Stela of Pekysis

Roman Period
1st century B.C.–A.D. 4th century
On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 138
Flanked by Anubis and Osiris are four figures identified by the Greek inscription: "Pekysis, son of Aruotes, and his brother Pachoumis; Tbaikis the elder and Tbaikis the younger." Pekysis is probably the individual holding a torch, an attribute unusual in Egyptian-style funerary stelae, although it does have chthonic or underworld associations in Greco-Roman mythology. Anubis carries the key that symbolizes his role as guardian of the tomb and the one having access to the underworld.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Stela of Pekysis
  • Period: Roman Period
  • Date: 1st century B.C.–A.D. 4th century
  • Geography: From Egypt, Northern Upper Egypt, Abydos, Graeco-Roman Cemetery, Tomb 193, Garstang excavations 1907
  • Medium: Limestone
  • Dimensions: H. 38 cm (14 15/16 in.)
  • Credit Line: Rogers Fund, 1920
  • Object Number: 20.2.44
  • Curatorial Department: Egyptian Art

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