Egyptian Baboon Sculpture

Illustration

James Blake Wiener
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published on 29 September 2017
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Egyptian Baboon Sculpture Download Full Size Image

This ancient Egyptian sculpture made of basalt dates from the 13th century BCE and depicts a seated baboon. The baboon was associated with Thoth—the god of wisdom, science, and measurement. Baboons were thus often represented with water clocks or scales weighing the hearts of humans awaiting final judgment. Baboons were also regarded as "solar animals" in ancient Egypt, and there are many murals with their arms outstretched to worship the sun. (Georgian National Museum, Tbilisi)

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About the Author

James Blake Wiener
James is a writer and former Professor of History. He holds an MA in World History with a particular interest in cross-cultural exchange and world history. He is a co-founder of World History Encyclopedia and formerly was its Communications Director.

Cite This Work

APA Style

Wiener, J. B. (2017, September 29). Egyptian Baboon Sculpture. World History Encyclopedia. Retrieved from https://www.worldhistory.org/image/7354/egyptian-baboon-sculpture/

Chicago Style

Wiener, James Blake. "Egyptian Baboon Sculpture." World History Encyclopedia. Last modified September 29, 2017. https://www.worldhistory.org/image/7354/egyptian-baboon-sculpture/.

MLA Style

Wiener, James Blake. "Egyptian Baboon Sculpture." World History Encyclopedia. World History Encyclopedia, 29 Sep 2017. Web. 21 Feb 2025.

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