Shabti

MU 415 is a small aqua-green faience mummiform shabti. Although this shabti dates from the Late Period (664-332 B.C.E) shabtis similar to MU415 were extremely popular throughout the New Kingdom. They are frequently attested in the archaeological record specifically within funerary contexts. Facial features including the eyes, nose and mouth are represented in very fine detail. A number of distinct stylistic features can also be clearly observed including, a headdress, beard and dorsal pillar. The dorsal pillar extends from the head of the shabti and runs down the back of the figure. Typically, this would also continue under the feet of the shabti to form a square pedestal however the base of MU415 is missing. The arms of the shabti are crossed at the chest and each hand carries an agricultural tool. A hoe is held in the right hand and a pick is held in the left, whilst a bag is stung over the figures left shoulder. These features suggest that the shabti was intended to function as a substitute for the deceased in the afterlife, acting as one of many servants that were involved in agriculture and food production for the deceased.