Head of Ptolemy II or III
Only the head of what was once a rather large bronze statuette is preserved. Examination has shown that the material is a black bronze, an ancient patination that would heighten precious metal inlays, and that the statue had an iron armature.
The king has the single-arc brow line and a generally idealized appearance that is found for kings of the fourth century through at least Ptolemy II. However, compared to fourth century kings, the wider eyes and somewhat thicker and flatter lips represent new tendencies best understood in the context of changes happening in the period of Ptolemy II and III.
The king has the single-arc brow line and a generally idealized appearance that is found for kings of the fourth century through at least Ptolemy II. However, compared to fourth century kings, the wider eyes and somewhat thicker and flatter lips represent new tendencies best understood in the context of changes happening in the period of Ptolemy II and III.
Artwork Details
- Title: Head of Ptolemy II or III
- Period: Ptolemaic Period
- Reign: reign of Ptolemy III Euergetes I
- Date: 246–222 B.C.
- Geography: From Egypt
- Medium: Black bronze
- Dimensions: H. 6.5 cm (2 9/16 in.); W. 3.5 cm (1 3/8 in.); D. 4.6 cm (1 13/16 in.)
- Credit Line: Purchase, Fletcher Fund and The Guide Foundation Inc. Gift, 1966
- Object Number: 66.99.134
- Curatorial Department: Egyptian Art
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ca. 664–525 BCE
332–30 BCE
ca. 712–664 B.C.
4th–2nd century B.C.
550–300 B.C.
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