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Stele of Sheditef
Egyptian
First Intermediate Period, Dynasty 7–11
2143–1991 B.C.
Findspot: Egypt, Mesheikh, Tomb 102
Medium/Technique
Limestone
Dimensions
Overall: 73 x 48 x 10 cm, 52.2 kg (28 3/4 x 18 7/8 x 3 15/16 in., 115 lb.)
Credit Line
Harvard University—Boston Museum of Fine Arts Expedition
Accession Number12.1477
OUT ON LOAN
On display at Houston Museum of Natural Science, TX, May 17, 2013 – December 31, 2024
On display at Houston Museum of Natural Science, TX, May 17, 2013 – December 31, 2024
CollectionsAncient Egypt, Nubia and the Near East
ClassificationsArchitectural elements – Stele
DescriptionThis limestone slab from the tomb of Sheditef depicts the tomb owner and his wife holding hands and facing to the right. There is a small male figure between them, probably their son. Another small figure stands before Sheditef, offering him a drink. The inscription above the figures contains an offerng formula. The entire scene is enclosed by a border on three sides. Both the scene and the inscription are incised, and much of the red, yellow, and black paint remains.
ProvenanceFrom Mesheikh, tomb 102. Excavated by the Harvard University-Boston Museum of Fine Arts Expedition; 1912: assigned to the MFA by the government of Egypt.
(Accession Date: December 5, 1912)
(Accession Date: December 5, 1912)