photography that appears with this record may show the object prior to changes made during conservation.

This set of items is comprised of pieces from a wooden tomb model of a boat and its crew. Two figures remain from an original crew that most likely included rowers, a helmsman and a lookout. The figures are schematically carved with the skin painted reddish-brown and wearing black wigs and white kilts. One wooden figure remains attached to the boat in a kneeling position and placed as the helmsman at the stern of the boat, facing the bow. A striding figure has been re-attached to the bow of the boat, in the position of the lookout.

The hull of the model boat and deck are covered with white painted stucco with red border and eight red stripes across deck. Fifteen dowel holes remain in the deck.
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: March 1, 1921)