Ancient Egyptian Faience Lion figurine,Ptolemaic era 600-300 BCE,New Dynasty.

This piece measures 2 1/2long x 3/4wide x 1 3/4 tall.Artifacts this size are usually amulets. The absence of a suspension hole strongly suggests this lion is more likely an effigy used on an altar or funerary offering.A resting lion or lioness could represent her vigilant, protective nature, poised to act when needed.She is in great condition other than the small holes created by the kiln when it was fired. Is made of silica and given a blue green glaze them fired. The figure has a feature that suggests multiple copies were made at the same time.This has also appeared in other offerings that surround ceremonies and festivals.Imagine getting ready for a major celebration where thousands of people are converging to worship for weeks.With that,the offerings are sometimes made in hast as concern for perfection wanes.Also found during a recent excavation with animal mummys.This is a personal piece from my collection.It was purchased at Dixie antiques and has papers of provenance.