Travelling Boat being Rowed

Unknown

ca. 1981–1975 B.C. · Wood, paint, plaster, linen twine and cloth · Egyptian Art

This boat is being rowed in a northerly direction, downstream, against the prevailing north wind. Its mast and spars rest in the forklike support beam, ready to be rigged for the return journey. The sail lies folded on the deck. A small cabin, positioned amidships, leaves room for eighteen rowers; speed clearly is important on this journey. Seated on a stool in the prow, Meketre holds a closed lotus flower to his nose. Before him stands a man (possibly the boat captain), with arms crossed reverentially over his chest. Inside the cabin, a servant guards Meketre's trunk. Is the Chief Steward on an inspection tour for the pharaoh, and does the trunk contain the accounts? Even if this represents a real-life event, the model still refers to the afterlife because the lotus flower, which opens every morning when the sun comes up, is a symbol of rebirth.

Artist

Unknown

Date

ca. 1981–1975 B.C.

Medium

Wood, paint, plaster, linen twine and cloth

Department

Egyptian Art

Credit line

Rogers Fund and Edward S. Harkness Gift, 1920