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Knife with handle
Egyptian
Early Dynastic Period, Dynasty 1–2
2960–2649 B.C.
Medium/Technique
Flint
Dimensions
Length: 15.8 cm (6 1/4 in.)
Credit Line
Emily Esther Sears Fund
Accession Number04.1857
NOT ON VIEW
CollectionsAncient Egypt, Nubia and the Near East
ClassificationsTools and equipment – Knives, blades, scrapers
DescriptionThis crudely worked knife of light beige-colored flint fashioned has a narrow handle. It exhibits rough, bifacial retouching and has one convex edge and one slightly concave edte. Modern graffitti has been applied to the stone in blue ink in the form of an ankh-sign (the ancient Egyptian hieroglyphic symbol for "life").
ProvenanceSaid to be from Sheikh Ali (Abadiya). 1904: Purchased for the MFA in Qena, Egypt from Ghirgas by Albert M. Lythgoe as part of a group ( 04.1855-04.1859) for £1. Acquired with funds from the Emily Esther Sears Fund. (Accession date: January 1, 1904)