23. Miniature Figurines

These small figurines were used in domestic cults when Egyptian control of Askut faded. They were made by pinching the clay between the fingers to form animal, human, or vessel forms. The peg-like objects may represent beer jars. Many quadruped figurines, especially cattle and crocodiles, as well as food models and birds, were found in domestic ritual assemblages at Askut. Human figurines were linked to the Egyptian veneration of household ancestors during the Thirteenth Dynasty, whereas cattle figurines became popular in the later phases of the settlement (Second Intermediate and early New Kingdom) reflecting C-Group customs. Miniature vessels were the most common type of votive figurine at the site across all eras; those above have incised decoration that conforms to a local aesthetic. Other cultural materials, including utilitarian pottery, were found dispersed throughout the settlement, suggesting strong Nubian influence in this community.