Photograph by Ed Pollard, Canon EOS-1Ds Mark II digital slr-2009.

Wall fragment

Artist Unknown

CultureEgyptian

DatePtolemaic Period, 170-116 B.C.E.

MediumLimestone

DimensionsOverall: 18 1/2 x 21 1/2 in. (47 x 54.6 cm)

InscribedHeiroglyphs

Credit LineGift of Walter P. Chrysler, Jr.

Object number82.53

Collections

Ancient Mediterranean Art

On View

Chrysler Museum of Art, Gallery 109

Label TextWall Fragment Ptolemaic Period, 170–116 B.C.E. Limestone Gift of Walter P. Chrysler, Jr. 82.53 This limestone temple relief depicts a pharaoh, at right, making an offering of papyrus sprouts to a goddess who holds a lotusheaded scepter and an ankh-sign (a symbol of life). The fragmentary hieroglyphs above the king identify him as Ptolemy VIII Euergetes II, who centered his reign (170–116 B.C.) in Alexandria. Though the goddess has not been yet been identified, the king’s offering and her response to it—“I give you all marshes/pasture lands” (see illustration)—suggest that she is a deity connected with agriculture or natural fertility. The interrelationship of god and king depicted here was central to the Egyptian worldview. In the broadest sense, it was the pharaoh’s responsibility to ensure that all necessary offerings were made to the gods. In return, the gods bestowed peace and prosperity on the king and his people. The hieroglyphs can be translated thus: …the Mistress of heaven on…, [name of the goddess], the Lady of (?) [The Heir of the Epiphanes gods], Chosen of Ptah, who accomplishes the justice of Re, [living image of] Amun [Ptolem]y living forever, beloved of Ptah (=Ptolemy VIII) Offering (?) sweet fragrant and sparkling sprouts to… All protection, life, and power around him like Re forever I give you all marshes/pasture lands…Exhibition History"The Allure of Ancient Egypt," Selden Arcade, Norfolk, VA, June 18 - August 17, 2013.