Aegis of Bastet

Unknown

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

The aegis is an object that comprises the bust of a deity with a broad collar below it. A menat, a counterpoise that hangs at the back of the neck, hangs behind the aegis and balances the weight of the heavy, elaborate collar on the chest. The aegis-menat combination was not only a personal adornment but also played an important role in cult. It was a protective symbol and was used in rituals and festivals; the head allowed the deity to inhabit the ritual instrument and thus take part in the ceremonies. In this case, a lion-headed goddess is represented wearing a sun disk. These types of ritual objects are most closely associated with goddesses, especially Bastet, who may be shown here in her leonine form. This aegis has a large suspension loop at the back, possibly for use as an amulet. It also could have been held by a goddess, such as Bastet, who is frequently shown in copper alloy carrying aegises with anthropomorphic female or lion heads.

Artist

Unknown

Date

664–30 B.C.

Medium

Cupreous metal

Department

Egyptian Art

Credit line

Gift of Joseph W. Drexel, 1889