Apis Bull
1 of 2
Object Label
The cult of the Apis bull at Memphis was one of the oldest cults in Egypt, dating to Dynasty I and perhaps even the Predynastic Period. The Apis bull was a manifestation of the god Ptah and an intermediary for that god as well, thus endowed with oracular powers. At the death of an Apis bull, the underground burial chambers where his mummy would be interred were opened for a period of seventy days. During that time, private individuals would erect stelae and leave votive offerings for the deceased bull, asking for benefits like good health and longevity for themselves and their kin. This bronze is quite likely such a votive.
Caption
Apis Bull, 381–343 B.C.E.. Bronze, 3 9/16 × 1 1/8 × 2 3/4 in. (9 × 2.9 × 7 cm) As mounted: 5 1/8 × 2 3/16 × 3 in. (13 × 5.5 × 7.6 cm). Brooklyn Museum, Charles Edwin Wilbour Fund, 05.367. (Photo: Brooklyn Museum)
Gallery
Not on view
Gallery
Not on view
Title
Apis Bull
Date
381–343 B.C.E.
Dynasty
Dynasty 30
Period
Late Period
Medium
Bronze
Classification
Dimensions
3 9/16 × 1 1/8 × 2 3/4 in. (9 × 2.9 × 7 cm) As mounted: 5 1/8 × 2 3/16 × 3 in. (13 × 5.5 × 7.6 cm)
Credit Line
Charles Edwin Wilbour Fund
Accession Number
05.367
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