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Tablet for seven oils
Egyptian
Old Kingdom, Dynasty 5
2500–2350 B.C.
Findspot: Egypt, Giza, Tomb G 4733 E
Medium/Technique
Travertine (Egyptian alabaster)
Dimensions
Height: 2.2 cm; width: 9.2 cm; length: 19.5 cm
Credit Line
Harvard University—Boston Museum of Fine Arts Expedition
Accession Number24.599
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
DescriptionTablet divided into seven sections by incised lines, each labeled with a hieroglyphic text naming one of the sacred oils used in annointing the body of the deceased. A circular depression in each compartment served as a recepticle for the oil.
ProvenanceFrom Giza, tomb G 4733 E. 1914: excavated by the Harvard University-Museum of Fine Arts Expedition; 1924: assigned to the MFA by the government of Egypt, 1924.