Inlay of the hieroglyphic sign "heh" meaning "millions of years"

Late Period–Ptolemaic Period

4th century B.C.

On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 134

This inlay depicts the god Heh. Heh is a god associated with the primeval ocean, the supports of the sky, and - associated with concepts of extent - can serve as the hieroglyph for a "million".

The notched reed that topped his head, and that symbolized the counting and passage of years, has broken away leaving only a small stem.

Artwork Details

Overview

Curatorial Interpretation

Provenance

References

Title: Inlay of the hieroglyphic sign "heh" meaning "millions of years"
Period: Late Period–Ptolemaic Period
Date: 4th century B.C.
Geography: From Egypt; Possibly from Middle Egypt, Hermopolis (Ashmunein; Khemenu)
Medium: Faience
Dimensions: H. 14.9 cm (5 7/8 in.); W. 10.1 cm (4 in.); D. 1.1 cm (7/16 in.)
Credit Line: Purchase, Edward S. Harkness Gift, 1926
Object Number: 26.7.993
Curatorial Department: Egyptian Art

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