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Fish Pendant

Middle Kingdom
ca. 1878–1749 B.C.
Not on view
The loop for suspension at the mouth of the fish shows that it would have hung vertically as a pendant. Its overall shape with a sharp dorsal fin allows to determine that this is a Synodontis batensoda. More detailed pendants confirm this identification. This type of catfish often swims upside down very close to the surface and is hence also called the "upside-down catfish."

Link to a blog about upside-down catfish
The Upside-down Catfish

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Fish Pendant
  • Period: Middle Kingdom
  • Dynasty: late Dynasty 12–early Dynasty 13
  • Date: ca. 1878–1749 B.C.
  • Geography: From Egypt, Memphite Region, Lisht North, cemetery west of the tomb of Senwosret (758), Pit 847, MMA excavations, 1908–09
  • Medium: Turquoise, gold
  • Dimensions: L. 2.1 cm (13/16 in.); H. 1 cm (3/8 in.); Th. 0.4 cm (3/16 in.)
  • Credit Line: Rogers Fund, 1909
  • Object Number: 09.180.1182
  • Curatorial Department: Egyptian Art

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