Medium: Copper alloy
Geograhical Locations:
Dates:664–343 B.C.E.
Dimensions: 4 1/2 × 1 1/16 × 7/8 in. (11.4 × 2.7 × 2.3 cm) With Mount: 8 1/2 × 1 1/16 × 2 1/2 in. (21.6 × 2.7 × 6.4 cm)
Collections:
Exhibitions:
Accession Number: 37.921E
Image: 37.921E_front_PS2.jpg,
Catalogue Description: Bes stands, his right foot planted on Bast’s head, his left on her left shoulder. His instrument is of the lute family. The infant clings with his legs and to the goddess’ body but is also supported by her, her left hand is against his back, her right holds his left hand. There are three eyelets on the top of the headdress behind in a vertical position. The details of the headdress are rendered in front by incised lines. Green to black patina. The tail looks more as if a part of Bes and not a skin with tail thrown over the figure as in other figurines from the collection. The lower legs and feet with square plinth which have been broken off are lead. It looks as if the whole figure were lead which has been painted over to give the appearance of bronze. The brown to green surface is opaque and thick. There are three holes between right knee and body, between tail of Bes and body, between left elbow of Bes and body, and between the child’s left hand and the goddess’ body. Child’s right arm molded very deep. The whole may have been a harp. Hardly a mere votive statuette. Condition: Cu/black patina. Female figure is missing her lower legs. Much pitting on rear. One piece, solid cast. Surface in poor condition.