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Offering table with applied decoration
Egyptian
Middle Kingdom, Dynasty 12
1991–1783 B.C.
Object Place: Egypt, Said to be from Gebelein
Medium/Technique
Pottery
Dimensions
Length x width x height: 40 x 29 x 4.5 cm (15 3/4 x 11 7/16 x 1 3/4 in.)
Credit Line
Emily Esther Sears Fund
Accession Number03.1604
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
ClassificationsReligious and cult objects
DescriptionThis is an offering table of rough red clay, fired black inside. The edges are pulled up slightly to create a raised rim. On the active surface two purpendicular grooves form a "T"-shaped furrow for libations, leading to a hole in the table's rim for run-off. Applied clay offerings include a bound cow, a leg of beef, and two other food items.
Offering tables various materials (e.g. clay, stone) could be deposited at/in a tomb to simulate real offerings. Such model offerings were intended to magically allow an perpetual sustenance for the benefit of the deceased tomb occupant(s).
Offering tables various materials (e.g. clay, stone) could be deposited at/in a tomb to simulate real offerings. Such model offerings were intended to magically allow an perpetual sustenance for the benefit of the deceased tomb occupant(s).
ProvenanceSaid to be from Gebelein. 1903: purchased for the MFA from Mohamed Mohassib, Luxor, Egypt by Albert M. Lythgoe as part of a group (03.1603-03.1604, A.P.638-A.P.639) for £3. Acquired with funds from the Emily Esther Sears Fund.
(Accession date: January 1, 1903)
(Accession date: January 1, 1903)