The Art and Science of Healing: From Antiquity to the Renaissance

Bes is an ancient Egyptian god whose main role was to avert evil influences. Specifically, he was the protector of children, women in childbirth, and people who are asleep. His protective role reminds us of the one suggested by the image of Isis nursing Horus. It is possible that etymologically the name Bes means an unborn or premature child. As seen in this clay figurine, the god is often depicted with dwarf-like or leonine features, his face with a wrinkly grimace. Our figurine wears a headdress, a shield, and a sword. As is true for many other Egyptian deities, Bes continued to be worshiped in the Graeco-Roman period, becoming a very common decorative household device.