Anubis as Defender of Osiris / Dionysus (?)
Elements from Egyptian and Greek mythology are combined in this delicate figure. The view taken here is that Anubis is represented, wearing military costume and breastplate that signify his role as a fighter against the enemies of Osiris. He holds a staff topped by a cone-shaped object - the thyrsus carried by followers of Dionysus with whom the Greeks equated Osiris. In his other hand he carries a falcon.
On the other hand, the snout and ears appear short for Anubis and more like those of a cat, and the short dress can be worn by Artemis who is associated with Bastet. The identity of the figure is, therefore, not certain.
On the other hand, the snout and ears appear short for Anubis and more like those of a cat, and the short dress can be worn by Artemis who is associated with Bastet. The identity of the figure is, therefore, not certain.
Artwork Details
- Title: Anubis as Defender of Osiris / Dionysus (?)
- Period: Roman Period
- Date: A.D. 2nd–3rd century, probably
- Geography: From Egypt
- Medium: gold
- Dimensions: Height: 1 15/16 in. (4.9 cm)
- Credit Line: Rogers Fund, 1967
- Object Number: 67.190
- Curatorial Department: Egyptian Art
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41–68 CE
2nd century A.D.
ca. 1st–2nd century
A.D. 1st–2nd century
ca. A.D. 161–180
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