Mastaba Tomb of Perneb
Unknown Artist
ca. 2381–2323 B.C.
Medium
Limestone, paint
Dimensions
H. 482.2 cm (15 ft. 9 13/16 in.)
Classification
Mastaba, Perneb
Period
Old Kingdom
Department
Egyptian Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of Edward S. Harkness, 1913
Accession Number
13.183.3
Tags
Art Historical Context
Step into the timeless world of ancient Egypt with the Mastaba Tomb of Perneb a remarkable limestone structure from the Old Kingdom's Fifth Dynasty (ca. 2381–2323 B.C.). Mastabas like this one were elite tombs built for high-ranking officials, featuring a flat-roofed, bench-like superstructure above an underground burial chamber. Per, likely a royal courtier or priest, was honored with this elaborate memorial to ensure his eternal life, reflecting the Egyptians' profound belief in the afterlife. Carved from limestone and adorned with vibrant paints—traces of which survive today—the tomb showc...