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A dark stone sculpture has the body of a man and the head of a crocodile. The figure wears a tall elaborate headdress, a long wig, and a garment around its pelvis.

Statuette of Sobek

Late Period, Dynasty 26–30, 664–332 BCE

Egyptian

Egypt

Here the crocodile god Sobek, associated with water and the Nile River, wears an elaborate crown adorned with horns, feathers, and a uraeus (sacred serpent). Egyptian gods were commonly depicted with human bodies and animal heads. The animal referred to the god’s personality or characteristics, not his or her appearance. For example, the crocodile head of Sobek alludes to his fierceness. Statuettes like these were offered to the gods to ask for their help or in thanks for their assistance.

Copper alloy

Arts of Africa