A remarkable example of the re-use of a work of art, reflecting the course of Egypt's long history, this statue was originally carved to commemorate a powerful government official. A thousand years later the inscription naming this unknown man was erased, and a carved scene was added depicting its new owner, Pa-di-iset, son of Apy, worshipping the gods Osiris, Horus, and Isis. From a text on the rear of the statue we learn that Pa-di-iset was a diplomatic messenger to the neighboring lands of Canaan and Peleset (Palestine).
Inscription
[Translation] caption of the scene on the kilt: Ka of Osiris: Pa-di-iset, the justified, son of Apy.
[Translation] on the back pillar: The only renowned one, the impartial envoy of Philistine Canaan, Pa-di-iset, son of Apy.
Provenance
Provenance (from the Frenchprovenir, 'to come from/forth') is the chronology of the ownership, custody, or location of a historical object. Learn more aboutprovenance at the Walters.
Maurice Nahman, Cairo, [date and mode of acquisition unknown]; Henry Walters, Baltimore, 1928, by purchase; Walters Art Museum, 1931, by bequest.
Exhibitions
1998-2001
Highlights from the Collection. The Walters Art Gallery, Baltimore.
1984
The Taste of Maryland: Art Collecting in Maryland 1800-1934. The Walters Art Gallery, Baltimore.
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