Earring with head of ibex

Unknown

3rd–2nd century BC · Gold · Egyptian Art

Hoops formed of wound wire with animal head terminals are the commonest type of Hellenistic earring. The heads on these earrings have been referred to as those of gazelles, but is now thought more likely to be an ibex. Ibex-head earrings are well-known in Egypt, but also Asia Minor and Cyprus. The gold bead that forms part of the collar behind the animal's head is scarcely rounded, pointing to a 3rd or probably 2nd century date.

Artist

Unknown

Date

3rd–2nd century BC

Medium

Gold

Department

Egyptian Art

Credit line

Gift of George and Florence Blumenthal, 1935