Head of a Queen

Granodiorite

Egypt

Ptolemaic 330-30 BC

This over life-size Ptolemaic granodiorite head depicts an important Egyptian female. Her Hellenistic features are distinct, with a triangular forehead and delicate nose, while her hair is styled in a manner reminiscent of the ancient pharaohs.

Perhaps it depicts the powerful Arsenoe II, wife of King Ptolemy II Philadelphus of Egypt. There is evidence of an addition around the top and sides of her head. One could speculate that it might have been a shawl of deification or even a helmet

Provenance. Paul Wallraf 1897-1981 (By Repute)

  • Stewart Giles (1951-1993) private collection, acquired in London between 1978 and 1982, then by family descent

£POA