Statuette of Amun

Ancient Egyptian Cast in solid gold, this standing figure of the god Amun is an extremely rare surviving example of the precious-metal statuary that ancient descriptions say filled temple sanctuaries. Most were melted down centuries ago. It weighs 0.9 kg (2 pounds) and stands 17.5 cm (6.9 inches) tall.

Amun wears his characteristic flat-topped crown (originally with two tall gold feathers, now missing), holds an ankh in his left hand, and carries a scimitar across his chest. Traces of a loop on the crown suggest it could be suspended and worn by a temple celebrant or mounted atop a ceremonial standard.

For Egyptians, gold's color and sheen were associated with the sun, and the skin of gods was believed to be made of gold. This statuette literally embodies that belief. It's from Dynasty 22 (ca. 945-712 BCE), probably from Karnak, and is in Gallery 125 at the Metropolitan Museum of Art.