Sphinx
Artist
Unknown
CultureEgyptian
DateDynasty 12 (ca. 1985-1773 B.C.) or early Dynasty 18 (ca. 1550-1425 B.C.)
MediumGneiss | Diorite
DimensionsOverall: 8 3/8 x 7 x 20 1/2 in. (21.3 x 17.8 x 52.1 cm)
Credit LineGift of Richard L. LePere
Object number77.1262
Not on view
DescriptionFragmentary sphinx with missing head and front legs, generally very chipped. Remains the body of a lion crouching on a worn base, its tail flexed around its right back leg. On the chest above where the left leg used to be, one can see vertical striations, under a bulge on the edge of the crack of the head (which was probably the tip of the hair falling on the chest). On the left of this bulge is still the edge of a carved broad necklace with tubular and drop-shaped beads. On the left shoulder of the lion is a curved triangular and striated pattern that forms the twist of hairs from the chest. One big crack runs on the right flank of the sphinx from the base to its back.
