Skip to main content
Advanced Search
Ushabti (Tomb Servant)
Ushabti (Tomb Servant)
Ushabti (Tomb Servant)

Ushabti (Tomb Servant)

Maker
Date744-656 BC
PeriodThird Intermediate Period, 25th dynasty.
Place MadeEgypt, Africa
MediumPolychrome limestone
Dimensions26.6 x 8.9 x 10 cm (10 1/2 x 3 1/2 x 3 15/16 in.)
Credit LineGift of Drs. John and Bessie Sawhill
Object number76.1.359
On View
Not on view
Collections
Inscribed'She makes good/beautiful offerings to the Osiris.' [NB: 'Osiris' here denotes the deceased, and not the god.] Osiris (Wsir + deity determinative sign) makes (di) offerings (htp) good/beautiful (nfr) she (s + feminine determinative sign)
Label TextUshabti – ‘one who answers’ – are tomb servants intended to do the labor of the deceased in the ancient Egyptian afterlife. Tombs have at least 365 ushabti, to ensure a new servant each day of the year. Wealthy tombs also included overseer ushabti to ensure work was carried out. In this display, we have included various ushabti: some are carved from cheap limestone or wood and painted to resemble the mummified deceased, while others were made in brilliant turquoise faience (glazed ceramic). Although made of common materials, faience was a high-status material. On account of its brilliant surface, it was considered magical, glimmering with the brilliance of eternity, filled with the undying shimmer of the sun and imbued with the powers of rebirth.
NotesOn Loan/Not At Mac: Lisanby 2020-2022 Inventory: Y Row: 5 Shelf/Cabinet: K Box/Bay/Drawer: 2 Dimensions (H X W X D In): 10.5 X 3.5 X 4 In Object Condition: Stable Condition Report?: No Images?: Yes Research Doc?: Yes Flat File Folder?: Yes Scanned?: No

Most of the information about our objects comes from original files, which we are currently reviewing. As such, some of the language may reflect past attitudes and practices that are not acceptable. The Madison Art Collection does not condone the use of offensive or harmful language and does not endorse any of the views reflected in outdated documents. We are committed to an approach that is inclusive and respectful, and we wish to correct language that may be harmful or inaccurate. If you have suggestions, please email us at madisonart@jmu.edu.