New photography by Shannon Ruff captured with a digital camera-2007.

Falcon (Horus)

Artist Unknown

CultureEgyptian

DateLate Period, Dynasty 26, 664-525 B.C.E.

MediumBronze with marble base

DimensionsOverall: 5 1/8 in. (13 cm)
Base: 1 1/4 in. (3.2 cm)

Credit LineGift of Walter P. Chrysler, Jr.

Object number71.2217.13

Collections

Ancient Mediterranean Art

On View

Chrysler Museum of Art, Gallery 109

DescriptionCast bronze figurine of a falcon standing on its legs, its wings folded in its back above its tail. The legs are separately cast and inserted with tangs into the body; they have repaired breaks at both ankles; standing on a low bronze rectangular base, set into a larger round marble base. Blue material inlaid around the eyes to form the pattern of the plumage of the hawk's head. Eyes are made of dark glass circled with a golden ring.

Label TextFalcon (Horus) Late Period, Dynasty 26, ca. 664-525 B.C.E. Bronze Gift of Walter P. Chrysler, Jr. 71.2217.13 This votive statue of a falcon was almost certainly dedicated to Horus, the sky god whose nature was closely linked with hawks. The falcon's eyes are made of glass and circled with rings of gold. The blue material inlaid around the eyes was meant to evoke the iridescent plumage of the bird's head. Such carefully crafted details suggest that its owner was a wealthy individual or institution. Exhibition History"The Allure of Ancient Egypt," Selden Arcade, Norfolk, VA, June 18 - August 17, 2013. "Man's Best Friends," Selden Arcade, Norfolk, VA, August 27 - October 19, 2013.