Weaving combs are used to beat or compress weft yarns against previous rows, ensuring that the final textile has a consistent density. This large weaving comb was made from three pieces of wood joined with pegs, decorated with a concentric circle design. It is one of...
This is a miniature comb, excavated from Karanis, that was most likely used in children’s play activities. Today, many children play with miniatures of “adult” objects to learn behaviors and mimic social interactions; this comb may have served a...
This knife provides a glimpse into the agricultural practices of Roman-era Egypt. Designed with a slightly curved blade, its purpose was to delicately cut grape clusters from vines. The Karanis collection includes various agricultural implements and processing...
This small wooden top is an example of an “action toy” excavated from Karanis. Toys like this one, similar to designs today, developed children’s sensorimotor skills. The wooden top could have been used for either individualized play or in group...
