Egyptian Gilt-Wood Bust of the Goddess Isis Late Period, 664–332 BC

Egyptian Gilt-Wood Bust of the Goddess Isis
Late Period, 664–332 BC

Carved from a single log of wood, this finely modelled anthropoid bust represents a goddess, most probably Isis, shown with serene, idealised features characteristic of Late Period Egyptian art. The face retains traces of gesso and original gilding, while the eyes are inlaid in glass with black pupils and bronze-inlaid brows, creating a refined polychrome effect. Originally forming the upper section of an anthropoid wooden coffin or coffin lid, the bust served as the symbolic “face” of the deceased, identifying them with Osiris and invoking the protective and regenerative powers of Isis in the afterlife.

The cult of Isis originated in ancient Egypt, where she functioned within the Osirian triad as the consort of Osiris and mother of Horus. Her role expanded during the Late Period, when Isis evolved into a universal deity associated with kingship, fertility, and protection.
Archaeological and textual evidence—ranging from temple reliefs at Philae to Greek inscriptions—demonstrates the deliberate theological elevation of Isis as a supreme, independent divinity whose attributes encompassed those of numerous earlier goddesses.

Anthropoid depictions of Isis—representing the goddess in fully human form—appeared from the New Kingdom (ca. 1550–1070 BC) onward, reflecting a general theological shift toward anthropomorphism in Egyptian religion. Earlier hybrid forms gave way to naturalistic portrayals emphasizing her identity as divine mother, queen, and mourner within the Osirian cycle. By the Late period, her anthropoid image dominated temple reliefs and statuary, facilitating the cult’s diffusion into the Hellenistic world, where Isis was easily assimilated to Greek and Roman goddesses.

Provenance: An old private collection in France, acquired between 1960-1970, and thence by descent. Collection G., France, acquired from the above, and thence by descent. Hôtel des Ventes de Monte-Carlo, Monaco, 19 January 2022, lot 43. A private collector, acquired from the above.
Condition: Good condition with expected wear, commensurate with age. Obvious losses, natural imperfections including splits and splinters, rubbing and flaking to gilt and gesso—some with associated touchups, small chips, expected weathering, encrustations, and soiling. The ears and attributes lost.
French Export License: Certificat d’exportation pour un bien culturel, no. 247970, dated 30 July 2024, has been granted. A copy accompanies this lot.

Weight: 5,945 g
Dimensions: Height 42cm by 27cm by 22cm