Ritual Object Carved in the Shape of a Freshwater Mussel
This stone model represents a freshwater mussel (of the family unionoida). Similar objects were included in the foundation deposits of tombs and royal mortuary temples of Dynasty 18. This example is probably one of two that were uncovered by Howard Carter in 1921 when he was excavating in a cul-de-sac at the southern end of the Valley of the Kings. The entrance of the tomb of Thutmose III (KV 34) lies in a crevice above and periodic rains from the high desert plateau drain down the cliffs, through the crevice, and into the cul-de sac. It is possible that foudation deposits at entrance of KV 34 were dislodged during one of these rains and deposited in the cul-de-sac where they became buried in debris. The inscription, which includes the king's throne name, reads "The Good God Menkheperre, beloved of Osiris."
Artwork Details
- Title: Ritual Object Carved in the Shape of a Freshwater Mussel
- Period: New Kingdom
- Dynasty: Dynasty 18
- Reign: reign of Thutmose III
- Date: ca. 1479–1425 B.C.
- Geography: From Egypt, Upper Egypt, Thebes, Valley of the Kings, cul-de-sac below the Tomb of Thutmose III (KV 34), Carter/Carnarvon excavations, 1921
- Medium: Travertine (Egyptian alabaster)
- Dimensions: L. 9.5 cm (3 3/4 in.)
- Credit Line: Rogers Fund, 1932
- Object Number: 32.2.21
- Curatorial Department: Egyptian Art
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ca. 1390–1352 B.C.
ca. 1349–1330 B.C. or shortly thereafter
1327–1295 BC
ca. 1479–1458 B.C.
ca. 1580–1550 B.C.
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