Statuette of Lady Itef

Culture: Ancient Egyptian
Period: Middle Kingdom, 2055–1650 BCE
Dynasty: Dynasty 12, 1991–1802 BCE
Date: 1991–1783 BCE
Material: Limestone
from: Egypt, Africa
Classification: Sculpture, stone & mineral
Collection: Ancient Art
Current Location: On View, Gallery 313
Dimensions: height: 6 1/2 in. (16.5 cm)
Credit Line: Museum Purchase
Rights: Public Domain
Object Number: 30:1924

NOTES

Rather than an accurate portrait, this statuette of a woman named Itef emphasizes her feminine qualities. She has high breasts, an unnaturally narrow waist, and broad hips. The sensuous curves of her body can be seen beneath her dress with its two broad shoulder straps. Her voluminous wavy wig that falls in front of her shoulders in spiral curls imitates the hairstyle of Hathor, a goddess associated with women, children, and regeneration.

Provenance

Dr. Fouquet, Paris, France [1]

- 1924
Joseph Brummer, New York, NY, USA

1924 -
Saint Louis Art Museum, purchased from Joseph Brummer [2]

Notes:
[1] According to a list attached to the invoice and provided by Joseph Brummer, the figure was in the Fouquet Collection [SLAM document files]. To date no published confirmation of this provenance can be located.

[2] Invoice dated January 4, 1924 [SLAM document files]. Minutes of the Administrative Board of Control of the City Art Museum, March 27, 1924.

We regularly update records, which may be incomplete. If you have additional information, please contact us at provenance@slam.org.