Reprinted from: Honar Nameh, University of Art, Tehran, Volume 5, No. 14, Spring 2002 (A brief of the article in English; complete text and photos are available in Persian.)

A Symbolic Analysis of Objects Related to Egyptian Goddesses

Shahin Khani

Iran, 2002


Creating objects and works of art makes up the larger part of the art and industry of ancient civilizations. Objects, such as mirrors and seals, are often decorated with motifs that lead the researchers to closer knowledge of belief systems and traditions among ancient nations.

Egyptian oil containers, as well as mirrors, and the symbolic meaning of gold and silver in ancient civilizations, especially Egypt, are analyzed.

Those containers and mirrors, often in the form of human (at times that of great Egyptian goddess, Hatur), or animal figurines have been reviewed by some scholars for their symbolic meaning.

The oil containers, produced by Egyptian craftsmen, whose functions have not yet been fully understood, were probably used for oils, used in rejuvenation or as balms.

The spoon part of these containers is usually rounded, elliptical, rectangular or has a special form. Often, they are decorated with wave-like lines, signifying water in a lagoon.

In some cases, the bowl is decorated with aquatic creatures – duck, fish, frogs…, symbolizing their dual nature.






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