Lady of Brussels

Virtual absence of a neck

This exceptionnal statue of a woman, often referred to in the literature as the 'Lady of Brussels', is one of the oldest examples of an Egyptian stone sculpture of a private individual. The archaic treatment of the forms, including among other features the virtual absence of a neck, allow us to date it to the late 2nd dynasty. The lady is wearing a heavy, finely braided wig and a long low-necked dress that reveals the shape of the body.

Woman of the elite class

Although the origin of this statue is unknown, it is no doubt a funerary sculpture from a necropolis near the capital, perhaps Saqqara. It is surprising that this woman of the elite class is presented alone rather than beside her husband. In 2012, the 'Lady of Brussels' was completely restored by the Royal Institute for Cultural Heritage. She has now regained her former elegance.

Inv. E.752