Bes carrying a ram over his shoulders

Unknown

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

This figure has notable elements of the iconography of Bes - feathers atop the massive head, a pelt knotted around his neck, and a squat powerful body. On the other hand, Bes's usual lined face and thrusting tongue are omitted so the figure looks somewhat unfamiliar. In addition, Bes carries what appears to be a goat over his shoulders. Potentially related images in Egypt can be noted: Bes is sometimes associated with caprids, Egyptian offering bearers carrying calves and antelope-like animals over their shoulders are frequently represented in reliefs, and Hellenistic depictions of dwarves also often carry similar animals. On the other hand, among Egyptian terracottas the Greek god Pan normally carries a goat, and Bes and Pan were certainly sometimes related, as for instance to the 'master of animals' figure on Cyprus.

Artist

Unknown

Date

664–30 B.C.

Medium

Cupreous metal

Department

Egyptian Art

Credit line

Gift of Lily S. Place, 1923