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Inlay in the form of an animal skin (?)
Nubian
Classic Kerma
Early–about 2400–1550 B.C.
Findspot: Nubia (Sudan), Kerma, K449
Medium/Technique
Ivory
Dimensions
Height x width x depth: 3.8 x 2.1 x 0.3 cm (1 1/2 x 13/16 x 1/8 in.)
Credit Line
Harvard University—Boston Museum of Fine Arts Expedition
Accession Number20.1496a-d
NOT ON VIEW
CollectionsAncient Egypt, Nubia and the Near East
ClassificationsFurniture
DescriptionThese four ornamental inlay pieces would have adorned a wooden fixture such as a funerary bed. They are carved in a symmetrical, stylized motif that may depict a turtle, frog, or animal skin. The ivory has discolored slightly in some areas of various pieces, and remnants of adhesive mud used for attaching the inlays still adheres to some surfaces. All are in very good condition. For similar inlays from the same tomb see also object 20.1497a-j.
ProvenanceFrom Kerma, K449. March 1914: excavated by the Harvard University–Boston Museum of Fine Arts Expedition; assigned to the MFA in the division of finds by the government of Sudan.
(Accession Date: March 1, 1920)
(Accession Date: March 1, 1920)