Block Statue of Tety
From Thebes, Karnak Temple
New Kingdom, Eighteenth Dynasty, reign of Thutmosis III (about 1479-1425 B.C.)
Quartzite, Height 23-3/8 in.
EA 888, acquired in 1909 (cat. no. 47)
©Trustees of The British Museum, Courtesy AFA

In contrast to the deliberate simplicity of the two adjacent block statues, this one, made for a priest named Tety, includes many details that were most likely specified by its owner. Instead of a cloak, Tety wears a long kilt, sandals, and the leopard-skin vestment of a priest (with the animal’s tail indicated in relief on the base). A hieroglyphic amulet containing the motto "life and peace" hangs over his hands. In his left hand, Tety holds a lotus, a symbol of rebirth.