Statue of Sekhmet

The Statue of Sekhmet, on proud display in the Gallery of Ancient Egypt at the Royal Ontario Museum, is a striking life-sized sculpture of one of Egypt's oldest and most revered deities. Sekhmet, known as the goddess of war and protector of Ma'at, also has strong associations with healing and medicine. This statue, dating back to around 1360 BCE during the 18th Dynasty of the New Kingdom, is believed to have originated from the Temple of Mut in Karnak, Egypt.

Carved from polished granite, the statue stands approximately six feet tall and features Sekhmet seated with an ankh in her left hand. The lioness-headed goddess is a powerful figure, symbolizing both destruction and healing. The Temple of Mut, where many such statues were discovered, is renowned for its numerous depictions of Sekhmet, often shown holding a lotus flower and an ankh.

Thanks to the support of the Louise Hawley Stone Charitable Trust, this remarkable piece was acquired by the museum and has since become an iconic part of its collection. The ROM's Egyptian collection is extensive, showcasing nearly 2,000 objects from a total of approximately 25,000 artifacts. The Statue of Sekhmet is a highlight, offering visitors a glimpse into the rich and complex history of ancient Egypt.