This ceramic figurine depicts Bes, the ancient Egyptian god known for his role as a defender and protector. In this representation, Bes assumes the form of a warrior with distinct leonine and human features. Bes, considered one of the “domestic deities,”...
The Chnoubis amulet showcases a lion-headed serpent facing left. Its serpent form, intricately coiled, is adorned with seven or twelve rays encircling its head, sometimes arranged in pairs.The lion-headed snake design embodies the strength of a lion and solar...
This limestone statue has the face of a falcon and body of a crocodile, representing the god Soknopaios. Soknopaios was an important creator deity for the Egyptians, whose name means “Sobek of Dimeh in the Fayum.” Crocodile deities were popular throughout...
This faience amulet exhibits Bes in a vigilant pose. With a blend of human and leonine features, Bes wears a feathered headdress and squats with his hands resting on his knees, leaving his phallus exposed. A hole through the amulet’s head suggests its use as a...
This 2nd–3rd century CE object is the top half of a plaster mold that was used to cast terracotta figurines of Isis or Aphrodite, or more likely a syncretistic union of these two iconic goddesses, which scholars have designated “Isis-Aphrodite.” There are three main...
This painted jar, dating from the late Roman period to the beginning of the Byzantine period, offers a glimpse into the material culture of ancient Egypt. The most captivating feature of the jar is a wide band that spans the main body. It is divided into five...
This small wooden top is an example of an “action toy” excavated from Karanis. Toys like this one, similar to designs today, developed children’s sensorimotor skills. The wooden top could have been used for either individualized play or in group...
This terracotta figurine represents Aphrodite, the goddess of love. During Egypt’s Graeco-Roman period, Aphrodite held a prominent place in both mythology and religious worship. Known for her association with beauty, femininity, and romance, Aphrodite was...
This clay eye is an example of an anatomical votive most likely dedicated to a healing deity. The dedicator of this clay eye may have been vision impaired and was seeking help from a healing god, such as Asclepius. Practically any body part that was in need of healing...
This is a Roman male votive figurine from the Republican period that has traces of black and red paint. There is also a small hole on the backside of the figurine that could have been used for hanging the portrait.
