Ritual tradition and transfer between shape and meaning – model beer jars in stone and pottery

Abstract

Recent research of vessels made in stone and pottery, undertaken by the present authors, proves the existence of a strong interconnection and transfer of shapes between these two materials. The aim of this paper is to follow one particular group of vessels, namely that of beer jars, and their possible models in stone and ceramic. These miniatures or models represent an example of ideological transformation and at the same time ritual tradition in the meaning and function of such vessels. Such morphological influence was often transferable but could later lead to an independent development of a new type. The authors herein discuss the paths of formal inspiration, the process of changes and the influence on the examples of regular large-size beer jars made in pottery and compare them to ceramic and stone model beer jars. The article introduces the source of inspiration for the model vessels, their purpose, and further evolution during the course of the Old Kingdom.

Keywords

• Old Kingdom
• model
• miniature
• beer jar
• pottery
• stone vessels