Head of a Female Figurine
Unknown Artist
4th–7th century
Medium
Earthenware, pierced and slashed decoration
Dimensions
Overall: 1 11/16 x 1 1/4 x 1 1/8 in. (4.3 x 3.1 x 2.9 cm)
Classification
Ceramics
Culture
Coptic
Department
Medieval Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Rogers Fund, 1925
Accession Number
25.10.20.56
Tags
Art Historical Context
This delicate *Head of a Female Fig*, crafted from earthenware in Coptic Egypt between the 4th and 7th centuries, offers a glimpse into the vibrant of early Christian artistry in North Africa. Measuring just 1 11/16 x 1 1/4 x 1 1/8 inches, this tiny ceramic piece likely formed part of a larger figurine, possibly used in domestic rituals, as an amulet, or for personal devotion. Its classification within the Medieval Art department at The Metropolitan Museum of Art highlights the transitional era when ancient Egyptian traditions merged with emerging Christian influences. The artwork's standout ...