Scarab with the Representation of Hathor as Cow
The underside of the scarab is incised with a representation of a recumbent cow, a papyrus thicket and the hieroglyph for protection. This combination of motifs and signs may call upon the protection of a cow goddess. Goddesses such as Hathor, Hesat and Mehet-Weret use bovine representations, which are relatively rare on seal-amulets, but when found are generally of Third Intermediate Period (ca. 1070-664 B.C.) to Late Period (ca. 664-525 B.C.) date. The papyrus thicket is closely associated with the marshes of the Nile Delta, as is the goddess Hathor and so it is likely that this sacred cow refers to Hathor.
Artwork Details
- Title: Scarab with the Representation of Hathor as Cow
- Period: Third Intermediate Period or Late Period
- Dynasty: Dynasty 25–26
- Date: ca. 733–525 B.C.
- Geography: From Egypt
- Medium: Steatite
- Dimensions: L. 1.5 cm (9/16 in.)
- Credit Line: Gift of Joseph W. Drexel, 1889
- Object Number: 89.2.588
- Curatorial Department: Egyptian Art
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ca. 332–200 B.C.
4th century B.C.
360–343 BCE
278–270 B.C.
690–610 B.C.
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