Head of Ptolemy II or III

Unknown

246–222 B.C. · Black bronze · Egyptian Art

Only the head of what was once a rather large bronze statuette is preserved. Examination has shown that the material is a black bronze, an ancient patination that would heighten precious metal inlays, and that the statue had an iron armature. The king has the single-arc brow line and a generally idealized appearance that is found for kings of the fourth century through at least Ptolemy II. However, compared to fourth century kings, the wider eyes and somewhat thicker and flatter lips represent new tendencies best understood in the context of changes happening in the period of Ptolemy II and III.

Artist

Unknown

Date

246–222 B.C.

Medium

Black bronze

Department

Egyptian Art

Credit line

Purchase, Fletcher Fund and The Guide Foundation Inc. Gift, 1966