What can the size of the handprint suggest about its owner?

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The handprint's size suggests the owner may have been a younger individual or a junior craftsperson.

The discovery of a rare, complete handprint on a 4,000-year-old Egyptian soul house offers a unique glimpse into the past. This artifact, crafted between 2055 and 1650 BC, features a handprint left by its maker as they moved the clay object before it was dried and fired. The print, which clearly shows all fingers and the heel of the hand, is notably small, comparable in size to the curator's own hand.
Possible owner characteristics based on size

The relatively small size of the handprint has led to speculation about the owner's identity. Senior curator and egyptologist Helen Strudwick noted that the print is "about the same size as my own hand." She further suggested that if it belonged to a man, the scale might indicate that the individual was younger. Alternatively, it is possible that a more junior member of the workshop was responsible for handling the object at that stage of its creation.
Context of ancient Egyptian craftspeople

Understanding the social standing of craftspeople in ancient Egypt provides a broader context for this discovery. Pottery was generally considered a low-value commodity, which may have resulted in potters holding a lower social status compared to other artisans. The history of these craftspeople has often been overlooked by researchers, though modern methods are increasingly shedding light on their lives and work.
The soul house artifact

The soul house itself is described as a clay offering tray shaped like a building. Such artifacts may have served various purposes in tombs, potentially for presenting food offerings or as a dwelling for souls. This particular piece dates from the Middle Kingdom period of ancient Egypt, specifically between 2055 and 1650 BC.
Significance of the finding

The completeness of the handprint is considered exceptional, with conservators and curators expressing that they have "never seen such a complete handprint on an Egyptian object before." This tactile connection to the past, allowing one to "feel very close to the person who left their mark," makes the finding particularly exciting. The artifact is set to be displayed at the Fitzwilliam Museum's "Made in Ancient Egypt" exhibition, focusing on the makers of ancient Egyptian objects.

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What can the size of the handprint suggest about its owner?

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