A set of four canopic jars was an important element of the burial in most periods of Ancient Egyptian history. Canopic jars were containers in which the separately mummified organs would be placed. The best known versions of these jars have lids in the shape of the heads of protective deities called the four Sons of Horus. Hapi, the baboon, protected the lungs and was associated with the goddess Nephthys. Duamutef, the jackal, protected the stomach and was associated with Neith. Imsety, with a human face, guarded the Liver and was associated with Isis, and Qubehsenuef, represented as a falcon, presided over the intestines and was associated with Selkis.

This finely carved dummy jar has no interior cavity and the “lid” is not removable. It dates to a period during which the internal organs were mummified and then placed back into the mummy, but canopic jars continued to be included as part of the burial equipment in order to ensure the protection of the four Sons of Horus.

Dimensions: Height: 10 1/4 inches (26 cm)

Condition: Intact and in excellent condition overall.

Provenance: Private Florida collection, acquired from Albert Tawdros, Luxor, Egypt in 1977.  Original Tawdros card accompanies this object.