Romano-Egyptian, probably Oxyrhunchus — Funerary stele depicting a boy with a bird and a ball — 4th - 5th Century A.D

Specimen observed during Antikarts catalog integration. The record is prepared from the technical and provenance information provided by the source. Photographs are preserved as condition evidence at the time of cataloguing.

Item: Funerary stele depicting a boy with a bird and a ball. Material: Limestone. Culture: Romano-Egyptian, probably Oxyrhunchus. Period: 4th - 5th Century A.D. Dimensions: 350 mm x 255 mm x 75 mm. Condition: Good condition with remains of polychromy. Includes a certificate of search in the stolen works of art of Interpol database.

Context markers: Romano-Egyptian, probably Oxyrhunchus. Dating indicated: 4th - 5th Century A.D.

Reference record preserved for study, comparison and documentation.

Provenance: Ex Dutch private collection, Maastricht, acquired between 1970 - 1980 This stele, typically made of stone or limestone, would have served as a commemorative or funerary object, a practice deeply rooted in Egyptian culture. The iconography of the boy, bird, and ball is rich with symbolic meaning, representing themes of youth, play, and innocence, as well as connections to both the daily life of the people and the afterlife. The depiction of children in art was relatively rare in ancient Egyptian iconography, but under Roman influence, such depictions became more common, reflecting a shift in the artistic focus towards individual representation and the everyday life of citizens.. Record preserved in the Antikarts Museum as a documentary reference. Stored documentary source: https://www.yourantiquarian.com/product/romano-egyptian-funerary-stele-depicting-a-boy-with-a-bird-and-a-ball/.