Apis Bull
381-343 B.C.E.
Maker Unknown
Egyptian, Classical, Ancient Near Eastern Art
The cult of the Apis bull at Memphis was one of the oldest cults in Egypt, dating to Dynasty I and perhaps even the Predynastic Period. The Apis bull was a manifestation of the god Ptah and an intermediary for that god as well, thus endowed with oracular powers. At the death of an Apis bull, the underground burial chambers where his mummy would be interred were opened for a period of seventy days. During that time, private individuals would erect stelae and leave votive offerings for the deceased bull, asking for benefits like good health and longevity for themselves and their kin. This bronze is quite likely such a votive.
- Maker/Artist
- Maker Unknown
- Classification
- Sculpture
- Formatted Medium
- Bronze
- Medium
- bronze
- Dynasty
- Dynasty 30
- Period
- Late Period
- Dimensions
- 3 9/16 × 1 1/8 × 2 3/4 in. (9 × 2.9 × 7 cm) As mounted: 5 1/8 × 2 3/16 × 3 in. (13 × 5.5 × 7.6 cm)
- Accession Number
- 05.367
- Credit Line
- Charles Edwin Wilbour Fund
- Exhibitions
- Jewish Life in Ancient Egypt
- Rights Statement
- Creative Commons-BY
- Museum Location
- This item is not on view
Have a concern, a correction, or something to add?
