Detail of a Statue of a Goddess in the Brooklyn Museum, March 2010

Figure of Goddess Isis

Some elements of Egyptian art were susceptible to frequent change, but others were bound by tradition. The style of garments shown on statues, for example, changed with fashion trends, but a sculptural form, once perfected, tended to be reproduced for thousands of years. This statue depicts the elaborate garments favored by the aristocracy in the first century A.D. The pleated kilt of the Old Kingdom statue nearby—typical of a Fifth Dynasty official—is far simpler in design and detail. Although the clothing styles differ, the basic poses are identical.

Medium: Basalt

Place Made: Egypt

Dates: 1st century C.E.

Period: Roman Imperial Period

Dimensions: 37 1/2 x 13 1/2 in. (95.3 x 34.3 cm)

Collections: Egyptian, Classical, Ancient Near Eastern Art
Museum Location: This item is on view in Egypt Reborn: Art for Eternity, Egyptian Orientation Gallery, 3rd Floor

Accession Number: 74.220

Credit Line: Charles Edwin Wilbour Fund

Text from: www.brooklynmuseum.org/opencollection/objects/3841/Figure...