Canopic jar of Nephthys
Unknown Artist
ca. 1981–1802 B.C.
Medium
Indurated limestone, paint, linen
Dimensions
8 3/4 in. (22.3 cm)
Classification
Canopic jar, Nephthys
Period
Middle Kingdom
Department
Egyptian Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Rogers Fund, 1911
Accession Number
11.150.17e
Art Historical Context
Welcome to the Egyptian Art galleries at the Metropolitan Museum of Art where we encounter the **Canopic jar of Nephthys**, a poignant relic from Egypt's Middle Kingdom, Dynasty 12 (ca. 1981–1802 B.C.). Crafted by an unknown artist, this vessel stands just 8 3/4 inches tall and served a vital role in ancient funerary rituals. Canopic jars like this one housed the internal organs removed during mummification, protecting them for the afterlife. Nephthys, one the four protective goddesses (alongside Isis, Neith, and Selket), presided over the jar containing the lungs, symbolizing her role in safe...