Late Period Egyptian Faience Amulet Depicting the God Bes, circa 700 – 332 BCE

Description

glazed faience of deep turquoise blue, the protector god shown full-faced with grotesque mask-like facial features surrounded by a lions mane, with protruding ears.  Pierced for attachment.

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.

Dimensions: Height: 3/4 inch (2 cm) 

Condition: Intact and in good condition overall. 

Provenance: S. Ripstein private collection, acquired from Antiquarium, NYC in 1994