egypt-museum:

Striding Male Figure

Wooden statues from Egypt’s Old Kingdom were often damaged by the natural conditions of rot and insects, as well as the wanton destruction wrought by tomb robbers. This fortunate survivor probably represents a nobleman or an official. Striding forward with assurance, he grasps the loose end of his kilt and pulls it aside in an elegant flourish that may represent a gesture of adoration or supplication. 

The delicate figure is remarkable for the subtle modeling of the body beneath the pleated skirt, the careful details in the carving of the fingernails, and the distinctive inlaid nipples of ebony. Wooden sculptures of the deceased, like this one, were placed in various parts of tombs and in varying numbers, depending on the traditions that were popular during different Old Kingdom dynasties.

Old Kingdom, 6th Dynasty, reign of Pepi II, ca. 2278-2247 BC. Now in the Saint Louis Art Museum. 1:1986