Statuette of Amun

Artist Unidentified

Period New Kingdom Period (Ancient Egyptian, 1550–1070 BCE)

Dynasty Dynasty 20 (Ancient Egyptian, 1186–1070 BCE)

Place of OriginPossibly Karnak, Egypt

Date20th Dynasty (1186-1070 BCE)

Dimensions10 1/4 in. (26 cm)

Mediumbronze

ClassificationSculpture

Credit LineGift of Edward Drummond Libbey

Object number

1906.105

On View

Toledo Museum of Art (2445 Monroe Street), Gallery, 02, Classic

DescriptionThe hieroglyphic inscriptions incised in the wax bases before being cast in bronze are corroded, but preserved well enough to show that the three statuettes of the Theban Triad in the collection - of Amun (1906.105), Mut (1906.106), and Khonsu (1906.107) - were commissioned and dedicated by the same person.

Label TextThis bronze statuette depicts Amun, the chief deity of Thebes, who rose to prominence during the New Kingdom. Amun, often referred to as the “Hidden One,” symbolizes divine kingship, creation, and hidden power. In this representation, he is likely shown wearing his typical crown with twin plumes and a short kilt, underscoring his connection to fertility and rulership. Amun’s importance was further elevated as the principal god of the Theban Triad, alongside his consort Mut and their son Khonsu. The statuette is part of a set that includes Mut (1906.106) and Khonsu (1906.107), forming a complete Theban Triad. The hieroglyphic inscriptions, incised into the wax bases before the statuettes were cast in bronze, though corroded, reveal that all three pieces were commissioned and dedicated by the same individual.Published ReferencesLuckner, Kurt T., "The art of Egypt, Part 2" Toledo Museum of Art Museum News, new series, vol. 14, no. 3, Fall 1971, p. 69, repr. fig. 10.

Peck, William H., Sandra E. Knudsen and Paula Reich, Egypt in Toledo: The Ancient Egyptian Collection at the Toledo Museum of Art, Toledo, Toledo Museum of Art, 2011, p. 63, repr. (col.).

Exhibition HistoryToledo Museum of Art, The Mummies: From Egypt to Toledo, February 3- May 6, 2018.