ClassificationsGreek and Roman Art

Intaglio with Osiris Canopus

AAT Object Techniqueintaglios (sculptural objects)

AAT Object Form/Functiongems (worked stones)

AAT Object Form/Functionfigures (representations)

Possible OriginEgypt, Africa

CultureRoman

Periodlate Republic - early Imperial

Date1st Century BCE-1st Century CE

MediumCrystalline Quartz var. crystal quartz

Credit LineGift of the Estate of Michael J. Shubin

Dimensions3/8 x 5/16 x 3/16 in. (1 x 0.8 x 0.5 cm)

Object number2008.031.045

Label TextOsiris-Canopus in the shape of a jar with the head of the god, in profile to left.

From the 1st century BC, depictions of the Osiris of Canopus, whose temple was dedicated in the town of Canopus by Ptolemy III Euergetes I, took the form of a canopic jar with the head of Osiris. The motif may also have evoked Osiris' connection with the Nile waters. The god was closely associated with cults of Isis and Serapis in the Ptolemaic and Roman periods, and Osiris-Canopus jars were carried by priests of each cult during religious ceremonies.

ProvenanceEx coll. Michael Shubin (1950-2008), Montebello, California, acquired April 2, 1988.

Status

Not on view

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