Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Date

2021

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy

Department

History

Committee Chair

Suzanne Onstine

Committee Member

Peter Brand

Committee Member

Patricia Podzorski

Committee Member

Ellen Morris

Abstract

The purpose of this dissertation is to better understand the role of female figurines in ancient Egypt. Through the use of several key example types, paddle dolls, faience female figurines (Pinchs Type 1), and ceramic female figurines (Pinchs Type 2 and 3), the differences in use and function of these objects is discussed. These objects have previously been categorized as fertility figurines; however, as this dissertation demonstrates not all female figurines function in the same manner. Furthermore, this dissertation makes use of feminist and gender theory to formulate questions concerning the role of female figurines in ancient Egypt and the concept of fertility. Lastly, through the use of archaeological context, material, and iconography it is clear that paddle dolls, faience, and ceramic female figurines when found in tomb contexts were likely related to magical midwives and functioned as such. By contrast, the ceramic female figurines found within in domestic contexts may have functioned as fertility figurine, thus highlighting that nude representations of women may have had many uses in ancient Egypt.

Comments

Data is provided by the student.

Library Comment

Dissertation or thesis originally submitted to ProQuest

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