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Magic knife (peseshkef) inscribed for King Khufu
Egyptian
Old Kingdom, Dynasty 4, reign of Khufu (Cheops)
2551–2528 B.C.
Findspot: Egypt (Giza, Menkaure Valley Temple), Notes: Egypt (Giza, Menkaure Valley Temple)
Medium/Technique
Flint
Dimensions
Height x width x depth: 18.3 x 2.8 x 0.4 cm (7 3/16 x 1 1/8 x 3/16 in.)
Credit Line
Harvard University—Boston Museum of Fine Arts Expedition
Accession Number11.765
CollectionsAncient Egypt, Nubia and the Near East
ClassificationsReligious and cult objects
DescriptionFine-grained flint wand inscribed with the name of Khufu. Ritual wands were used in the "opening of the mouth" ceremony; this particular object would have been used on the statues of Menkaura in his valley temple.
ProvenanceGiza, Menkaura Valley Temple. 1908, excavated by the Harvard University-Museum of Fine Arts Expedition; 1911, assigned to the MFA by the Egyptian government.
(Accession Date: March 2, 1911)
(Accession Date: March 2, 1911)