Polychrome Egyptian Wooden Statuette — Rower Of A Funerary Boat, Middle Kingdom, Archaeology

Polychrome Egyptian wooden statuette — Rower from a funerary boat, Middle Kingdom, archaeology

Rare Egyptian polychrome wooden statuette depicting a seated rower, an element originally intended to be placed on a model of a funerary boat, likely associated with depictions of solar boats placed in the tombs of high-ranking figures.

The statuette still retains a remarkable portion of its original polychromy, notably the red hue of the male figure’s skin tone, in accordance with the conventions of ancient Egyptian painting—female skin tones were traditionally rendered in lighter or yellowish tones. The figure also wears traditional Egyptian headdress, on which significant traces of black paint remain.

The style and overall treatment of the figure are characteristic of the Egyptian Middle Kingdom, circa 2055–1650 B.C., a particularly important period in the development of polychrome wooden funerary models. These small figures accompanied model boats placed in tombs and symbolically participated in the life and activities of the deceased in the afterlife.

The figure is depicted seated, with the arms now missing. Despite the gaps and ancient losses, the face still retains a very discernible expression, as well as beautiful remnants of the original polychromy. The condition is consistent with the object’s exceptional age.

The statuette comes from an old Burgundian collection, assembled in the early 20th century. It bears a handwritten inventory number in Arabic script on the reverse, attesting to its former presence in the collection.

A particularly interesting piece due to its age, its preserved polychromy, and its funerary context. A very beautiful collector’s item.

Height: 11.5 cm.

Price does not include shipping costs

Police Registry Ref.: A223

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