5. Reproduction of an Incense Burner with Bound Captives

This is a 3D-printed replica of an incense burner, used to burn aromatic substances (e.g. frankincense, myrrh, camel grass). The latter, associated in Egypt with divinity, are thought to have been introduced there through A-Group traders. The original artifact is carved with an elaborate scene. Three boats on the Nile move to the right towards a tree and a serekh (a palace façade representation). The first bark transports a captive figure; part of a masted sail is preserved in front. Another figure stands behind them holding the bondage rope and a macehead, a symbol of military might. The middle bark is dominated by a royal figure, likely seated on a throne and wearing the White Crown of Upper Egyptian pharaohs. The Horus falcon identifies the figure as a manifestation of the god. The boat on the left carries an animal (likely a feline) identified as a god by the standard (or symbol) of Horus behind it. Much of this iconography draws from late Predynastic and Protodynastic Egypt, especially the Horus falcon, the serekh, the captive enemy, and the crown. The iconography tells of a Nilotic campaign by a southern ruler who, with the assistance of Horus, defeated an enemy and brought them to a palatial space in captivity. However, the censer was found in a royal, A-Group tomb at Qustul in Lower Nubia. It had been furnished mostly with A-Group artifacts, such as shell hooks, ear plugs, quartz palettes, and imports from Egypt and Palestine. The censer was made from a local stone similarly to other, simpler censers found at Qustul. The cylindrical form is unique to Nubian (including pre-Kerma) cultures. The fusion of elements cannot be explained simply through trade. It may have been the product of a sculptor who was conversant with Egyptian iconography, but used a local form and material to create a bespoke product for a Qustul ruler. Further, the censer shows that images of divinities, conquest, and Nilotic travel were used to proclaim the authority and prestige of elites in Egypt and Nubia.