Sherd

Fragments from the edge of a straight-walled beaker, thickening slightly at the rim. Decorated with a scene painted in red, it is a rare example of a narrative scene in Meroitic pottery, probably influenced by contemporary styles in Alexandria. On the left stands a naked man with a full beard, seen from behind, who turns to the right and bends slightly forward. His left arm is extended behind his body; his right arm hangs down in front of him. A naked woman, in front view, is turned towards him. She holds in front of her abdomen a large rectangular patterned object. Lotus flowers on slender stems appear between and behind the two figures. A damaged area to the right indicates the place where the handle was attached, and beyond it is preserved a painted arm with an object in the hand, part of another scene. Two pieces broken and mended together.