About this artwork
Here the crocodile god Sobek, associated with water and the Nile River, wears an elaborate crown adorned with horns, feathers, and a uraeus (sacred serpent). Egyptian gods were commonly depicted with human bodies and animal heads. The animal referred to the god’s personality or characteristics, not his or her appearance. For example, the crocodile head of Sobek alludes to his fierceness. Statuettes like these were offered to the gods to ask for their help or in thanks for their assistance.
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Status
- Currently Off View
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Department
- Arts of Africa
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Culture
- Ancient Egyptian
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Title
- Statuette of Sobek
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Place
- Egypt (Object made in)
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Date
- 664 BCE–332 BCE
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Medium
- Copper alloy
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Dimensions
- 16.7 × 4.5 × 5 cm (6 5/8 × 1 7/8 × 2 in.)
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Credit Line
- Gift of Henry H. Getty, Charles L. Hutchinson, and Robert H. Fleming
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Reference Number
- 1894.260
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IIIF Manifest
- https://api.artic.edu/api/v1/artworks/120299/manifest.json
Extended information about this artwork
Object information is a work in progress and may be updated as new research findings emerge. To help improve this record, please email . Information about image downloads and licensing is available here.