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Ivory inlay fragments of an ostrich

Nubian
Classic Kerma
about 1700–1550 B.C.
Findspot: Nubia (Sudan), Kerma, K1096

Medium/Technique Ivory
Dimensions Height x width: 3.7 x 2.7 cm (1 7/16 x 1 1/16 in.)
Credit Line Harvard University—Boston Museum of Fine Arts Expedition
Accession Number20.1328
NOT ON VIEW
ClassificationsFurniture

DescriptionThis object is a severely fragmented ivory inlay piece likely originally from a wooden funerary bed, degraded remains of which still adhere to the inlay. Remaining iconography suggests it depicts an ostrich with wings raised. Currently four pieces remain, with substantial portions missing.
ProvenanceFrom Kerma, K1096. 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)