Images(6)

Reclining Bull

Artist Unknown

Date305–30 BCE

MediumWood with gesso and paint

Dimensions14 1/2 x 11 x 18 1/4 in. (36.8 x 27.9 x 46.4 cm)

ClassificationsSculpture

Credit LineGift of Mr. and Mrs. Gordon Hanes

Object numberG.75.8.4

On View

On view

Label TextCattle migrated to Africa from the Middle East during the Neolithic period and became an integral part of Egyptian civilization. Cattle were more than working animals and a source of food. They held economic importance and were a symbol of wealth. Both the cow and bull were sacred animals in religious beliefs. This still applies to many cultures in Africa today.

The Apis bull, the avatar of the god Ptah, had specific markings on its black and white hide. The animal lived a luxurious life, was venerated in its own temple, and at death was mummified and buried in a lavish tomb.

[C. Rocheleau, "The People's Collection, Reimagined," 2022]ProvenanceMathias Komor Fine Arts & Antiquities, New York, NY; sold to NCMA, 1975.Published ReferencesCaroline M. Rocheleau, Ancient Egyptian Art [Systematic Catalogue of the Collection] (Raleigh, NC: North Carolina Museum of Art, 2012), cat. no. 32, illus. (color) 89.
Exhibition HistoryRaleigh, NC, North Carolina Museum of Art, “Recent Acquisitions,” 1975.

Raleigh, NC, North Carolina Museum of Art, "The People's Collection, Reimagined," October 7, 2022–present. Object Rights Statement

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