Ancient Egypt, Middle Kingdom, 11th to 13th Dynasty, ca. 2130 to 1649 BCE. A hand-carved wooden head rest that is composed of a broad foot with a slender, projecting neck as well as a detachable, crescent-shaped head platform. Headrests were essential parts of the Egyptian sleeping area. Headrests of this type (constructed from two or more separate sections) are believed to have had several functions. The Egyptians normally slept on their sides and the curved upper section held the head above the bed. At their most prosaic, the headrests were frequently buried with the mummy providing a place to rest the deceased's head and were found inside the coffin. However, the importance of having the head elevated was integral with their religious practices as it was intended to aid in resurrection mimicking the sun god rising above the horizon and playing a part in the "Opening of the Mouth" ceremony described in the Book of the Dead (or Book of Going Forth by Day). Lucite display stand for photography purposes only. Size: 8.1" W x 8.125" H (20.6 cm x 20.6 cm)
For another example of a Middle Kingdom headrest, please see The Metropolitan Museum of Art, accession number 19.3.46
Provenance: private J.H. collection, Beaverton, Oregon, USA, acquired between 2016 and 2017; ex-Relics of the Nile, Lexington, Kentucky, USA, Acquired before 2011
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#149726
Condition
Headrest is removable from base at neck. Losses to areas of peripheries of headrest and base, with inactive insect damage, several stable fissures, and light abrasions. Nice patina throughout.