“Offerings,” created by an unknown Ancient Egyptian artist around 1422-1411 BC, exemplifies the New Kingdom period and belongs to the still life genre. This particular piece is part of the series from the Tomb of Menna, which dates approximately between 1422 and 1390 BC.
The artwork presents an array of items meticulously arranged in a still life composition. At the top, two oval shapes, possibly representing flat bread or loaves, are accompanied by pairs of looped items that may symbolize bound sheaves or loaves. Beneath these, two detailed depictions of fish lay horizontally, their scales and fins rendered with precision. On the left, a pair of birds, identifiable as ducks, are shown in a restful pose. Below this, geometric diamond patterns create a sense of order and symmetry. Vessels likely intended for liquids, possibly wine or oil, are aligned in three narrow, elongated forms. Adjacent to the vessels, there are representations of round objects that could be buns or fruit, and finally, a woven basket containing blue and black items, perhaps berries. This composition not only showcases the culinary wealth of the time but also reflects the ritualistic and offering practices central to Ancient Egyptian culture.
