Graywacke, Saqqara, Serapeum, Dyn. 30, 381–343 B.C.E.
HxWxD: 10.5 x 8.5 x 11.3 cm (4 1/8 x 3 3/8 x 4 7/16 in.)
Purchased of Edward P. Warren Pierce Fund 1904, MFA #04.1749
?Museum website says "Henry Lillie Pierce Fund"?
"This head of a priest, called the Boston Green Head, is one of the finest portraits of antiquity, wonderfully lifelike and individual. Light wavy lines furrow his brow, and crow’s feet radiate from the outer corners of his eyes. The top of his nose has a pronounced bony ridge. Deep creases run from the edges of his nose to the corners of his mouth. Thin lips and a downturned mouth impart an expression of strength and determination. The slight wart on his left cheek is unique in Egyptian art and also introduces an element of asymmetry dear to the artists of the Late Period.
"The subject's name is not preserved on what remains of the inscription on the back pillar, which mentions only the Memphite funerary deity Ptah-Sokar."(From the info card and museum website)
Photos © Joan Ann Lansberry
