Collection
/
Egyptian, Classical, Ancient Near Eastern Art

Head of Youth

2nd century B.C.E. (possibly)

1 of 16

Object Label

Made by a Greek sculptor in the Egyptian capital of Alexandria, this head reveals characteristics of both Greek and Egyptian art. It has "macaroni-curl" Greek hair and was created in marble, a material favored by Greek artists. The eyes, however, are shaped like those of Egyptian-style works.

All the sculptures in this case are roughly contemporary, demonstrating the use of both Egyptian and Greek styles in second-century Alexandria.

Caption

Head of Youth, 2nd century B.C.E. (possibly). Marble, Height: 6 1/8 in. (15.5 cm). Brooklyn Museum, Charles Edwin Wilbour Fund, 63.184. (Photo: Brooklyn Museum)

Gallery

Not on view

Title

Head of Youth

Date

2nd century B.C.E. (possibly)

Period

Ptolemaic Period

Geography

Possible place collected: Alexandria, Egypt

Medium

Marble

Classification

Sculpture

Dimensions

Height: 6 1/8 in. (15.5 cm)

Credit Line

Charles Edwin Wilbour Fund

Accession Number

63.184

Frequent Art Questions

  • Why is this here?

    This was made during the Ptolemaic Period when Egypt was part of the Hellenistic (Greek) world. This sculpture incorporates traits of both artistic styles. The eye shape is especially Egyptian and both Ancient Egyptians and Hellenistic people idealized youth.
    The hair looks Greek too.
    Yes, very true! During the Hellenistic period, artists incorporated established forms from both Egyptian and Greek cultures into their work.

  • It’s this a Greek sculpture?

    This head was sculpted in Egypt, but it was made by a Greek artist. After Alexander the Great took over Egypt, one of his generals, Ptolemy, started a new Dynasty of Greek kings of Egypt.
    Life remained similar for most Egyptians, but new Greek communities did form in Egypt. The largest and most influential Greek community was at Alexandria where this head was made.
    Thanks

Have information?

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