Media Information

 
 
 
Collection:
ADJUNCT MODULE C: WORLD ART
Preferred Title:
Statue of Bes
Image View:
Detail, head and torso; would have had a tongue sticking out
Creator:
unknown (Egyptian (ancient) or Roman sculptor)
Location:
repository: Museo Barracco (Rome, Lazio, Italy) Inv. MB 60
Location Note:
Corso Vittorio Emanuele, 166/A
GPS:
41.896111 12.477222
Date:
1st century CE (creation)
Cultural Context:
Egyptian (ancient)
Style Period:
Romano-Egyptian
Work Type 1:
sculpture (visual work)
Classification:
Sculpture and Installations
Material:
white marble
Technique:
carving (processes)
Subjects:
deities; Egypt--Religion
Description:
Roman period in Egypt; from Colonna, Latium. Images of the god Bes were widespread in Egypt, because although he was a secondary deity, he was particularly venerated in popular religion. His main function was magical, his monstrous appearance and the weapons he held had no other purpose than to frighten evil spirits. Starting in the days of the Middle Kingdom, his sphere of protection focused mainly on aspects cherished in private religion, such as the home, fertility, marriage and childbirth. In the Roman world, Bes was often related to the cult of Isis. Bes is often pictured as a dwarf whose face is distorted by a grimace; sticking out his tongue, for instance. (Source: Museo Barracco di Scultura Antica [website]; http://www.museobarr acco.it/en/)
Collection:
Archivision Adjunct Module C: World Art
Identifier:
7A2-I-R-MB-STOB-A03
Rights:
© Scott Gilchrist, Archivision, Inc.

Statue of Bes