Image Licensing : Figure of Apis Bull, Egyptian

EDITORS COMMENTS

This print showcases a remarkable bronze standing figure of the Apis bull, an iconic symbol in ancient Egyptian culture. With its sun disc delicately placed between the majestic horns, this statuette exudes a sense of power and divinity. Discovered in 1832 within the enchanting town of St Just in Penwith, Cornwall, its origins trace back to Roman Egypt during the first or second century AD. The mystery surrounding how this extraordinary artifact made its way to St Just only adds to its allure. Interestingly, a similar statuette was unearthed in York within a Roman context, while depictions of bulls resembling this one can be found on Alexandria coins from the same period. Such connections hint at widespread reverence for these sacred creatures throughout the vast reaches of the Roman Empire. Now housed within the esteemed Royal Cornwall Museum's Cornish collection (TRURI: 1865.14), this exquisite piece serves as a testament to both ancient Egyptian craftsmanship and cultural exchange during antiquity. Its presence invites us to contemplate not only its physical beauty but also ponder upon the intricate networks that connected civilizations across time and space. Through Mike Searle's expert lens, we are granted an intimate glimpse into history—a visual feast capturing centuries-old artistry preserved for generations to come.