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Collections: Egyptian, Classical, and Ancient Middle Eastern Art: Sphinx of King Sheshenq

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Sphinx of King Sheshenq

The sphinx was one of many composite beings created by the ancient Egyptians. Such images were not simply combinations of human and animal forms; they emphasized the more-than-human aspects of the subject.

Small figures of sphinxes were made as temple offerings or as part of the decoration of cult objects. When added to ritual objects, sphinxes such as this served a protective role. The figure is inscribed for a King Sheshenq, but we cannot be certain which of the five pharaohs named Sheshenq is shown.

Medium: Bronze
Place Made: Egypt
Dates: ca. 945-718 B.C.E.
Dynasty: XXII Dynasty-XXIII Dynasty
Period: Third Intermediate Period
Dimensions: 1 5/16 x 2 11/16 in. (3.4 x 6.8 cm)
Collections: Egyptian, Classical, and Ancient Middle Eastern Art
Museum Location: This item is on view in Egypt Reborn: Art for Eternity, Egyptian Cosmos, Martha A. and Robert S. Rubin Gallery, 3rd Floor
Accession Number: 33.586
Credit Line: Charles Edwin Wilbour Fund
Image: Right, 33.586_SL1.jpg. Brooklyn Museum photograph

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