A multifaceted system of gods
Ancient Egypt knew an extensive system of gods, in which each deity held their own areas of responsibility, temples and cults. Many were associated with sacred animals and depicted in human form with an animal head – a characteristic feature of Egyptian iconography. The best-known god figurines with dedicated subcategories are Horus, Anubis, Bastet and Sekhmet.
Ra, Thoth, Hathor and the further Egyptian gods
Ra, the sun god, was depicted as a falcon or human with falcon's head and sun disc. Thoth, god of wisdom and writing, bears the head of an ibis. Hathor, goddess of love and dance, appears with cow's horns and sun disc. Ma'at, goddess of truth and justice, is recognisable by the ostrich feather. Seth, god of chaos, bears the head of a dog-like animal. Sobek, the crocodile god, stands for water and fertility. Amun, king of the gods, is depicted with a tall plumed crown. Khnum, the creator god with ram's head, and Khonsu, the moon god, round out the range.
Frequently asked questions about Egyptian god figurines
Which Egyptian gods are depicted as figurines?
Among the best-loved Egyptian gods as decorative figurines count Ra, Thoth, Hathor, Ma'at, Seth, Sobek, Amun, Anubis, Horus and Bastet. Many are depicted in human form with an animal head – the falcon head for Ra and Horus, the jackal head for Anubis, the cat head for Bastet.
How do I recognise Egyptian god figurines?
Egyptian god figurines are typically recognisable through their characteristic animal head or headdress: sun disc, atef crown, ostrich feathers or cow's horns. Royal symbols such as crook, flail or staff are also typical attributes. Further Egyptian figurines are available under Egyptian Figurines.
