7-The Mastaba of Idu at Giza

The tomb of Idu, numbered G 7102 in the Eastern cemetery, lies to the east of the tomb of Qar and to the north of the much older mastaba of prince Kawab. Only a few remnants of the tomb’s masonry are preserved today above ground.

The niche with a statue in the west wall of Idu’s offering chamber is highly exceptional. The bottom half of the false door is formed by a rock-cut half-length engaged statue of Idu whose hands are extended forward to receive offerings. The offering table was placed in front of him on the floor where the relatives of the deceased brought food and drinks to feed his soul. 

Idu’s statue thus expresses the ancient Egyptian belief that the soul of the deceased entered through a false door from the other world to this world to get its sustenance. Idu is depicted with a full figure, large belly and breasts, which are a sign of his well-being and wealth. The old Kingdom, 6th Dynasty, ca. 2345-2181 BC.