Cippus of Horus (magical stela)
This miniature stela is carved in low relief with a figure of the child-god Horus trampling on two crocodiles. In each hand he holds a wild desert animal and either a scorpion or a snake, controlling these dangerous creatures with the help of the protective god Bes, who is shown above his head. The back and all four edges of this stela are carved with magical texts.
Stela such as this one are known as cippi. The ancient Egyptians believed that water poured over a cippus could be used to heal injuries caused by snakes or scorpions.
Stela such as this one are known as cippi. The ancient Egyptians believed that water poured over a cippus could be used to heal injuries caused by snakes or scorpions.
Artwork Details
- Title: Cippus of Horus (magical stela)
- Period: Late Period–Ptolemaic
- Dynasty: Dynasty 26–29
- Date: 664–380 B.C.
- Geography: From Egypt
- Medium: Marble
- Dimensions: H. 7.9 cm (3 1/8 in.); W. 5.4 cm (2 1/8 in.); D. 1.5 cm (9/16 in.)
- Credit Line: Bequest of W. Gedney Beatty, 1941
- Object Number: 41.160.119
- Curatorial Department: Egyptian Art
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360–343 BCE
332–30 B.C.
332–30 B.C.
ca. 712–332 B.C.
664–380 B.C.
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