A Fragmentary Black Steatite Stele, Late Period, 716-30 B.C.

carved in high relief with the figure of pantheistic and ithyphallic Bes striding to right, with two sets of wings and two set of arms, his body merged with that of a falcon, holding scepters and serpents, the heads of eight animals emerging from his head, including a crocodile, an ibis, a falcon, a ram, a bull, and a jackal, the crown composed of a cavetto cornice surmounted by four pairs of horns, plumes, and uraei, a brief incised inscription, perhaps of later date, on the reverse.

Collection of Natacha Rambova (1897-1966)
Professor Donald P. Hansen (1932-2007), New York

damaged as shown, surface worn down in antiquity from usage
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

For related examples see Baltimore, Egyptian Sculpture, pls. CV, CVIII-CIX, and Marc Étienne, Heka. Magie et envoûtement dans l'Égypte ancienne, Paris, 2000, Cat. 141, illus. p. 55.