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Mirror with handle shaped as standard
Egyptian
Middle Kingdom, Dynasty 11–13
2061–1640 B.C.
Medium/Technique
Copper alloy; wood
Dimensions
Height x width x depth: 25.5 x 16 x 2 cm (10 1/16 x 6 5/16 x 13/16 in.)
Credit Line
Hay Collection—Gift of C. Granville Way
Accession Number72.4470
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
ClassificationsTools and equipment – Cosmetic and medical
DescriptionThis disk-shaped mirror of copper alloy has been mounted on a wooden handle shaped to represent a standard. The main handle of the standard has been decorated with incised lines, vertical at the top and horizontal below. The horizontal beam of the standard carries a small hieroglyphic inscription in black paint. Some discoloration due to bronze disease is evident on the mirror, and its original polish is gone.
ProvenanceBy 1836: Robert Hay Collection, Linplum, Scotland; 1863: to his son, Robert James Alexander Hay; 1868-1872: Way Collection, Boston (purchased by Samuel A. Way through London dealers Rollin and Feuardent, 27 Haymarket); 1872: given to the MFA by Samuel's son, C. Granville Way.
(Accession Date: June 28, 1872)
(Accession Date: June 28, 1872)