Golden Strainer from Bubastis

This golden strainer from Bubastis is intended for a wine service, removing sediment from the beverage as it is poured out of jugs, jars or flasks into bowls, goblets or situlae for drinking. The strainer indicates that most if not all of the Tell Basta vessels belonged to just such a wine service, certainly a very special one associated with a temple festival.

Tell Basta, also known as Bubastis, was an ancient city in Egypt that flourished during the Pharaonic period. It was a significant center for worshiping the goddess Bastet. Gold vessels were commonly used by the elite and the wealthy in ancient Egypt. These vessels were often intricately decorated and served both practical and symbolic purposes. They were used for storing and serving liquids, such as wine or perfumes, and were also seen as symbols of wealth and status.

In ancient Egypt, wine was indeed consumed and enjoyed by the people. It was considered a luxury item and was often associated with celebrations and religious rituals. Wine was produced from grapes and was commonly consumed by both the upper class and the lower class.

As for the goddess Bastet, she was a prominent deity in ancient Egyptian mythology. She was often depicted as a lioness or as a woman with the head of a lioness. Bastet was associated with various aspects, including protection, fertility, and the home.

While there is no direct connection between wine and the goddess Bastet, it is possible that wine may have been offered as a libation or used in rituals dedicated to her. However, specific details about the use of wine in relation to Bastet are not widely documented.

New Kingdom, 19th Dynasty, reign of Ramesses II, ca. 1279-1213 BC. From Temple of Bastet, ancient cache, Tell Basta (Bubastis). Now in the Metropolitan Museum of Art. 30.8.369