Carved Sphinx on Wooden Base | Egyptomania Decorative Art | Early–Mid 20th Century
Description
More
Less
Historical Context & Origin
Region: Egypt (inspired, likely produced elsewhere for the antiquities market)
Material: Carved natural material, mounted on a black wooden base
Period: Early–Mid 20th Century
Description
This finely carved Sphinx figure reflects the enduring fascination with Ancient Egypt that swept Europe and North America during the early 20th century. Shown in the traditional reclining pose, the figure combines a leonine body with a pharaonic head adorned with the striated nemes headdress. The creamy ivory-toned surface has been polished to a smooth finish, and the piece rests on its original stepped black wood base, enhancing its visual presence. The stylized form draws on classical pharaonic imagery while also embodying the Egyptomania revival in decorative arts following the discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb in 1922.
Features
- Hand-carved natural material with smooth polished finish
- Reclining Sphinx with lion’s body and pharaonic head
- Traditional nemes headdress with serene features
- Mounted on original stepped black wood base
- Compact and elegant, suitable for cabinet or desktop display
Cultural Significance
The Sphinx is among the most recognizable symbols of Ancient Egypt, embodying divine wisdom, guardianship, and strength. Early 20th-century decorative carvings such as this reflect the revival of Egyptian motifs in Western art and design, bringing echoes of ancient grandeur into modern homes. They illustrate how archaeology and popular fascination shaped the aesthetics of the decorative arts during the Egyptomania period.
Condition
Good condition with light surface wear and polish consistent with age. Minor scuffing to base. No major losses or restorations observed.
Dimensions (Approximate)
Height: 2.75 in
Width: 4.75 in
Depth: 1.75 in
Age (Approximate)
80–120 years old
Learn More
Explore a comparable example in The Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Sculpture Collection
Explore Our Collection of Ancient Statues, Figures & Carvings
Description
Historical Context & Origin
Region: Egypt (inspired, likely produced elsewhere for the antiquities market)
Material: Carved natural material, mounted on a black wooden base
Period: Early–Mid 20th Century
Description
This finely carved Sphinx figure reflects the enduring fascination with Ancient Egypt that swept Europe and North America during the early 20th century. Shown in the traditional reclining pose, the figure combines a leonine body with a pharaonic head adorned with the striated nemes headdress. The creamy ivory-toned surface has been polished to a smooth finish, and the piece rests on its original stepped black wood base, enhancing its visual presence. The stylized form draws on classical pharaonic imagery while also embodying the Egyptomania revival in decorative arts following the discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb in 1922.
Features
- Hand-carved natural material with smooth polished finish
- Reclining Sphinx with lion’s body and pharaonic head
- Traditional nemes headdress with serene features
- Mounted on original stepped black wood base
- Compact and elegant, suitable for cabinet or desktop display
Cultural Significance
The Sphinx is among the most recognizable symbols of Ancient Egypt, embodying divine wisdom, guardianship, and strength. Early 20th-century decorative carvings such as this reflect the revival of Egyptian motifs in Western art and design, bringing echoes of ancient grandeur into modern homes. They illustrate how archaeology and popular fascination shaped the aesthetics of the decorative arts during the Egyptomania period.
Condition
Good condition with light surface wear and polish consistent with age. Minor scuffing to base. No major losses or restorations observed.
Dimensions (Approximate)
Height: 2.75 in
Width: 4.75 in
Depth: 1.75 in
Age (Approximate)
80–120 years old
Learn More
Explore a comparable example in The Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Sculpture Collection
Explore Our Collection of Ancient Statues, Figures & Carvings
You May Also Like
