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Head of a man
Egyptian
Late Period, Dynasty 26
664–525 B.C.
Findspot: Egypt, Probably from Athribis
Medium/Technique
Granodiorite
Dimensions
Height x width: 22.8 x 18 cm (9 x 7 1/16 in.)
Credit Line
Seth K. Sweetser Fund
Accession Number37.377
CollectionsAncient Egypt, Nubia and the Near East
ClassificationsSculpture
DescriptionTwo basic trends may be distinguished in Late Period portraiture: idealizing and nonidealizing. They existed side by side. The subjects of idealizing portraits appear youthful, while nonidealizing portraits show them as mature or even aged. This head is an unusually accomplished and sensitive portrait in the nonidealizing style, with realistic features that are individualized rather than stereotyped. Although the subject's name is not preserved, the inscription on the back pillar mentions Khentykhety, god of Athribis in the Nile Delta, suggesting that was where he lived.
ProvenancePossibly from Athribis [see note 1] By 1926: Jacques Matossian Collection, Alexandria, Egypt; 1936: bought by Paul Mallon from Matossian; 1937: purchased by MFA from Paul Mallon for $1000.
[1] The back pillar inscription mentions the temple of Khentykhety, god of Athribis, suggesting the statue was placed there.
(Accession Date: May 5, 1937)
[1] The back pillar inscription mentions the temple of Khentykhety, god of Athribis, suggesting the statue was placed there.
(Accession Date: May 5, 1937)