1-277-539 - Art Media/Heritage Images

Ancient Egyptian tomb model, 22nd-19th century BC. The Ancient Egyptians believed that the deceased would have the same need for food and the other requirements of daily life in the afterlife as when they were alive. To ensure these needs would be met they placed detailed models of people performing the necessary tasks in tombs. They believed that the model people possessed spirits that would pass over into the afterlife and provide for the deceased. This example dates from the 11th or 12th Dynasty. Located in the Louvre, Paris.