Model of A Man Ploughing Fields
GEM Number
1505
Collection
Main Galleries
Period
Middle Kingdom
Dynasty
12
Description
Models showing various stages in the production of food were included in Middle Kingdom wealthy burials possibly due to the ancient Egyptian belief that work will continue in the fields of Osiris in the afterlife. This painted wooden model was found at Deir el-Bersha in the tomb of Sepi II and Sepi III. It shows a farmer directing two oxen. Behind him are two muzzled oxen resting on the ground. Ploughing took place when the flood waters receded leaving behind a thick layer of fertile silt. A plough drawn by two cattle was used to refresh the soil and prepare it for seeding.
Region
Upper Egypt
Area
Minya
Pigment - Wood
Height
19.5 cm
Width
18 cm
Length
50 cm