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Ancient Egyptian Terracotta Harpocrates Statue, LARGE browse these categories for related items... All Items: Antiques:Regional Art:Ancient World:Egyptian:Sculpture: Pre AD 1000: item # 739156
KHRONOS ANCIENT ART Patrick B.M. van Kooten Kingston, Ontario Canada Guest Book $669 |
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STOCK #: AE060518-01RS CULTURE: Ancient Egyptian DATE: c. Late Period - Ptolemaic Period, 712 B.C. - 30 B.C. (Possibly Second half of the Late Period or Early Roman Period but most likely Ptolemaic [332-30 B.C.].) MATERIAL(S): Nile Clay (Terracotta) DIMENSIONS: 7.95" (20.2 cm) with custom stand (included), 7.08" (18 cm) without. CONDITION: Sizeable and fully intact with good detail. There are few stable cracks, some of which can be seen in the photos, which do not detract from the overall presentation. Also, there are darker coloured (pigmented) areas on the surface and what appears to be some scorching. It is unclear whether this occurred during manufacture or later on. However, the piece displays well and has tonnes of character. COMMENTS: Statues like this one, hollow moulded from Nile clay, were frequently placed as votive offerings in temples. Depicted is the god Harpocrates / Harpokrates which is the Greek version of the Egyptian, Har-pa-chered, also known as "Horus the Child" in modern English. He is represented as a nude child (note his sidelock of youth) wearing the "Pschent" or Double Crown of Upper and Lower Egypt. He holds his finger to his mouth, a gesture symbolizing childhood in ancient Egyptian art. This gesture was misconstrued by the Greek and Roman conquerors as an exhortation of silence and consequently adopted Harpocrates as the God of secrecy and silence. Note also his large, elongated phallus which is believed to have been a symbol of fertility. Although this votive figure shares many common attributes with others of its kind, there are a few aspects that set this statue apart. With exaggerated details, the piece is somewhat naïve in comparison with more typical specimens. Another interesting feature is how chubby the figure is, featuring an obvious pot belly. Finally, Harpocrates is depicted here holding an animal under his left arm; perhaps a lamb or a small goat. All considered this votive statue will make a lovely and unique addition to any collection of authentic ancient art! PROVENANCE: From an old American collection. The figure comes with original paperwork, including an old receipt and item card from a Californian gallery. Full provenance will be provided to the purchaser. *Prices are in USD and item is guaranteed authentic. Please see our Sales Policy and AUTHENTICITY GUARANTEE for full details. |
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