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Arched Sistrum
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A sistrum is a musical rattle. Metal disks strung on wires along the arched upper end of the sistrum produced a rustling sound that was supposed to have a calming effect on the nerves of various deities, especially the goddesses Hathor and Bastet. Appropriately, this example is decorated with a Hathor head (a woman with cow’s ears) and a cat (the image of Bastet). These instruments are particularly associated with women, who played them as members of a temple choir.
| Artist / Maker | Anonymous, Dynasty 30 |
|---|---|
| Date | 380–343 BCE |
| Culture / Origin | Egypt, Late period (715–332 BCE), Dynasty 30 |
| Medium | bronze, hollow cast |
| Dimensions | Overall: 21.4 x 5.3 cm (8 7/16 x 2 1/16 in.) |
| Department | Egyptian and Ancient Near Eastern Art |
| Type | Tools and Equipment |
About the Artist
Provenance & Source
Image & data: Cleveland Museum of Art, CC0 / Public Domain.
Condition
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