Arched Sistrum

380–343 BCE
Overall: 21.4 x 5.3 cm (8 7/16 x 2 1/16 in.)
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Location: 107 Egyptian

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Description

A sistrum is a musical rattle. Metal disks strung on wires along the arched upper end of the sistrum produced a rustling sound that was supposed to have a calming effect on the nerves of various deities, especially the goddesses Hathor and Bastet. Appropriately, this example is decorated with a Hathor head (a woman with cow’s ears) and a cat (the image of Bastet). These instruments are particularly associated with women, who played them as members of a temple choir.
Arched Sistrum

Arched Sistrum

380–343 BCE

Egypt, Late period (715–332 BCE), Dynasty 30

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