Artwork Page for Amulet of Bastet

Details / Information for Amulet of Bastet

Amulet of Bastet

c. 1069–715 BCE
Medium
hematite
Measurements
Overall: 4.4 x 1.1 x 2.8 cm (1 3/4 x 7/16 x 1 1/8 in.)
Public Domain
You can copy, modify, and distribute this work, all without asking permission. Learn more about CMA's Open Access Initiative.
Location
107 Egyptian
?

Did You Know?

This object was in the collection of Howard Carter—the man who discovered the intact tomb of Tutankhamun—until his death.

Description

Elegantly seated on a low base, its tail curled around its left side, this tiny cat, sacred animal of the goddess Bastet, is a sculptural tour de force. The front legs are carved entirely in openwork. The base, an amalgam of the hieroglyphs for "ointment jar" (also used in the writing the name of the goddess Bastet), and "protection" is admirably contoured to the animal's body. On the back is a loop for suspension.
A sculpture in hematite, a polished dark gray stone, depicts a cat sitting upright on a small rectangular base. Facing left, the feline has an elongated neck and rounded head with pointed ears. Its front legs are straight, while the tail curves upward into a tight circular coil on the lower back. The glint of light highlights the smooth, reflective surface, revealing fine scratches and a notch on the far ear.

Amulet of Bastet

c. 1069–715 BCE

Egypt, Third Intermediate (1069–715 BCE)

See Also

Visually Similar by AI

Contact Us

The information about this object, including provenance, may not be currently accurate. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please fill out the appropriate request form linked below:

Update or Correct Artwork Information

Imagery or Rights for Non-Open-Access Artworks

Report a Website Issue

Further Questions About This Artwork