跳转到内容
SKU: EA2608

An Egyptian bright blue faience Bes amulet, New Kingdom, 1539-1077 BCE

促销价格¥20,470.00 CNY

This object qualifies for free USA shipping and a flat rate fee of $75 if shipping internationally.

Of rich blue faience, the protector god portrayed as a nude dwarf on an integrated base. He wears a large feather crown that surmounts grotesque facial features, with protruding tongue and the ears and mane of a lion. Shown standing on bandy legs with his hands on either side of his protruding belly, his tail between his legs, and a suspension loop above.

Background: This dwarf-like, protective deity was very popular in ancient Egypt. Known as early as the Middle Kingdom (ca. 2000 BC), Bes was venerated as a protector of the home, family, and childbirth, and for that reason figures prominently in domestic magic and amulets. His close connection to all aspects of fertility and sexuality is demonstrated by the presence of his image in the "Birth-houses", shrines associated with temples of the Late and Greco-Roman periods. He also had a special relation to the goddess Hathor and performed in her retinue as a musician and dancer. 

Medium: Faience

Dimensions: Height: 1 1/2 Inches (3.5 cm)

Condition:  Intact and in very good condition overall.

Provenance:  Nora Scott (July 14, 1905 – April 4, 1994), Curator of Egyptian Art at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, (retired 1972), and acquired from the Metropolitan Museum of Art by deaccession. Gifted to L. Virginia Burton (1918–2009) Associate Curator of Egyptian Art at the Metropolitan Museum of Art (retired 1977), and then by descent.

QUESTIONS? Just click the Contact Us tab on your right.

Recently viewed