Item 89. Ancient Egypt Ptolemaic Bronze Figure - 55 mm
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Starting bid
€ 1
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Selected by Peter Reynaers
Has nearly 30 years’ experience and moderated multiple online art research groups.
Estimate € 750 - € 900
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Description from the seller
Ptolemaic Bronze Figure of a Sacred Bull – 3rd–1st Century BC
A compact and powerfully cast Ptolemaic bronze figure depicting a sacred bull, dating to the 3rd–1st century BC. Stylized yet evocative, the animal stands with forelegs extended and head slightly raised, evoking the iconography of divine bovine figures such as Apis. The musculature is clearly suggested, with a strong neck, high shoulder ridge, and defined limbs lending presence and balance to the composition.
Though modest in scale, the artisan achieved a remarkable expressiveness in the form, particularly in the curvature of the horns and posture of the head. The surface exhibits a deep olive-green patina with areas of reddish-brown, the result of long burial and stable oxidation. Traces of encrustation remain in crevices, enhancing the antique character.
Flat and unadorned beneath, the figure was likely intended for use in a domestic or votive setting, possibly once part of a household shrine or ritual assemblage. Bulls held significant religious meaning in Ptolemaic Egypt, symbolizing fertility, strength, and protection—attributes that would have made such a piece deeply resonant in its cultural context.
• Material: Bronze
• Dimensions: 55 × 47 × 8 mm
• Weight: 70 g
• Dating: 3rd–1st century BC
• Condition: Intact. Minor encrustation and natural surface wear consistent with age. Stable green patina throughout.
• Note: Stand is included.
A finely preserved example of Hellenistic Egyptian bronze votive work, merging symbolic power with understated elegance.
- Provenance: Acquired in 2025 in France, coming from an old collection from Paris.
- Export Status: Accompanied by an official Dutch export license.
Ptolemaic Bronze Figure of a Sacred Bull – 3rd–1st Century BC
A compact and powerfully cast Ptolemaic bronze figure depicting a sacred bull, dating to the 3rd–1st century BC. Stylized yet evocative, the animal stands with forelegs extended and head slightly raised, evoking the iconography of divine bovine figures such as Apis. The musculature is clearly suggested, with a strong neck, high shoulder ridge, and defined limbs lending presence and balance to the composition.
Though modest in scale, the artisan achieved a remarkable expressiveness in the form, particularly in the curvature of the horns and posture of the head. The surface exhibits a deep olive-green patina with areas of reddish-brown, the result of long burial and stable oxidation. Traces of encrustation remain in crevices, enhancing the antique character.
Flat and unadorned beneath, the figure was likely intended for use in a domestic or votive setting, possibly once part of a household shrine or ritual assemblage. Bulls held significant religious meaning in Ptolemaic Egypt, symbolizing fertility, strength, and protection—attributes that would have made such a piece deeply resonant in its cultural context.
• Material: Bronze
• Dimensions: 55 × 47 × 8 mm
• Weight: 70 g
• Dating: 3rd–1st century BC
• Condition: Intact. Minor encrustation and natural surface wear consistent with age. Stable green patina throughout.
• Note: Stand is included.
A finely preserved example of Hellenistic Egyptian bronze votive work, merging symbolic power with understated elegance.
- Provenance: Acquired in 2025 in France, coming from an old collection from Paris.
- Export Status: Accompanied by an official Dutch export license.
Details
Era
Before 1400
Weight
70 g
Culture
Item 89. Ancient Egypt Ptolemaic
Century/ Timeframe
3rd to 1st Century BC
No. of items
1
Acquired from
Auction house
Title
Bull
Country of Origin
Unknown
Year acquired
2025
Material
Bronze
Country acquired from
France
Previous owner acquired from
Private collection
Previous owner - year acquired
1970
Condition
Good condition - used with small signs of aging & blemishes
Previous owner - country acquired from
France
Height
55 mm
I verify that I have obtained this object legally and that I am allowed to sell it
Yes
Width
47 mm
Depth
18 mm
Sold by
Disclaimer
The seller was informed by Catawiki about documentation requirements and guarantees the following: - the object was legally obtained, - the seller has the right to sell and/or export the object, as relevant, - the seller will provide the necessary provenance information and arrange required documentation and permits/licenses, as applicable and as per local laws, - the seller will notify the buyer of any delays in obtaining permits/licenses. By bidding, you acknowledge that import documentation may be required depending on your country of residence and that obtaining permits/licenses may cause delays in the delivery of your object.
The seller was informed by Catawiki about documentation requirements and guarantees the following: - the object was legally obtained, - the seller has the right to sell and/or export the object, as relevant, - the seller will provide the necessary provenance information and arrange required documentation and permits/licenses, as applicable and as per local laws, - the seller will notify the buyer of any delays in obtaining permits/licenses. By bidding, you acknowledge that import documentation may be required depending on your country of residence and that obtaining permits/licenses may cause delays in the delivery of your object.
