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Figure of a Baboon

Late Period (Saite)
664–525 BCE
On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 130
The baboon played an important role in ancient Egyptian religion. Originally, this animal was seen as the incarnation of a lunar deity known as "the Great White One" (the moon). Over time, this god became conflated with Thoth, the god of writing seen more often in the form of an ibis or ibis-headed man. In his baboon form, Thoth remained closely associated with the moon. This small figure, which may have been dedicated at a shrine, is shown squatting with its hands on its knees and its tail wrapped around to one side.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Figure of a Baboon
  • Period: Late Period (Saite)
  • Dynasty: Dynasty 26
  • Date: 664–525 BCE
  • Geography: From Egypt
  • Medium: Marble
  • Dimensions: H. 6 cm (2 3/8 in.)
  • Credit Line: Gift of Joseph W. Drexel, 1889
  • Object Number: 89.2.223
  • Curatorial Department: Egyptian Art

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