Relief Fragment
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The Old Kingdom, spanning from c. 2649 to 2130 B.C., marked a highly dynamic phase in Egyptian art history. While many concepts, practices, and monuments originated in earlier periods, it was during this era that they evolved into forms that would shape and influence the subsequent history of ancient Egypt.
This fragmentary limestone relief dates to the rule of the Pharaoh Snefru (2680-2565 BC), who was the first ruler of the Old Kingdom’s 4th Dynasty. It is carved with the face of a male figure, with close cropped hair and fine intricate detailing on his deeply lined eye and ear. This fragment comes from a wall relief, likely a tomb or Mastaba.
Fogg Art Museum, Cambridge, Massachusetts, Ancient Art in American Private Collections, 28th December 1954 – 15th February 1955.
Fogg Art Museum, Cambridge, Massachusetts, Ancient Art in American Private Collections, 28th December 1954 – 15th February 1955, No. 2 (p17 & pl. II)
Reputedly from Saqqarah
Previously in the Private Collection of Mr & Mrs E.H. Heckett, Pennsylvania, from at least 1954.
From the estate of a deceased American, acquired between 1970-1989.
Sold at: Bonham's, London, Knightsbridge, 28 October 2009, lot 23 [Part].
European art market, acquired from the above sale.
London art market, 2023.
UK art market, 2023.
ALR: S00236804, with IADAA Certificate, this item has been checked against the Interpol database.
