Advanced Search 
Ivory inlay of a vulture
Nubian
Classic Kerma
about 1700–1550 B.C.
Findspot: Nubia (Sudan), Kerma, K439
Medium/Technique
Ivory
Dimensions
Height x width x depth: 15 x 5 x 0.3 cm (5 7/8 x 1 15/16 x 1/8 in.)
Credit Line
Harvard University—Boston Museum of Fine Arts Expedition
Accession Number20.1529
NOT ON VIEW
CollectionsAncient Egypt, Nubia and the Near East
ClassificationsFurniture
DescriptionThis ivory inlay piece has been carved in the shape of a vulture with outstretched wings. Such inlays often adorned wooden fixtures such as funerary beds. Incised lines have been used to indicate feather pattern and body details. The inlay is broken into several fragments, but is nearly complete. Missing portions include the head and the leg(s), and wing tips.
ProvenanceFrom Kerma , tomb K439. January 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)