New photography by Shannon Ruff captured with a digital camera-2006.

Head of a Man

Artist Unknown

CultureEgyptian

DateNew Kingdom, Dynasty 18, 1550-1295 B.C.E.

MediumLimestone

DimensionsOverall: 9 3/4 x 4 1/4 in. (24.8 x 10.8 cm)

Credit LineGift of Mr. Sheldon L. Breitbart

Object number82.123.1

Collections

Ancient Mediterranean Art

On View

Chrysler Museum of Art, Gallery 109

DescriptionFragmentary head of a man, missing a large section of its left cheek, ear, and hair. He wears a half-length wig that comes to his shoulders, passing over the top of his ear. From under his wig and down his shoulder runs the embroided edge of a cloth. At the point where it meets the breaking of the neck remains a fragment of a necklace. Remainders of paint can be seen: black in the hair and in the pupils, and reddish ochre on the face. The man was leaning on a back pillar or the back of a chair.

Label TextHead of a Nobleman New Kingdom, Dynasty 18, 1550-1295 B.C.E. Limestone Gift of Sheldon L. Breitbart 82.123.1 This head may have once belonged to a full-length figure shown seated or kneeling. The details of the head show a high level of finish-a full wig with minutely carved braids and fine, carefully delineated facial features. These refinements leave little doubt that the man portrayed was a member of the upper class-a nobleman, perhaps, or court official. Set in his tomb, the statue would have served as a resting place and offering point for the man's ka, that part of his spirit that most closely resembled his physical self. The figure originally would have been painted, making it appear lifelike and vital in death. Traces of black pigment can still be seen in the hair and eyes, and flecks of reddish ochre on the face. Exhibition History"The Allure of Ancient Egypt," Selden Arcade, Norfolk, VA, June 18 - August 17, 2013.