Late Dynastic Bronze Statue of Horus, Late Dynastic Period, 26th-30th Dynasty, 717-332 BC

This Late Dynastic Bronze Statue of Horus, dating to the 26th–30th Dynasties (717–332 B.C.), is a striking representation of one of ancient Egypt's most significant deities. The figure depicts Horus, the falcon-headed god, standing regally on his feet with his chest boldly raised, exuding strength and divinity. His wings are gracefully crossed over his elegantly fanned tail, creating a sense of balance and poise.

The head is finely detailed, featuring a prominent hooked beak and large, circular eyes that reflect his divine vision. The crescent-shaped accents flanking the eyes, which were likely originally inlaid, further emphasize the statue’s artistic refinement. The surface of the piece is adorned with a beautiful brown-green patina, a testament to its age and preservation.

This statue stands as a graceful and imposing piece, embodying both artistic mastery and the reverence for Horus as a symbol of kingship, protection, and divine power.

18 cm Length, 16 cm High

Significance
Horus, often depicted as a falcon or a falcon-headed man, was a symbol of kingship, protection, and divine justice. Statues like this would have been placed in temples, shrines, or tombs to honor Horus and invoke his protection. The fine craftsmanship and lifelike depiction highlight the exceptional skill of Late Dynastic artisans and the enduring importance of Horus in ancient Egyptian religion.

This artifact dates to the Late Dynastic Period of Ancient Egypt (26th–30th Dynasties, 717–332 B.C.), a time when Egypt sought to reclaim its cultural and artistic traditions amidst foreign influences.

During this period, the depiction of Horus, as the god of the sky and divine protector of the pharaohs, was especially significant in royal iconography and religious practices.

The statue is made of bronze, a material widely used during the Late Dynastic Period for its strength, durability, and ability to hold fine detail. The statue’s brown-green patina results from natural oxidation over centuries, enhancing its visual appeal and historical authenticity.

The Private Collection of the Baidun Family
Mahmoud Baidun (1920-1980) founded what would become Khader M Badiun and Sons Galleries in Jerusalem, Israel. As a young boy, Mahmoud would accompany archeologists, biblical scholars, and visiting delegations on excavation sites all over Jerusalem and other sites within the country. Earning the trust of scholars and archeologists alike, Mahmoud became an indispensable presence and guide to other visiting scholars. When Mr. Baidun entered the antiquities trade, he would be granted trade license under the British Mandate and from the Hashemite Kingdom. When Israel authorized the trade of antiquities, Mahmoud was issued one of the first antiquities licenses issued in the country. He would later forge close relationships with other merchants; slowly building a massive private collection that would go on to sell to political leaders, international museums, and private collectors globally.