Image credit: Ethan Doyle White / Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 4.0 · 2017-10-12 ↗
Relief of Senusret I before the god Min (UC14786)
Bloomsbury / UCL · Marylebone → Fitzrovia → Bloomsbury · Ancient Egypt / museum object / censorship story
Story
This nearly four-thousand-year-old Egyptian object is not only a historical fragment but also a fascinating testament to how cultural sensibilities and notions of modesty change over time. The relief, which comes from Koptos and dates to the reign of Senusret I, depicts the pharaoh performing a ceremonial run before Min, the fertility god, who is shown with an erect phallus. Curiously, the figure of Min has been subject to censorship in more recent times. The Egyptologist Margaret Murray once covered the depiction with a cardboard label, and decades later, there were still reservations about lending this part of the object to other exhibitions, reflecting a modern history of how ancient art is perceived and displayed.
What to look for
Look for a Middle Kingdom relief depicting Pharaoh Senusret I performing a ceremonial run before the god Min. The key detail to observe is the representation of Min, who is shown with an erect phallus.
Secret detail
In the early 20th century, Egyptologist Margaret Murray once covered Min's figure with a cardboard label to obscure his phallus. Decades later, there were still reservations about lending this part of the relief to other exhibitions.
Where exactly
The object is located inside the Petrie Museum, at Malet Place. Its exact case position can change, so if you cannot find it, ask staff for accession number UC14786.
Orientation
Once inside the Petrie Museum, follow the visitor signage. If the display has moved or you cannot find the relief, do not hesitate to ask staff for the object using accession number UC14786.
Why it matters
This relief not only connects you with ancient Egypt and its deities but also offers a unique insight into how modern attitudes towards the body and sexuality have influenced the exhibition and perception of millennia-old artworks in Western museums.
Access & opening
Current UCL visitor information: Tue–Sat 13:00–17:00; closed Mon/Sun; no ordinary booking required. Object may be temporarily off display.
Free
We never show live status. Check opening hours before you go.
Accessibility
Use current Petrie/UCL access guidance.