Two intriguing Egyptian funerary cones previously on loan to the Spurlock Museum became a permanent gift to the Spurlock in May of 2003 through the generosity of Elinore Glassman.
From a tomb in Gurneh, Egypt, these cone-shaped baked clay objects are typical of cones found in tombs and sometimes placed above the doorway of tombs with the stamped inscription facing outward. The hieroglyphics on the ends name Djehuty-Nefer, in the priesthood of Amun, of the New Kingdom Period. Whether cones like these served as identification of the tomb’s occupants, ornamentation, protective amulets, or had other symbolic purpose is still a mystery.
See the Museum’s funerary cones in the Africa gallery displayed alongside other fascinating items from ancient Egyptian tombs.
Learn more: Egyptian Funerary Cones:2002.12
Most of the artifacts in New Acquisitions articles are chosen to allow website visitors to explore artifacts that are not on display in the Museum's galleries. Try searching the database or exploring the Virtual Tour to find artifacts on display.