Statuette of a Lion

380–246 BCE
Overall: 13.8 x 12 cm (5 7/16 x 4 3/4 in.)
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Location: 107 Egyptian

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Did You Know?

In antiquity, lions were often associated with rulers and this miniature sculpture likely depicts the Egyptian lion god Mahes. In ancient Egypt, a special city known as Leontopolis, or "Lion-City," had a temple dedicated to this deity in which live lions were kept. This small limestone sculpture would have been at home in such a location.

Description

Lions in Egyptian art are usually shown prone and relaxed, and usually represent the king. But this statuette probably represents the lion god Mahes who had a great temple at Leontopolis ("Lion-City") in the Delta where lions were kept. We know from classical authors that the temple maintained musicians to play to the lions to calm their nerves.
Statuette of a Lion

Statuette of a Lion

380–246 BCE

Egypt, Late period (715–332 BCE), Dynasty 30

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