Artwork Page for Arched Sistrum

Details / Information for Arched Sistrum

Arched Sistrum

380–343 BCE

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

Medium
bronze, hollow cast
Measurements
Overall: 21.4 x 5.3 cm (8 7/16 x 2 1/16 in.)
Credit Line
Gift of the John Huntington Art and Polytechnic Trust 1920.1990
Public Domain
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Location
107 Egyptian
Print

Description

A sistrum is a musical rattle. Metal disks strung on wires along the arched upper end of the sistrum produced a rustling sound that was supposed to have a calming effect on the nerves of various deities, especially the goddesses Hathor and Bastet. Appropriately, this example is decorated with a Hathor head (a woman with cow’s ears) and a cat (the image of Bastet). These instruments are particularly associated with women, who played them as members of a temple choir.
A bronze sistrum, an ancient musical instrument, features a cylindrical handle supporting a two-sided head with cow ears and a geometric wig. A small cat figurine sits on a platform above the head, from which a thin metal arch rises. A horizontal rod pierces the arch, carrying three textured disks on our right. Engraved patterns detail the face and collar, while areas of green patina mark the dark bronze surface.

Arched Sistrum

380–343 BCE

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

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