Upper Part of a Seated Figure in a Long Kilt
Unknown Artist
ca. 1800–1650 B.C.
Medium
Serpentinite (?)
Dimensions
H. 7.4 × W. 4.7 × D. 4 cm (2 15/16 × 1 7/8 × 1 9/16 in.)
Classification
Upper Part of a Seated Figure in a Long Kilt
Period
Middle Kingdom
Department
Egyptian Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Bequest of Nanette B. Kelekian, 2020
Accession Number
2021.41.135
Art Historical Context
This petite fragment, the *Upper Part of a Seated Figure in a Long Kilt*, hails from Egypt's Middle Kingdom, specifically Dynasty 13 (ca. 1800–1650 B.C.). Carved from serpentinite—a dense, greenish stone prized for its durability—this 7.4 cm tall piece captures the torso and head of a figure clad in a traditional long kilt, a garment symbolizing status among Egyptian elites and officials. Its small scale suggests it was likely part of a votive statue or amulet, offerings placed in temples to invoke divine favor or commemorate the deceased. During the Middle Kingdom, Egypt experienced a cultur...