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Jackal-headed canopic jar
Egyptian
Late Period–Hellenistic Period (Ptolemaic Dynast
664–30 B.C.
Findspot: Egypt, Giza, Isis Temple, Pit of Room P
Medium/Technique
Travertine (Egyptian alabaster)
Dimensions
Height x diameter: 24.3 x 14.8 cm (9 9/16 x 5 13/16 in.)
Credit Line
Harvard University—Boston Museum of Fine Arts Expedition
Accession Number26.898
NOT ON VIEW
CollectionsAncient Egypt, Nubia and the Near East
ClassificationsTomb equipment – Canopics and canopic boxes
DescriptionThis canopic jar is carved of dark yellow-brown travertine (Egyptian alabaster) with horizontal white veining. It exhibits generally wide proportions with convex, slightly flaring sides that curve inward to a wide mouth. Its lid is carved of a compact, also horizontally veined travertine of lighter color in the form of the head of a jackal. This figure represents Duamutef, one of the Four Sons of Horus, protectors of the viscera of the deceased. The stone has not been carved away between the jackal's ears, leaving an overall blocked form. Both jar and lid are well polished.
This jar is part of a complete (4) set comprised of objects 26.895-26.898.
This jar is part of a complete (4) set comprised of objects 26.895-26.898.
ProvenanceFrom Giza, Isis temple, pit in room P.1926: 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: January 1, 1926)
(Accession Date: January 1, 1926)