Egypt, New Kingdom, 18th to 20th Dynasty, ca. 1570 to 1070 BCE. A finely carved limestone headrest in the form of a pylon or temple entrance; on the sides are traces of several figures delineated in fine red and black line and hieroglyphic text. An unusual form, the firmament symbolism as a Gate to the Heavens. Size: 4.875" L x 9.375" W x 8.25" H (12.4 cm x 23.8 cm x 21 cm)

Headrests were important articles used for Egyptian sleeping areas, and are thought to have had several functions. According to scholars, Egyptians typically slept on their sides, so the curved upper section of the headrest would have held the head above the bed. These headrests were oftentimes also buried with the mummy in order to providing a place for the deceased's head to rest. In addition, elevating the head was integral to Egyptian religious practices as this position was intended to assist in resurrection - mimicking the sun god rising above the horizon - as well as playing a role in the "Opening of the Mouth" ceremony described in the "Book of the Dead."

Provenance: German collection; published in J. Eisenberg, Art of the Ancient World, 2009, no. 173

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#123469

Losses to upper section of headrest and base as shown. Surface wear with faded imagery. Carved hieroglyphs on Side B were added later.