Head of a Man

Egyptian, Classical, Ancient Near Eastern Art

On View: Egypt Reborn: Art for Eternity, 19th Dynasty to Roman Period, Martha A. and Robert S. Rubin Gallery, 3rd Floor

The somewhat broad and imprecise carving of this idealizing head may represent a provincial style of the region of Dendera. It may also be a harbinger of the dramatic decline in private statuary that occurred by the late first century B.C. A rosette is symbolic of light and regeneration, and a rosette diadem sometimes symbolizes posthumous deification. However, here the diadem may be the insignia of a provincial governorship or a priesthood.

MEDIUM Basalt

Possible Place Made: Dendera, Egypt

DATES 30 B.C.E.-14 C.E.

PERIOD Roman Period

DIMENSIONS Height: 15 7/16 in. (39.2 cm)

 

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