Figure of a Scorpion
ca. 3200-3000 B.C.E.
Maker Unknown
Egyptian, Classical, Ancient Near Eastern Art
Early Sculpture
Almost all of the small figures in this case originally were placed in temples.
We do not know the significance of many of these early objects. The lion probably embodied divine or royal power, and frogs may have provided protection during childbirth, as in later times.
The figure of a squatting little boy in this case may have been offered to a god as the expression of a wish to bear children. The destructive powers of animals such as pigs, hippos, and scorpions could apparently be neutralized and even made useful through their images, as in the hippo-headed top of a mace (war club).
The ivory lioness was part of a common board game, of which partial sets have survived. The opposing side’s pieces were carved ivory figures of crouching lions or dogs.
Almost all of the small figures in this case originally were placed in temples.
We do not know the significance of many of these early objects. The lion probably embodied divine or royal power, and frogs may have provided protection during childbirth, as in later times.
The figure of a squatting little boy in this case may have been offered to a god as the expression of a wish to bear children. The destructive powers of animals such as pigs, hippos, and scorpions could apparently be neutralized and even made useful through their images, as in the hippo-headed top of a mace (war club).
The ivory lioness was part of a common board game, of which partial sets have survived. The opposing side’s pieces were carved ivory figures of crouching lions or dogs.
- Maker/Artist
- Maker Unknown
- Classification
- Sculpture
- Formatted Medium
- Egyptian alabaster
- Locations
- Place made: Egypt
- Dynasty
- early Dynasty 1 (probably)
- Dimensions
- 1 1/8 x 1 x 3 1/2 in. (2.9 x 2.5 x 8.9 cm)
- Accession Number
- 36.122
- Credit Line
- Charles Edwin Wilbour Fund
- Exhibitions
- Egypt Reborn: Art for Eternity, Ancient Egyptian Art
- Rights Statement
- Creative Commons-BY
- Museum Location
- Pre-Dynastic, Egyptian Galleries, 3rd Floor
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