Art of the Ancient World

Egyptian
(Third Intermediate Period, 21st Dynasty, 1070-945 B.C.)

Ushabti
Faience
Gift of the estate of Louise M. Hook
2005.13.1

During the Middle Kingdom (2040-1786 B.C.), Egyptians began placing ushabtis (literally, "the answerer") in their tombs. These little figures were believed to work on behalf of the deceased in the Fields of Osiris during the afterlife. Although many ushabtis are depicted in the form of a mummy, this figure is shown in the contemporary dress of a living figure, a format that became popular during the New Kingdom. His distinctive trapezoid-shaped apron or skirt identifies this figure as an overseer. According to Egyptian labor hierarchy, there was one overseer assigned for every ten laborers.