Description:

Egypt, Late Dynastic period, 26th to 31st Dynasty, ca. 672 to 332 BCE. A remarkable bronze figure of the Egyptian moon god Khonsu, standing mummiform and wearing a moon disc with horns as well as a side-lock of youth, a false beard, and an uraeus. Atop an integral plinth, the ancient deity holds a flail, a was-scepter, and a crook. Khonsu, the god of the moon, time, and healing, was often portrayed as youthful - as indicated with the hair sidelock. In Egyptian mythology, Khonsu was believed to control the passage of time and was invoked for protection during nighttime travel. Size: 0.8" W x 3.5" H (2 cm x 8.9 cm); 4.75" H (12.1 cm) on included custom stand.

Khonsu is an ancient god whose main role was associated with the moon. His name means "traveler" and this may relate to the nightly travel of the moon across the sky. His name reflects the fact that the Moon (referred to as Iah in Egyptian) travels across the night sky, for it means "traveler", and also had the titles "Embracer", "Pathfinder", and "Defender", as he was thought to watch overnight travelers. As the god of light in the night, Khonsu was invoked to protect against wild animals, increase male virility, and aid with healing. It was said that when Khonsu caused the crescent moon to shine, women conceived, cattle became fertile, and all nostrils and every throat was filled with fresh air.

Published: J. Eisenberg, Art of the Ancient World, vol. XXV (2014), no. 174.

Provenance: ex-Royal Athena Galleries, New York City, New York, USA; ex-Paris art market, 2012; ex-Charles Bouche (1928 - 2010) collection, France

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#190846

  • Condition: Light surface wear as shown, but otherwise, intact and excellent with impressive remaining detail and light patina throughout. Adhered to custom stand.

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