Magical Relief in the Brooklyn Museum, March 2010

Stela

Although this winged god resembles Bes, in actuality it is a composite of several powers, beneficial and/or harmful, that seldom manifest themselves. Here it apparently offers protection under or near its feet are a scorpion, a turtle, bound captives, and, apparently, a lion, all symbolizing forces of chaos. The baboon and Ibis at the upper sides are images of Thoth. Their significance here is unclear. Through the half circle at the bottom flowed water that cured various ailments or prevented harm.

Medium: Limestone

Place Made: Egypt

Dates: 305-30 B.C.E.

Period: Ptolemaic Period

Dimensions: 31 1/4 x 23 13/16 x 4 15/16 in. (79.3 x 60.5 x 12.5 cm)

Collections: Egyptian, Classical, Ancient Near Eastern Art

Museum Location: This item is not on view

Accession Number: 37.229

Credit Line: Charles Edwin Wilbour Fund

Text from: www.brooklynmuseum.org/opencollection/objects/47426/Stela...