Delos

Egyptianizing Figurines from Delos

Hellenistic reinterpretations of Egyptian religion are illuminated through the study of terracotta figurines depicting Egyptian deities, primarily found in domestic contexts on Delos. Analysis reveals that many figurines represent deities or rituals linked to Egyptian festivals, as indicated by comparisons with religious texts, temple reliefs, and ritual objects. Most figurines were locally produced on Delos, as shown by clay fabric analysis and manufacturing techniques. Additionally, archival research on early excavation notes provides new insights into the archaeological contexts of these figurines, highlighting their roles in both domestic and temple cults. This study offers a novel perspective on the dynamic interaction between 'popular' and 'official' cults during the Hellenistic period.