Mould

Limestone figure-mould, square shaped and incised with a representation of a bennu-bird, a sacred bird associated with regeneration and the cults of the sun-gods Atum and Ra. The mould was probably used in the manufacture of Egyptian faience decorative inlays. Number in ink on top, beneath the bird, 4015; round sticker on the top, H.P. 509 (i.e., Wellcome's inventory number of objects purchased at the Hilton Price sale. Ex Frederick George Hilton-Price collection, sold at Sotheby's, London, 12-20 July 1911 lot 252 (1 of 8): “A stone mould, with figure of the ‘Bennu’ bird of Heliopolis; and a pair of stone Moulds, with similar designs; from Bubastis; (3548, 4015)”. CONDITION NOTE (1998): Previous repair to one corner, chipped, pitted, surface dirt, labels adhered to surface.