Home > Europe > United Kingdom > England > London > Sights > British Museum
Isis in mourning for Osiris. Egypt
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Isis in mourning for Osiris. Egypt
Painted wooden figurine of Isis in mourning for Osiris. 305-330 BC. Ptolemaic Period. Origin unknown. British Museum. London. United Kingdom
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 14322914
© Thaliastock / Mary Evans
Deity Divinity Figurine Goddess Isis Kneel Kneeling Mourning Origin Osiris Polychrome Polychromed Polychromy Ptolemaic Statuette
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> London
> Museums
> British Museum
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> London
> Sights
> British Museum
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> Sculptures
EDITORS COMMENTS
This exquisitely crafted wooden figurine portrays the ancient Egyptian goddess Isis in a poignant moment of mourning for her beloved husband, Osiris. Dated to the Ptolemaic Period, around 305-330 BC, the figurine's origin remains unknown, but it is now a cherished addition to the British Museum's collection in London, United Kingdom. Isis, the goddess of motherhood, magic, and fertility, is depicted here in a kneeling position, her hands pressed together in prayer or supplication. Her face is etched with deep lines and creases, reflecting her sorrow and anguish. Her polychrome, or multi-colored, paintwork adds depth and richness to the sculpture, enhancing the intricate details of her headdress and clothing. The mythological tale of Osiris' death and Isis' mourning is one of the most enduring stories in Egyptian mythology. According to legend, Osiris was killed by his jealous brother Set, and his body was dismembered and scattered throughout Egypt. Isis, with the help of her sister Nephthys, gathered the pieces of Osiris' body and used her magical powers to restore him to life, but only long enough for her to conceive their son, Horus. After Osiris' death, Isis continued to mourn him deeply, and her devotion to him became a central tenet of her cult. This figurine offers a glimpse into the profound emotional depth and complexity of ancient Egyptian religious practices, and serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring power of love and loss.
MADE IN THE UK
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Basket.
