Limestone Stele of Semenet

Culture: Egyptian

Period: New Kingdom, 19th-20th century, 1292-1075 B.C.

Material: Limestone

Dimensions: 34.5 cm x 21 cm

Price: Sold

Ref: 1223

Provenance: Gallery Rhea, Switzerland, with the inventory number 2396. On 19 February 1991 sold to a Swiss private collection. Accompanied by a copy of the original invoice, as well as an expertise by the Swiss expert Robert Bigler dated 11 January 1991.

Condition: Some wear along the edges of the stele which do not affect the relief. With some color remains, especially in the figures.

Description: Wonderfully preserved limestone relief dedicated to a woman named Semenet. In the upper part the Udjat pair of eyes with the shen ring in between, both symbols for protection and eternity. Below a depiction of an offering scene. On the right of a lavishly set offering table the standing donor of the stele can be seen. He presents to the seated couple opposite of him a water- and incense offering. On the left, seated on a chair, appears the deceased named Semenet with a long, finely worked wig. She holds her husband's arm, who is seated next to her and is smelling on a lotus blossom. The lower part of the stele with a two lines inscription with the offering phrase. The translation reads: "A royal act of grace: Osiris, the ruler of eternity, the great God, the ruler of Abydos, he may offer a sacrifice of bread, beer, beef and poultry. For the Ka of the lady of the house Semenet, be blessed.” The name of the donor can only be fragmentally deciphered with “H3t”. The name Semenet is attested several times and appears in the Middle and New Kingdom. Mounted.