Cowroid Inscribed with a Nefer Hieroglyph

Unknown

ca. 1492–1473 B.C. · Faience · Egyptian Art

This cowrie-shaped amulet is inscribed on the base with a nefer hieroglyph, which represents the word "good," or "beautiful." It was found inside a kohl jar which had been placed in the coffin of an unnamed woman that was discovered in the tomb of Hatnefer (see 36.3.1). Five other cowroids were found in the kohl pot including one with the same inscription that is now in the Egyptian Museum, Cairo. Three of the other amulets are in the Metropolitan Museum's collection (26.3.20, .21, .24). A number of other objects had also been placed in the coffin including two mirrors (36.3.12, .13), three faience bowls (36.3.8–.10) , a circular wood box (36.3.11a, b).

Artist

Unknown

Date

ca. 1492–1473 B.C.

Medium

Faience

Department

Egyptian Art

Credit line

Rogers Fund, 1936