Egyptian Painted Wood Standing Boat Figure

Egypt, Middle Kingdom, 11th to 12th Dynasty, ca. 2030 to 1640 BCE. A sacred boatman figure, skillfully carved in a kneeling position. Though now missing arms, this figure was once ready to row with articulated arms connected to his torso via pegs. Once carved, the figure was covered in a thin layer of gesso and painted in red, black, and white hues. This example presents a particularly engaging visage with large lined eyes that are further accentuated with long black brows, a protruding aquiline nose, and a slight smile, all topped with a classic cap-styled coiffure. An impressive boatman figure, most likely created to be placed in the tomb of Egyptian royalty as was the custom. Funerary boat models were created to assist in the deceased's journey through the underworld. The most well-known models came from Meketre's tomb, more than half of which were funerary boats. Size: 10.625" H (27 cm)

Provenance: ex Estate of Eldert Bontekoe, Pegasi Numismatics, Ann Arbor, Michigan USA acquired before 2000

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#158042
Condition Report: Missing arms. Perforations where articulated arms once were attached. Perforation at base, presumably for attaching to boat at one time. Expected surface wear with scuffs and abrasions commensurate with age. Possible touch up to paint on torso. Otherwise very good.