Description
A large piece measuring 9 ½ inches high, carved from a reddish-buff color stone, it exhibits all the characteristics of a relatively prosperous yet discordant period in the life of ancient Egypt. Its Ptolemaic rulers were both of “foreign” stock but also admirers of Egyptian culture and eager to repeat and continue its traditions.
Great changes were set afoot, however, with the arrival of ancient Greek Hellenistic culture that dominated the ancient world henceforth. This large stone carving is probably an example of these changes in traditions. Carved in the late Ptolemaic Period, it repeats the forms and appearance of ancient Egyptian prototypes, but its own time is readily apparent in the relatively “shallow” sculptural form and lack of artistic rigor.
Never-the-less it has an impressive size and pleasing appearance.
Condition: Excellent, no breaks, no repairs. Presented on a carved shaped stone pedestal.
Provenance: California Estate sale.
