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Model of a boat being rowed
Egyptian
Middle Kingdom, late Dynasty 11 – early Dynasty
2010–1961 B.C.
Findspot: Egypt, Deir el-Bersha, Tomb 10, shaft A (Djehutynakht)
Medium/Technique
Wood
Dimensions
Length x width x height: 61 x 11 x 30 cm (24 x 4 5/16 x 11 13/16 in.)
Credit Line
Harvard University—Boston Museum of Fine Arts Expedition
Accession Number21.416
CollectionsAncient Egypt, Nubia and the Near East
ClassificationsModels
DescriptionThis wooden boat model has six seated/kneeling rowers, a man standing at the prow, and a helmsman manning the stanchion for a steering oar at the stern. The skin of all figures is painted reddish brown, and they all wear white kilts and black wigs. Their eyes are detailed in white and black paint. The figures' arms are carved as separate component from the body and attached by pegs. There is little to no modelling of the hands, but rather small holes pierced through likely for attachment of model oars. The helmsman is missing one arm. The boat appears to be plastered and has been covered with white paint. The upper surface also has red line details.
ProvenanceFrom Deir el-Bersha, tomb 10, shaft A (tomb of Djehutynakht). 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)