Stela with Sculptor’s “Signature”
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Object Label
Unlike nearly every other work of ancient Egyptian art, this stela is signed by the artist. The deeply cut inscription beneath the lower register names “the sculptor Nefertem.” He was probably allowed to add his name as compensation for his work, thus perpetuating his memory for eternity.
Caption
Stela with Sculptor’s “Signature”, ca. 1836–1759 B.C.E.. Limestone, 20 1/4 x 12 3/16 x 3 7/16 in., 40.5 lb. (51.5 x 31 x 8.8 cm, 18.37kg). Brooklyn Museum, Charles Edwin Wilbour Fund, 37.1347E. (Photo: Brooklyn Museum)
Title
Stela with Sculptor’s “Signature”
Date
ca. 1836–1759 B.C.E.
Dynasty
late Dynasty 12
Period
Middle Kingdom
Geography
Reportedly from: Saqqara, Egypt
Medium
Limestone
Classification
Dimensions
20 1/4 x 12 3/16 x 3 7/16 in., 40.5 lb. (51.5 x 31 x 8.8 cm, 18.37kg)
Credit Line
Charles Edwin Wilbour Fund
Accession Number
37.1347E
Frequent Art Questions
What were stelae used for?
By definition, a stela is a slab of stone or wood with images and/or writing on it. This stela and most of the others you’ll see in our galleries were used in tombs as representation of offerings to the dead and a way to ask for more.The people on the right are giving the offerings. The people on the left are receiving them. You can even see them sniffing their flowers!
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