Shabti

MU 514 is a small mummiform shabti. Although this shabti dates from the Third Intermediate Period (1069 � 945 B.C.E) shabtis were extremely popular during the New Kingdom and later periods of Egyptian history. They are frequently attested in the archaeological record specifically within funerary contexts. MU 514 is light brown in colour although remnants of a green glaze can be observed on the right arm and back of the shabti. Black ink has been used to highlight a number of features including the eyes, nose, the seshed headband, the two hoes clasped in both hands and a bag which is strung over the shabti�s 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. A vertical line of hieroglyphic text has also been inscribed onto the folded arms and torso of the shabti. Although this is partially preserved, it is still possible to decipher part of the text which reads The Osiris, [gods-father?] of Amun, Djed-Khonsu-iuef-ankh.