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Tutankhamun: Anatomy of an Excavation
The Howard Carter Archives
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Carter No.: 271e(1)

Handlist description: Reed pen case

Card/Transcription No.: 271e1-1


(see palettes 271, E (2); 271, B.)

271, E. (1) A Reed Pen Case. (wrapped with linen with palette (271, E. 2)). L. 30., Diam. 2.1., cms.

A reed-holder or case in the form of a palm-column as depicted in the hieroglyphic ideogram <> sš (i.e. scribe's outfit, consisting of palette, water-bowl, and reed-holder).

It is made of wood (or possibly a segment of a reed), covered with thin gold, incrusted with ornament of glass and calcite; and has a lid in form of an abacus, circular base, pin hinge and knob fastenings of stained ivory. In the centre are the cartouches (prenomen & nomen) of the King. The ivory abacus, the palm-leaf capital, the ivory base, the drum of the model column of chased gold incrusted with brilliant colour glass, makes this reed holder a charming and ornate object.

Card no. 271e1-1 relating to Carter no. 271e(1)
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Tutankhamun: Anatomy of an Excavation
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