Scarab with Baboons Adoring Bes
The Bes-image, that of an individual who combines characteristics of a dwarf and a lion, stands in a frontal view with his hands resting on his thighs, a tail hanging between his legs. He wears a headdress consisting of large plumes. On either side are baboons raising both hands towards the Bes-image in a gesture of adoration. The baboons are animals of Thoth, but the sun disks above their heads underscore their solar aspect so they are animals adoring the sun and therefore the Bes-image becomes a solar symbol.
Artwork Details
- Title: Scarab with Baboons Adoring Bes
- Period: New Kingdom
- Dynasty: Dynasty 19–20
- Date: ca. 1295–1070 B.C.
- Geography: From Egypt
- Medium: Steatite
- Dimensions: L. 1.8 cm (11/16 in.)
- Credit Line: Gift of J. Pierpont Morgan, 1905
- Object Number: 05.3.444
- Curatorial Department: Egyptian Art
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ca. 1479–1391 B.C.
ca. 1981–1975 B.C.
ca. 1070–712 BCE
ca. 1186–945 B.C.
ca. 1295–1070 B.C.
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