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Vase in the Shape of Mother Monkey with Her Young

Old Kingdom
ca. 2255–2246 B.C.
Not on view
Inscribed with the name of Merenre I, fourth king of Dynasty 6. This charming composition alludes to motherhood and fertility and also to the exotic lands that provided rare ingredients for the oils and unguents contained in these vases. The contents were presumably believed to have rejuvenating effects.

Inscriptions on this and similar vases (1992.338) suggest that the vessels were given by Sixth Dynasty kings to favored courtiers, particularly women, at the time of the king's jubilee.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Vase in the Shape of Mother Monkey with Her Young
  • Period: Old Kingdom
  • Dynasty: Dynasty 6
  • Reign: reign of Merenre I
  • Date: ca. 2255–2246 B.C.
  • Geography: From Egypt
  • Medium: Travertine (Egyptian alabaster), paint, resin and pigment
  • Dimensions: H. 18.6 × W. 6.5 × D. 7.6 cm (7 5/16 × 2 9/16 × 3 in.)
  • Credit Line: Theodore M. Davis Collection, Bequest of Theodore M. Davis, 1915
  • Object Number: 30.8.134
  • Curatorial Department: Egyptian Art

Audio

Cover Image for 3265. Two Vases in the Shape of a Mother Monkey with her Young

3265. Two Vases in the Shape of a Mother Monkey with her Young

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