Sphinx of King Sheshenq

ca. 945–712 B.C.E.

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Object Label

The sphinx was one of many composite beings created by the ancient Egyptians. Such images were not simply combinations of human and animal forms; they emphasized the more-than-human aspects of the subject.

Small figures of sphinxes were made as temple offerings or as part of the decoration of cult objects. When added to ritual objects, sphinxes such as this served a protective role. The figure is inscribed for a King Sheshenq, but we cannot be certain which of the five pharaohs named Sheshenq is shown.

Caption

Sphinx of King Sheshenq, ca. 945–712 B.C.E.. Bronze, 1 15/16 x 13/16 x 2 7/8 in. (4.9 x 2.1 x 7.3 cm) mount (Display dimensions): 2 1/4 x 1 1/8 x 3 in. (5.7 x 2.9 x 7.6 cm). Brooklyn Museum, Charles Edwin Wilbour Fund, 33.586. Creative Commons-BY (Photo: Brooklyn Museum, 33.586_edited_SL1.jpg)

Title

Sphinx of King Sheshenq

Date

ca. 945–712 B.C.E.

Dynasty

Dynasty 22 to Dynasty 23

Period

Third Intermediate Period

Geography

Place made: Egypt

Medium

Bronze

Classification

Sculpture

Dimensions

1 15/16 x 13/16 x 2 7/8 in. (4.9 x 2.1 x 7.3 cm) mount (Display dimensions): 2 1/4 x 1 1/8 x 3 in. (5.7 x 2.9 x 7.6 cm)

Credit Line

Charles Edwin Wilbour Fund

Accession Number

33.586

Rights

Creative Commons-BY

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