Sculptor's model with a detailed depiction of... Lot 50

Sculptor's model with a detailed depiction of a vulture. Ancient Egypt, Ptolemaic Period, 332-30 BC. Limestone. Measurements: 8.7 x 8.1 x 1.2 cm. Model of an Egyptian votive relief sculptor. Made of limestone, it dates to the Ptolemaic period, 1st century BC. It is characterised by the supreme delicacy and precision of the incisions in the relief. As is usual in Egyptian artistic convention, the vulture is depicted in strict profile. There is great stylisation and attention to detail in the plumage. The so-called 'Egyptian profile' was intended to promote a magically appropriate and transcendent body, useful for propitiation in life and for continuity after death. The Ptolemaic dynasty was founded by Ptolemy I Soter, general of Alexander the Great. This dynasty ruled Ancient Egypt during the Hellenistic period from the death of Alexander until 30 BC, when it became a Roman province. Ptolemy I established the capital of this kingdom at Alexandria, a small town at the time that became the leading commercial and intellectual centre of antiquity. Its last ruler was Cleopatra VII. After her death and that of her son, Caesarion, the dynasty ended and Egypt was annexed by Augustus to the Roman Empire.