Techniques of bronze casting, which originated in Mesopotamia and Bronze Age cultures such as the Sumer civilisation, soon reached Egypt with the widening of trade networks. It immediately had a significant impact on Egyptian artistic traditions, including sculpture and jewellery. The materiality of bronze made it well suited to these disciplines, as the metal could be easily manipulated to create precise detail, as well as melted down and reused if needed. The best of Egyptian bronzes are often considered to originate from between the Third Intermediate Period and the Late Period. After this point, fine craftsmanship began to make way for more mass produced sculptures. Priest figurines, such as this fine example, were commonly placed before a larger figurine of a deity.
Ancient Egyptian Bronze Figurine of a Kneeling Priest
£ 395.00
An ancient Egyptian bronze figurine depicting a kneeling priest. The figure is portrayed on his knees, with cropped hair and a wide garment covering his thighs and draping onto the rectangular base. Both his hands are raised in adoration, though his right forearm is now missing. The facial features have been rendered through delicate incisions, with the eyes, ears, lips, and nose still visible. A tang extends from the underside of the base to the stand for attachment. The figurine has been mounted on a custom-made rectangular black stand.
Measurements for the figurine: (circa) Height 3.3cm x Width 0.9cm x Length 1.5cm.
Period: Late Period
Provenance: From an early 20th century Home Counties, UK, collection.
Condition: Good condition. Some patination and earthy encrustations to the surface. Signs of wear such as light scratches and surface pitting. The upper right arm is missing.
In stock
| Weight | 40 g |
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| Dimensions | L 7.4 x W 4.5 x H 4.8 cm |
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