Origin: Egypt
Circa: 664 BC to 300 BC
Dimensions: 6.75" (17.1cm) high
Collection: Egyptian
Style: Late Period
Medium: Bronze
Osiris, the god of death, resurrection and fertility, was one of the most important deities in the Egyptian pantheon. The legend of Osiris states that he once ruled Egypt as king until he was murdered and dismembered by his jealous brother Seth. Isis, his faithful wife, gathered the pieces and restored him to life allowing the conception of their son Horus. Osiris subsequently became god of the underworld and was appealed to by those desirous of rebirth in the afterlife. Horus avenged his father and defeated Seth, succeeding to the throne of Egypt as the rightful heir of Osiris. This narrative was used as a theological rationale for the Egyptian monarchical system and also offered the hope of the possibility of immortality through resurrection.
According to the standard iconography, Osiris is depicted in anthropomorphic form as a human mummy. Sitting erect, his hands project from his wrappings to grasp the crook and flail, his chief attributes. These items of regalia are often present in depictions of kings and are thought to represent pastoral implements. He wears the so- called Atef Crown, similar to the White Crown of Upper Egypt, but with two side feathers attached. A frontal uraeus (stylized cobra) symbolises his royalty and divinity. The bronze is hollow cast and there are tangs underneath the feet and buttocks for attachment to a base now missing. The eyes are recessed which indicates they were once inlaid, probably with silver.

Antiquities
Ancient Egyptian