Figurine of a Seated Woman

Late Naqada II

On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 101

This limestone figurine is the finest preserved of unusual group of Predynastic statuettes. These seated women display beak-like noses and missing or schematized arms. The hair, narrow waist and wide hips are clearly shown to emphasize female sexuality. The light colored surface created an ideal canvas for painted details, including jewelry and animal figures that scholars now believe are associated with a ritual activity. Her eyes were enhanced with green malachite and her elaborate coiffure was modeled separately using a mixture of plant matter and fats. She wears a series of necklaces in red and green beads and unusual beaded anklets.

#3211. Figurine of a Seated Woman

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Figurine of a Seated Woman, Limestone, organic material, paint, malachite

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Figurine of a Seated Woman, Limestone, organic material, paint, malachite
Figurine of a Seated Woman, Limestone, organic material, paint, malachite

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