A small inlaid sculpture of a soft-shelled turtle

Unknown

ca. 1991–1802 B.C. · Amethyst, turquoise, lapis-lazuli, carnelian, adhesive · Egyptian Art

This exquisitely manufactured figurine represents an African soft-shelled turtle, Trionyx triunguis. Created from amethyst, a difficult stone to carve, this turtle’s back was inlaid with tiny semi-precious stones designed to imitate the stippled pattern found on the animal’s shell. This object is a sophisticated example of Middle Kingdom artistic skill and creativity and must have been commissioned by an elite member of society. Animal figurines have a long history as gifts to deities and as burial goods to protect the dead.

Artist

Unknown

Date

ca. 1991–1802 B.C.

Medium

Amethyst, turquoise, lapis-lazuli, carnelian, adhesive

Department

Egyptian Art

Credit line

Purchase, Edward S. Harkness Gift, 1926