Egyptian museum replica - offering bearer from the tomb of Kheruef - 18th dynasty reign of Amenhotep III

Tomb relief sculpture
highlight - 18th dynasty - Reign of Amenhotep III

Dimensions :-
Height - 27.5 cm / 10-3/4 inches
Width - 27.5 cm /10-3/4 inches

On offer here for the first time on Etsy is a rare Egyptian tomb relief replica featuring a smiling offering bearer. Of classic late 18th dynasty design he presents a portion of sliced meat and holds a bunch of papyrus fronds. Another offering bearer would have followed as can be determined by his remaining hand in the upper right hand register.

This carving was part of a traditional procession scene whereby the tomb owner would be eternally supplied by exotic goods and food offerings for the afterlife. The carving style is typical of the works created during the last years of Amenhotep III as the eyes, mouth and in particular, the shape of the heavy braided wig are synonymous with the era's surviving works.

The tombs of Ramose and Kheruef the prime examples for comparrison. In fact I believe this relief is a highlight from the tomb of Kheruef as it was part of a collection of replicas that were once housed in the Cairo museum that are now part of the collection here. Sold off to make way for new displays, they are incredibly rare and I hope to share others in the future as some of the original scenes in the actual tombs have been damaged. This is why a good replica preserving as much detail as possible, becomes an important study document as well as an object of beauty to display in your home.

Made of a limestone and quartzite composition stone, it has a wire loop on the back for a wall display option. The frame is part of the matrix and is stained white which compliments the aged ochre scene.