Advanced Search 
"Opening of the Mouth" cup
Egyptian
Old Kingdom, Dynasty 6, reign of Neferkara Pepy II
2246–2152 B.C.
Findspot: Egypt, Giza, Tomb of Impy, G 2381 A
Medium/Technique
Basalt
Dimensions
Height x diameter: 3.5 x 3.6 cm (1 3/8 x 1 7/16 in.)
Credit Line
Harvard University—Boston Museum of Fine Arts Expedition
Accession Number13.3260
CollectionsAncient Egypt, Nubia and the Near East
ClassificationsVessels
DescriptionAn important part of the Egyptian funeral was a ritual known as the "Opening of the Mouth", which was meant to animate the spirit of the deceased. This model cup was part of the set of magical implements used in the ceremony.
ProvenanceFrom Giza, G 2381 A (tomb of Impy). 1912: 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: December 4, 1913)
(Accession date: December 4, 1913)