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Canopic jar of Perneb

Old Kingdom
ca. 2381–2323 BCE
Not on view
Vessels in which the liver, lungs, stomach, and intestines were deposited during mummification are referred to as "canopic jars." Early Egyptologists mistakenly likened Middle Kingdom and later organ containers that were covered by lids shaped as human heads to images of the Greek hero Canopus, who was worshipped as a human-headed vessel. Old Kingdom organ containers, however, had simple convex lids and were seldom inscribed.

This jar was found with three others (see 14.7.16–.17,.19) in the burial chamber of Perneb, south of his sarcophagus. However, the jars were never used; their interiors are absolutely clean. Presumably, the simple presence of the jars was sufficient to magically protect the organs, even if the viscera themselves remained inside the body.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Canopic jar of Perneb
  • Period: Old Kingdom
  • Dynasty: Dynasty 5
  • Reign: reign of Isesi–Unis
  • Date: ca. 2381–2323 BCE
  • Geography: From Egypt, Memphite Region, Saqqara, Tomb of Perneb, MMA excavations, 1913–14
  • Medium: Limestone
  • Dimensions: H: 24.5 cm (9 5/8 in.); diam: 13.3 cm (5 1/4 in.)
  • Credit Line: Gift of Edward S. Harkness, 1914
  • Object Number: 14.7.18a, b
  • Curatorial Department: Egyptian Art

More Artwork

More Artwork
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"Opening of the Mouth" vessel of Perneb, Dark stone
"Opening of the Mouth" vessel of Perneb
ca. 2381–2323 BCE
Canopic Jar of Princess Sithathoryunet - Qebehsenuef, Travertine (Egyptian alabaster), paint
Canopic Jar of Princess Sithathoryunet - Qebehsenuef
ca. 1887–1813 B.C.
Fragment from the head of a statue, Coniferous wood (Cedar), black paint
Fragment from the head of a statue
ca. 2381–2323 BCE
Canopic jar of Nephthys, Indurated limestone, paint, linen
Canopic jar of Nephthys
ca. 1981–1802 B.C.
"Opening of the Mouth" vessel of Perneb, Dark stone
"Opening of the Mouth" vessel of Perneb
ca. 2381–2323 BCE

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