Egyptian potters created ceramic vessels for many purposes from the everyday to symbolic of their beliefs. An unusual piece in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum's collection is this footed bowl which is believed to be from the Predynastic Period. At first glance it may appear to be a bit of folly, however, it has much more symbolism than you may think.
A small polished red ware bowl has feet supporting it. You will notice that the bowl tips forward as if to spill it's contents. The clay is from the Nile River and is a smooth bowl with slip and a polished surface that gives a soft sheen to the surface. It is believed that the vessel symbolizes a three-dimensional hieroglyph for the word w'b, which means pure or clean. he bowl of the vessel tips forward as if to spill it's contents so that water that has been purified could be spilled onto the ground.
Bowls like this have been excavated from ancient cemeteries and it is believed to be an offering of clear water for the dead.
--Debra Wallace
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