King's Head with Egyptian Headdress but Greek Hair and Features
Ptolemaic Period
This head depicts a Ptolemaic ruler in a style which combines a traditional kind of Egyptian royal image with certain markers of the Ptolemaic Greek origins - in particular Greek hair. The particular arrangement of this king's hair suggests Ptolemy VIII (170-163 and 145-116 BC) or Ptolemy X (107-88 BC) may be represented.
The dark stone of the statue suggests it may relate to the series of lifesize or under-lifesize statues functioning as ritual statues in the native royal cults supported by the Ptolemies.
Link to a blog about Ptolemaic Art at The Met
Nile and Newcomers: A Fresh Installation of Egyptian Ptolemaic Art
This artwork is meant to be viewed from right to left. Scroll left to view more.