Canopic Jar with Baboon-Headed Lid (Hapi)
Artist: Unidentified
Period: Late Period (Ancient Egyptian, 664–332 BCE)
Dynasty: Dynasty 26 (Saite) (Ancient Egyptian, 664–525 BCE)
Date: about 600 BCE
Dimensions:
11 1/8 in. (28.3 cm)
Medium: limestone with paint
Place of Origin: Egypt
Classification: Sculpture
Credit Line: Gift of Edward Drummond Libbey
Object number: 1906.15
Label Text:This canopic jar is distinguished by its baboon-headed lid, representing Hapi, one of the Four Sons of Horus. Hapi was entrusted with protecting the lungs of the deceased. His role in burial rituals was essential for safeguarding the organs during the journey to the afterlife. As the guardian of the lungs, Hapi was under the protection of the goddess Nephthys, who aided him in ensuring the soul's safe transition into the next world.
The baboon head reflects the symbolic role of Hapi, embodying vigilance and devotion. The jar, along with three others—representing Imsety (human head), Duamutef (jackal head), and Qebehsenuef (falcon head)—formed a set that was placed inside a canopic chest. These jars were aligned with the four cardinal directions and served both practical and symbolic purposes throughout the New Kingdom and Late Period.
In earlier periods, the jars contained the actual organs removed during the mummification process. Over time, as mummification techniques evolved, the jars were often sealed with resin, signifying a symbolic role in the ritual process. The baboon-headed Hapi remained a critical figure in ensuring cosmic balance by maintaining the spiritual integrity of the lungs.
DescriptionBaboon head shaped. Dummy jar, solid, with incised line to suggest differentiation of cover and jar.
On view
In Collection(s)