Worker Shabti of Henettawy (C), Daughter of Isetemkheb

Art Historical Context

This delicate faience shabti, standing just under 5 inches tall, served as a "worker" figurine for Henettawy (C), a high-ranking priestess and daughter of Isetemheb during Egypt's Third Intermediate Period (asty 21, ca. 990–970 B.C.). Shabtis like this were placed tombs to perform labor for their owner in the afterlife, the ancient Egyptian belief in eternal life and the need for servants beyond death. Henettawy, part of Theban elite families tied to the God's Wife of Amun title, reflects the era's powerful priestly dynasties that ruled from the south while pharaohs held nominal power in the n...