Model bottle from an Opening of the Mouth set
Egypt (Giza, G 2381 A (the tomb of Impy)), Old Kingdom, Dynasty 6, reign of Pepy II, 2246-2152 B.C.E.
Rock Crystal, Height x diameter: 5.7 x 2.9 cm (2 1/4 x 1 1/8 in.)
Harvard University—Boston Museum of Fine Arts Expedition 1913, MFA #13.3267

Tray for Opening of the Mouth kit
Egypt (Giza, G 2382), Old Kingdom, Dynasty 6, 2350-2170 B.C.E.
Travertine (Egyptian alabaster), Width x length: 9.6 x 17.5 cm (3 3/4 x 6 7/8 in.)
Harvard University—Boston Museum of Fine Arts Expedition 1913, MFA #13.3144

Magic knife (peseshkef)
Egypt (Giza, G 7550B), Old Kingdom, Dynasty 6, 2350-2170 B.C.E.
Travertine (Egyptian alabaster), Length: 5 cm (1 15/16 in.)
Harvard University—Boston Museum of Fine Arts Expedition 1928, MFA #28.1148

In Back:
Model cup from an Opening of the Mouth set
Egypt (Giza, G 2381 A) Old Kingdom, Dynasty 6, reign of Pepy II, 2246-2152 B.C.E.
Basalt, Height x diameter: 3.5 x 3.6 cm (1 3/8 x 1 7/16 in.)
Harvard University—Boston Museum of Fine Arts Expedition 1913, MFA #13.3260
"An important part of the Egyptian funeral was a ritual known as the "Opening of the Mouth", which was meant to animate the spirit of the deceased. This model cup was part of the set of magical implements used in the ceremony." (From museum website)

Model cup from an Opening of the Mouth set
Egypt (Giza, G 2011) Old Kingdom, Dynasties 5-6, 2465-2170 B.C.E.
Travertine (Egyptian alabaster),
Harvard University—Boston Museum of Fine Arts Expedition 1936, MFA #47.1717

Photo © Joan Ann Lansberry