Shawabti of King Taharqa

Artist Unidentified artist

CultureSudanese

Datec. 690-664 BCE

Mediumalabaster

Dimensions12 1/2 x 4 1/2 x 2 1/2 in. (31.8 x 11.4 x 6.4 cm)

Classificationssculpture

Credit LineAckland Fund

Object number62.19.5

DescriptionThis ushabti of King Taharqo is in mummified form, with a rigid body and his fists clenched on the chest. The figure wears the khat headdress extending to the shoulders, with a single uraeus. The headdress is gathered at the back in a ponytail, falling between the shoulder blades. A long beard curled at the end marks his assimilation with Osiris, the dead king now truly divine.The features are carefully modeled: almond-shaped eyes, a broad, fleshy nose, and full lips. The clasped hands are opposed at the center of the chest. Within the grip of each hand is a hoe, and on his back two baskets are suspended from the shoulders by cords. Nine rows of hieroglyphs are incised from waist to feet in front and on the sides, but not in back. Some symbols contain dirt; the front and sides are smoothly finished.
Intact; worn on right, above hieroglyphs.
Incrustations: deep brown on left tear duct, right cheek, beard, and feet.
Back is rough and retains marks of a punch. Alabaster.

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