Female dancer from Deir el-Medina
This limestone ostracon was discovered in the famous Workers Village of Deir el-Medina. Dating from approximately, 1292–1076 B.C., this piece was created within the 19th or 20th Dynasty.
Deir el-Medina (Set Ma’at) was a workman’s village, which was state commissioned and owned. The artisans and architects who would design and build the tombs of the royals and elite would live there for many centuries with their families.
Discovered in the workers’ village of Deir el-Medina, this ostracon measures approximately 17 cm in width, 11.5 cm in height, and 4 cm in depth. It was acquired by the museum in 1824 from Bernardino Drovetti, a prominent French diplomat and collector.
Deir el-Medina is therefore a treasure trove of knowledge for Egyptologists, as many of these everyday people occupying the village, were among the rare literate in society, and have left us with many ostraca detailing life in their community.
The depiction of a female dancer in an acrobatic position offers valuable insights into the artistic expressions and cultural practices of ancient Egypt during the New Kingdom era. Such artifacts highlight the significance of dance and performance in Egyptian society, reflecting both artistic achievement and social customs of the time.
Dancing in ancient Egypt was a significant part of both religious and social life. It was used in various contexts, including religious ceremonies, royal events, funerary rituals, and everyday entertainment.
Dance had a sacred role in many religious rituals. Priests and priestesses performed dances to honor the gods, often in temples or tombs. The movements were meant to communicate with the divine and convey the worshiper’s devotion. Some dances were symbolic, telling stories or representing divine power and order.
Many Egyptian deities were associated with music and dance. For instance, the goddess Hathor, the goddess of love, beauty, and music, was often depicted dancing in celebrations. Similarly, Osiris, the god of the afterlife, had ritual dances performed in his honor during festivals.