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Cylindrical Box

Egyptian, Classical, Ancient Near Eastern Art

On View: 19th Dynasty to Roman Period, Martha A. and Robert S. Rubin Gallery, 3rd Floor

The band of incised decoration running around the circumference of this vessel shows the seated figure of a man named lpuy at a banquet. An attendant pours him a small amount of liquid, perhaps wine. Behind them appear five female dancers and musicians. The single band of inscription above the scene offers advice for enjoying oneself at a banquet: "Deck yourself with garlands, anoint yourself with oil, spend the day merrily!"

MEDIUM Wood
  • Reportedly From: Saqqara, Egypt
  • DATES ca. 1336–1295 B.C.E.
    DYNASTY late Dynasty 18
    PERIOD New Kingdom
    DIMENSIONS 4 3/8 × Diam. 2 15/16 in. (11.1 × 7.4 cm)  (show scale)
    ACCESSION NUMBER 37.600E
    CREDIT LINE Charles Edwin Wilbour Fund
    CATALOGUE DESCRIPTION Cylindrical toilet box in wood with swivel cover. Inscribed for Ipy and decorated with representations of the owner and female musicians and dancers. Condition: Repairs have been made to secure the bottom and the splits in the side walls. Partially restored.
    CAPTION Cylindrical Box, ca. 1336–1295 B.C.E. Wood, 4 3/8 × Diam. 2 15/16 in. (11.1 × 7.4 cm). Brooklyn Museum, Charles Edwin Wilbour Fund, 37.600E. Creative Commons-BY (Photo: Brooklyn Museum, 37.600E_NegD_glass_bw_SL4.jpg)
    IMAGE overall, 37.600E_NegD_glass_bw_SL4.jpg. Brooklyn Museum photograph
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    RIGHTS STATEMENT Creative Commons-BY
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