ostracon ancient art
catalogue

Egyptian Relief Alabastron, Roman Period, 2nd/3rd Century AD

Decorated with an erotic scene next to the small loop handle. The belly with a frieze of Bes figures framed by rosettes.

The dwarf god Bes was the protector of women in childbirth, neonates and the human body in general.

For a related pottery alabastron in Cairo cf. lot no. 50b, p. 102 in: Lexicon Iconographicum Mythologiae Classicae (LIMC), Vol. III/1. Zurich, Munich 1986.

Intact. Composed of two halves taken out of a mold. The Bes figures slightly worn on one side.

H. 14.2 cm (5.6 in)

European art market

1200 USD