Crocodile Coffin
664–332 B.C.E.
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Object Label
The Egyptians offered crocodile mummies to the god Sobek to request his help with life’s daily problems. Juvenile crocodiles were used in this practice because the full-grown adults were so dangerous.
The ancient Greek historian Herodotus devoted two chapters of his history of Egypt to crocodile worship. For the Greeks, this was an especially exotic element of Egyptian religion.
The ancient Greek historian Herodotus devoted two chapters of his history of Egypt to crocodile worship. For the Greeks, this was an especially exotic element of Egyptian religion.
Caption
Crocodile Coffin, 664–332 B.C.E.. Wood, pigment, 3 x 2 1/2 x 8 1/8 in. (7.6 x 6.4 x 20.6 cm). Brooklyn Museum, Charles Edwin Wilbour Fund, 37.1367E. (Photo: Brooklyn Museum)
Gallery
Not on view
Gallery
Not on view
Title
Crocodile Coffin
Date
664–332 B.C.E.
Dynasty
Dynasty 26 to Dynasty 30
Period
Late Period
Geography
Place made: Egypt
Medium
Wood, pigment
Classification
Dimensions
3 x 2 1/2 x 8 1/8 in. (7.6 x 6.4 x 20.6 cm)
Credit Line
Charles Edwin Wilbour Fund
Accession Number
37.1367E
Frequent Art Questions
Who did the crocodile get offered to?
The god Sobek, who was associated with military power, and fertility. Most animals who live in the Nile are associated with fertility, because the river is the source of all life in Egypt.
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