Egyptology – Funerary Shabtis of Ancient Egypt

The origin of the shabti in ancient Egyptian civilization is a debated issue. Nevertheless, by the time of Dynasty XII of the Middle Kingdom (about 1991–1782 BC), shabtis gradually become a fixed feature of the funerary panoply of elite members of Egyptian society.

“Contrary to popular opinion, these statuettes were not anciently regarded as servants who might magically attend to every whim of their owners. Rather, they were intended to serve as surrogates for both aristocrats and pharaohs of both sexes who were expected to respond to the roll call in the hereafter,” illuminates Samuel Merrin of the Merrin Gallery in New York.

Also known as an ushabti, the word “shabti” derives from the ancient Egyptian word for “the responder”. They were to perform specific work of an enigmatic nature which primarily entailed the cultivation of fields, the irrigation of the river banks, and “the ferrying of sand of the east to the west and vice-versa”.

Maya Art – Among Samuel Merrin's Favorites

This cylindrical terracotta Mayan war vase, depicting a battle scene, is one of Samuel Merrin's favorite pieces. (Although recomposed from several pieces, it is complete.) An excellent specimen of ancient South American art, originating from the late-Classic period (600-800 AD), a 360° view of the Mayan war vase reveals its beauty and pristine condition. Samuel Merrin vividly adds:

As a child, in the mid to late 1960s, I remember my father, Edward Merrin, displaying this magnificent vase in our house. He had two vases in his private collection, this war vase and a carved vase now in the Kimbell Art Museum in Fort Worth, Texas. The painting is beautifully done with the lines of the figures bold and elegant. This is the last one of a group of six vases still in private hands.

This magnificent and important polychrome painted vase is one of a group of vases that has been identified by an individual (anonymous) artist. The group is identified as the “Fenton School” as after its namesake vase in the collection of the British Museum (collected in the late 18th century in the area of Nebaj, Guatemala).

Roundup: Past Few Merrin Months

Consolidating fall '10 and winter '10/11 at the Samuel Merrin & Gallery blog.

Notably includes a look at Samuel Merrin's professional work – through matters concerning clients of The Merrin Gallery. As well as Samuel's personal life – through an exploration of artistic favorites, and NGO-involvement. (Note that all articles have been updated since their original publication.)

RECENTLY ON THE SAMUEL MERRIN & GALLERY BLOG:

Samuel Merrin's Favorite Artwork

An article touching on one of Samuel Merrin's favorites pieces of art, included a rotating look the piece through a an all-around 360 video. A more detailed look at the piece itself, and the history behind can be expected on Samuel Merrin & Gallery shortly, but the article has been updated with a list of publications and detailed specifications of Samuel's vase.

Samuel Merrin & Confidentiality

An article detailing Samuel Merrin's buying practices and the handling of clients' privacy also (shortly) touched on, for example, his ability to buy back older collections. As well as The Merrin Gallery's competitive edge on auction houses like Sothebie's.

Effective & Worthwhile NGOs

"When we grow old, there can only be one regret – not to have given enough of ourselves." — Eleonora Duse. 

Engaging in NGO work is the best thing to do with one's free time. It becomes even more rewarding when you have no 'free time'. Alongside his work with antiquities for various organizations and museums, as well as running his own ancient art business, Mr. Samuel Merrin is deeply involved with several non-profit organizations.

Identified as reputable and effectual from first-hand experience, Samuel Merrin would like to invite others to 'join in' with some of these NGOs.

DOROT's University Without Walls is an e-learning, educational program for senior citizens that allows both students and teachers to work from home. It is highly advantageous to both parties as they each save time, expenses, and especially effort in travel – very practical for home-bound elderly people. The students are instructed by hobbyists, academics or even leading experts in their fields, who are able to pass on their knowledge to people that have already been through so much in life, but are still curious.

Video: Ancient Maya War Vase in 360°

New Year's greetings from Samuel Merrin and the Merrin Gallery! As Sam is one of the preeminent dealers in the field of ancient art, particularly that of pre-Columbian times, the Merrin Gallery has prepared an exclusive video of one of Samuel Merrin's favorite pieces, a war vase crafted by the Maya almost 3,000 years ago. Depicting a battle scene—it is a rarity among their works.

An all-around view of the vase illuminates both it's beauty and history, through the skillful mastery of the outer decoration:



Update: Read a detailed analysis of Mr. Merrin's Maya vase—on its history, meaning and uniqueness.