Collection research volunteer Isabella recently explored the story behind a fascinating object in the Powerhouse collection: a terracotta sculpture of the Apis bull (Object No. A6446), dating from 1st–2nd century AD Egypt.
This hollow terracotta figure, identifiable by the sun disc and rearing uraeus above its head framed by crescent-shaped horns, represents the sacred Apis bull—an embodiment of Ptah, the Egyptian god of creation. After death, the Apis bull was believed to become Osiris, god of the afterlife, and was mummified and worshipped for eternity.
Made using techniques introduced by Greek craftsmen, the front of the sculpture was moulded separately from the back, then joined before firing. This method speaks to the cultural fusion occurring in Egypt at the time, particularly in the city of Memphis where the Apis cult was centered. Terracotta figurines like this one were likely used as votive offerings at the Apis Sanctuary, left by pilgrims who came from across Egypt.
Between the Third Intermediate and Ptolemaic periods, and continuing into Roman times, terracotta statuettes grew in popularity. These affordable, mass-produced items reflected Egyptian religious beliefs and practices, while also appealing to the growing Greek population in Egypt. The Apis bull, in particular, retained its symbolic power and relevance across cultural lines, making such figurines meaningful to both native Egyptians and Greek settlers alike.
These small objects give us a window into the everyday spirituality of Hellenistic and Roman Egypt—offering insight into how people connected with their gods in deeply personal, tangible ways.
A big thank you to Isabella for her dedicated research and for helping bring this piece of history to life!
Research and story by volunteer Isabella. Blogpost by Karen Griffiths, (Volunteers Program Officer)