Lid for a canopic jar in the shape of a human head
SculptureEgyptian4th century BCE-4th century CE

Lid for a canopic jar in the shape of a human head

c. 320 BCE - 200 CE

Description

Ptolemaic or later. Surface of head is dirty grey. Raised circular projection on bottom with concave interior intended to fit into the mouth of the Canopic jar itself. Clean shaven human head, broad nose and slightly smiling lips. The head wears a featureless wig that covers the ears. There are abundant traces of incisions from carving tools.

Classification
Sculpture
Technique
Carved
Medium
Limestone
Culture
Egyptian
Period
Ptolemaic period to Roman Imperial
Century
4th century BCE-4th century CE
Division
Asian and Mediterranean Art
Department
Department of Ancient and Byzantine Art & Numismatics

Dimensions

8.5 x 11.5 cm (3 3/8 x 4 1/2 in.) 8 cm (3 1/8 in.)

Provenance

Ex collection Professor Mason Hammond, Pope Professor of Latin Language and Literature, Departments of the Classics and of History, Harvard University

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Lid for a canopic jar in the shape of a human head | Harvard Art Museums | KenAI