Nebethetepet or Nehemetaui

Unknown

664–30 B.C. · Cupreous metal · Egyptian Art

Nebethetepet is shown standing in the long, form-fitting dress typical for many goddesses and wearing a sistrum as a crown. Nebethetepet was a Heliopolitan goddess, the female counterpart to Atum in the creation of the world. The sistrum, a musical instrument used in processions and rituals, alludes to her associations with the goddess Hathor, with whom the sistrum was closely related. Representations of Nebethetepet in copper alloy are rare as her cult was not widespread, although statuettes have been found at multiple sites including Sais, Memphis, and Saqqara. Alternatively, she could be identified as Nehemetaui, a spouse of Thoth.

Artist

Unknown

Date

664–30 B.C.

Medium

Cupreous metal

Department

Egyptian Art

Credit line

Gift of Lily S. Place, 1921