Statuette of Taweret: A Symbol of Protection in Ptolemaic Egypt
The statuette likely depicts Taweret, a goddess revered for her protective role during childbirth and the safeguarding of expectant mothers. This powerful figure draws upon a blend of human and animal characteristics, incorporating elements from hippos, crocodiles, and lions to create a formidable image meant to ward off evil spirits and threats. On her head, she features a post that might have originally held a metal crown resembling a sun disk, decorated with feathers or horns. The symbol found beneath her front paws is interpreted as the sa amulet, an emblem associated with protection and safety.
Although Taweret was worshipped across both secular and sacred landscapes, the exceptional preservation and artistry of this statuette imply its intended use in a more sacred context, possibly within a temple dedicated to her or associated with the goddess Isis, specifically in the “birth house.”
Initially identified as a true glass artifact, the precise material remains a topic of debate. The pooling of glaze at the base and the slightly textured appearance observed in areas of the piece suggest it is made from glassy faience. This technique may have involved molding the overall shape, with the detailed craftsmanship of features like the head and limbs created by hand to emphasize the goddess’s powerful and fearsome attributes. The unique pale blue hue of the glazed surface supports its dating to the Ptolemaic Period.
Key Details of the Statuette:
- Title: Statuette of the Goddess Taweret
- Period: Ptolemaic Period
- Date: 332–30 B.C.
- Origin: Northern Upper Egypt, Qena area
- Material: Glassy faience
- Dimensions: Height: 11 cm (4 5/16 in); Width: 3.3 cm (1 5/16 in); Depth: 4.8 cm (1 7/8 in)
- Credit Line: Edward S. Harkness Gift, 1926
- Accession Number: 26.7.1193
The Metropolitan Museum of Art houses an extensive collection of Egyptian artifacts, reflecting a vast array of historical and cultural significance. This includes about 26,000 pieces spanning from the Paleolithic era to the Roman period, enhancing the understanding and appreciation of ancient Egyptian civilization.
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