A rare Egyptian Model Wood Coffin, Ptolemaic Period, ca. 305 - 30 BC

An outstanding rectangular miniature sarcophagus featuring an intricate frieze of djed pillars and tyet symbols on its sides, conferring stability and endurance on the deceased. The top displays Anubis as a black reclining jackal in the center, and a Ba bird in each of the four corners.

 For related example see: W. M. F. Petrie, "Abydos", 1902, pl. LXXJV., A. Macy Roth, "Mummies & Magic", Boston, 1988, pp. 175-176., and British Museum, accession number: EA 36425 

Medium: Wood, polychrome

Dimensions: Height: 15.24 cm (6 inches), Length: 18 cm (7 inches) 

Condition: Retaining much of its bright coloring, with some minor wear and expected wood cracking and minor loss. The headdress restored for one bird, loss to the right ear for the jackal. Overall intact and in good condition.   A rare and fabulous example.

Provenance: Private collection Dr. John S. Winnie, Georgie, USA, acquired in the 1990s, private Virginia collection acquired at Pierre Bergé & Associés, Paris, 14 December 2009, lot #218, and thereafter Harer Family Trust, California.