An Egyptian Limestone Stele Fragment, New Kingdom, early 18th Dynasty, Reign of Ahhotep I (c. 1575-1530 BCE) - Amenhotep I (c. 1525-1504 BCE)

This finely carved fragmentary upper section of a New Kingdom limestone stele depicts a deceased male figure seated before an offering table, participating in a traditional funeral banquet. He is dressed in a short wig, collar, and kilt and is positioned on a backrest in front of the offering table, which is adorned with numerous offerings. His right hand is extended toward the offerings, while his left hand, placed across his chest in a symbol of rebirth, holds a folded bolt of white linen. Linen represents purity and eternal life, underscoring the stele's function as a lasting invocation for remembrance and ritual nourishment. The items have been arranged vertically atop the offering table to clearly display each type of food being offered. In this fragment, only the round and conical loaves of bread are visible; however, there would typically be other offerings, such as fruits, vegetables, and beverages like beer or wine. Food and drink offerings were common on these tables as they