Aegis of the Goddess Isis

Egyptian
Date: Late Period, Dynasty 26, ca. 664–332 BC
Maker: Egyptian
Medium: Bronze
Dimensions: 6 ¾ H x 4 ½ w x 1 ½ Diam.
Credit: Gift of Heinrich Medicus
Accession Number: 2013.1.11
Comments:
The aegis, a combination of a deity's head and an exaggerated collar, was an emblem of the gods in ancient Egyptian culture. These images could be carried on a standard in processions or set on the prow of a sacred boat. Smaller version were worn as amulets. This aegis depicts a goddess wearing a modius, a small cap made of cobras, and cow horns with a sun disk between them. It could represent a number of goddesses such as Isis, Hathor, or some other female deity.