2025 Poster Session

This study offers a comprehensive analysis of a bronze statue of the deity "Osiris" from the Late Period of ancient Egypt, focusing on verifying its authenticity and determining its historical context. We used a combination of scientific and artistic techniques, with X-ray radiography as a central method. By employing X-ray imaging, we were able to explore the statue's internal structure, revealing signs of internal corrosion and the presence of supportive elements. These findings were crucial in confirming the authenticity of the statue, as these internal features distinguish genuine artifacts from forgeries, which typically have more complex and artificial internal supports.

In addition to the internal examination, we studied the artistic details of the statue. Key elements such as the facial features, the design of the clothing, and the tenon located at the base were carefully analyzed. These details played an essential role in helping us determine not only the time period of the statue’s creation but also the geographic region where it was produced. Based on these artistic characteristics, we concluded that the statue was most likely made in Upper Egypt, a region known for producing high-quality bronze works under the supervision of priests.

To further support our findings, we conducted a chemical analysis using laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP MS) on the statue’s outer patina. The results showed that the statue contained approximately 21.9% lead, a characteristic often found in bronze artifacts from the Late Period. This high lead content provided another layer of evidence for the statue’s authenticity, as it aligns with known examples from the same era. In the Late Period, lead was commonly added to bronze due to economic or technical reasons, and this characteristic was a strong indicator of the statue’s historical origin.

By comparing the artistic techniques and materials used in this statue with other well-documented examples from the same period, we further confirmed that the statue was crafted in Upper Egyptian workshops, most likely under priestly supervision. These workshops were responsible for producing religious items with strict oversight, adding both cultural and historical significance to the statue.

Moreover, we highlighted the advancements in metalworking techniques in ancient Egypt, particularly the lost-wax casting method. This method, which involved creating a wax mold that was later replaced by molten metal, allowed for intricate details and high craftsmanship in bronze statues. Understanding this technique helped us confidently link the "Osiris" statue to the Late Period.

In conclusion, we confirmed that the "Osiris" statue is an authentic artifact from the Late Period of ancient Egypt. It is consistent with the artistic and technical methods used during that era. Our study provides valuable insights into the development of metalworking techniques in ancient Egypt, contributing to a deeper understanding of the cultural and historical importance of these artifacts.

Keywords:  Metal statues, Lost-wax technique, Bronze artifacts, Laser Ablation Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (LA-ICP MS), X-Ray Radiography, Artifact analysis.