Ancient Egyptian | Carved Limestone Sacred Feline Figure | Late Period | Circa 664–30 B.C.
Description
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Historical Context & Origin
Region: Egypt
Material: Carved limestone
Period: Late Period to Ptolemaic Period, 664–30 B.C.
Description
A finely carved Ancient Egyptian limestone figure depicting a reclining lioness resting upon an integral rectangular base. The animal is shown in a poised recumbent position with forelegs extended forward and the body raised slightly at the shoulders, a pose symbolizing vigilance and protective strength.
The sculpture is rendered in a simplified but expressive form typical of smaller votive animal figures produced during the Late Period. The elongated neck and stylized head face forward, while the hindquarters are folded beneath the body. Subtle carving indicates the musculature of the legs and torso, emphasizing the animal’s power and presence.
Lioness imagery held deep symbolic meaning in Egyptian religion and was closely associated with protective solar deities. Such figures were sometimes linked with fierce guardian goddesses such as Sekhmet or related leonine divine forms representing strength, protection, and divine authority.
Features
- Carved limestone representation of a reclining lioness
- Classic protective animal symbolism in Egyptian religion
- Sculpted on an integrated rectangular base
- Stylized Late Period carving with simplified anatomical detail
- Natural surface patina developed over millennia
Cultural Significance
The lioness was one of the most powerful symbolic animals in ancient Egyptian belief. It represented solar power, royal protection, and divine ferocity. Lioness deities such as Sekhmet embodied the destructive and protective force of the sun, while related feline symbolism also connected to the protective aspects of Bastet.
Small sculptures of sacred animals were commonly placed in temples, shrines, or tomb contexts as devotional offerings intended to invoke divine protection and favor.
Condition
Good ancient condition with surface wear, mineral deposits, and patination consistent with age. Minor abrasions and natural weathering are present across the surface.
Dimensions (Approximate)
Height: 1.63 in
Length: 1.25 in
Depth: 0.50 in
Age (Approximate)
2,000–2,600 years old
Learn More
Examine the role of sacred felines in ancient Egypt in the Divine Felines exhibition at the Brooklyn Museum
View our curated Ancient Egyptian Artifacts Collection.
Description
Historical Context & Origin
Region: Egypt
Material: Carved limestone
Period: Late Period to Ptolemaic Period, 664–30 B.C.
Description
A finely carved Ancient Egyptian limestone figure depicting a reclining lioness resting upon an integral rectangular base. The animal is shown in a poised recumbent position with forelegs extended forward and the body raised slightly at the shoulders, a pose symbolizing vigilance and protective strength.
The sculpture is rendered in a simplified but expressive form typical of smaller votive animal figures produced during the Late Period. The elongated neck and stylized head face forward, while the hindquarters are folded beneath the body. Subtle carving indicates the musculature of the legs and torso, emphasizing the animal’s power and presence.
Lioness imagery held deep symbolic meaning in Egyptian religion and was closely associated with protective solar deities. Such figures were sometimes linked with fierce guardian goddesses such as Sekhmet or related leonine divine forms representing strength, protection, and divine authority.
Features
- Carved limestone representation of a reclining lioness
- Classic protective animal symbolism in Egyptian religion
- Sculpted on an integrated rectangular base
- Stylized Late Period carving with simplified anatomical detail
- Natural surface patina developed over millennia
Cultural Significance
The lioness was one of the most powerful symbolic animals in ancient Egyptian belief. It represented solar power, royal protection, and divine ferocity. Lioness deities such as Sekhmet embodied the destructive and protective force of the sun, while related feline symbolism also connected to the protective aspects of Bastet.
Small sculptures of sacred animals were commonly placed in temples, shrines, or tomb contexts as devotional offerings intended to invoke divine protection and favor.
Condition
Good ancient condition with surface wear, mineral deposits, and patination consistent with age. Minor abrasions and natural weathering are present across the surface.
Dimensions (Approximate)
Height: 1.63 in
Length: 1.25 in
Depth: 0.50 in
Age (Approximate)
2,000–2,600 years old
Learn More
Examine the role of sacred felines in ancient Egypt in the Divine Felines exhibition at the Brooklyn Museum
View our curated Ancient Egyptian Artifacts Collection.
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