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Model scene of weavers
Egyptian
Middle Kingdom, late Dynasty 11 or early Dynasty
2061–1926 B.C.
Findspot: Egypt, Deir el-Bersha, Tomb 10 (Djehutynakht), Shaft A
Medium/Technique
Wood
Dimensions
Height x width: 21.5 x 21.5 cm (8 7/16 x 8 7/16 in.)
Credit Line
Harvard University—Boston Museum of Fine Arts Expedition
Accession Number21.414
NOT ON VIEW
CollectionsAncient Egypt, Nubia and the Near East
ClassificationsModels
DescriptionThis wooden model scene depicts a group of weavers. There are four figures attached to a wooden base. Three of the figures are kneeling and one is standing. They all wear white kilts and short, bag-like wigs painted black. Their skin is painted a drab yellow, suggesting they are to be taken as female. The eyes are detailed in black and white. Arms are carved as separate components from the body and are attached by pegs. The standing figure's hands are indicated merely by holds in the forepart of the arms, in this case to hold stick-like needles for weaving flax fibers that would likely be supplied by the kneeling figure immediately behind her into thread. Figures are attached to the base by thin pegs. The rear figures likely work at a loom, which was probably included in the scene and attached to the base by some or all of the remaining two pegs and one empty hole in the base.
ProvenanceFrom Deir el-Bersha, tomb of Djehutynakht, tomb 10, shaft A. May 1915: 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: March 1, 1921)