Three model boats showing sun god, from graves of high-ranking officials

These model boats come from graves of high-ranking officials in ancient Egypt, beside the coffins. They symbolise the hope that the soul of the deceased person has become immortal, joining the sun god Ra-Horakhty on his eternal journey.

These three wooden boats are models of the kinds of boat which would have travelled along the Nile River. Ra-Horakhty is shown in various guises including cat form, sitting under the canopy in the middle. The rowing crew are also depicted.

In funerary art Ra-Horakhty was shown navigating the night sky to be reborn each day at dawn. According to ancient Egyptian belief, immortal souls accompanied the god on his eternal journey.

Record details

To search on related items, click any linked text below.