An Egyptian Bronze Aegis of Isis, Late Period, 26th Dynasty, ca. 664 - 525 BCE

A finely cast bronze aegis of the goddess Isis, from Egypt’s Late Period. Isis is depicted frontally with a serene, well-modeled face framed by a finely striated tripartite wig, and wearing the horned crown of Hathor with a large central solar disc. The uraeus (rearing cobra) prominently crowns her headdress, emphasizing her divine authority and protective power. The lower arc of the aegis is decorated with a band of sixteen rearing cobras (uraei)—a rare and symbolically potent motif representing the goddess's role as a protector and mother of the king.

Her facial features are beautifully rendered, with deeply recessed eyes that may originally have been inlaid. The bronze surface shows areas of blue-green patina, with preserved dark undertones enhancing the sculptural definition. Mounted on a museum-quality custom base, this type of object likely served as a ritual or temple fitting, possibly worn in processions or affixed to cult statues or ceremonial furniture.

see: Carol Andrews, Amulets of Ancient Egypt, British Museum Press, 1994, p. 28 and for a related example see: M. Page-Gasser and A. B. Wiese, Égypte, moments d'éternité: art égyptien dans les collections privées suisses, Mainz, 1997, no. 171B. Also see G. Roeder, Ägyptische Bronzefiguren, Berlin, 1956, pl. 64d. 

Medium: Bronze

Dimensions: Height: 3 5/8 inches (9.2 cm), Width: 2 1/2 inches (6.35 cm)

Condition: Intact and in excellent condition. Original detailing sharp; minor surface pitting and blue-green patination consistent with ancient bronze. No restorations. Mounted securely for display.

Provenance: Bonhams, early 2000s antiquities sale, thereafter New York City private collection.