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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: 79 x 31 x 25 cm (31 1/8 x 12 3/16 x 9 13/16 in.)
Credit Line Harvard University—Boston Museum of Fine Arts Expedition
Accession Number21.417
ClassificationsModels

DescriptionThe following description reflects this object’s current condition and state of assembly, which were achieved after conservation. Photography that appears with this record may show the object prior to changes made during conservation.

This wooden boat model has six seated/kneeling rowers manning oars, a man standing at the prow, and a helmsman manning the stanchion of 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 for attachment of the oars. The boat appears to be plastered and has been covered with white paint. The upper surface also has red line details that indicate various divisions and beams of the boat's interior.
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)