Sarapis of Syria

Sarapis is a Macedonian-Egyptian synthesis, the cult of which was introduced in 3rd century B.C. Alexandria by Ptolemy I in an attempt to unify the Hellenic newcomers with the natives. Etymologically, Sarapis is likely an amalgamation of Osiris with the Calf God Apis. It may be identified with the Greek Hades, Lord of the Underworld.

This statue represents a majestic Sarapis sitting on his throne with Cerberus at his feet to his right. The sculpture dates from the second or third century C.E. and was acquired by the National Museum of Damascus in 1933 from a site called H̱irbat Ramdān. The exact location is unclear, as there exist several modern villages bearing this name, but it most likely is of Southern Syrian provenance.

Dimensions: 77 cm x 42 cm x 30 cm.

Substance: grained white marble.

(*) A monstrous multi-headed dog guarding the gates of the Underworld for the purpose of preventing the dead from escaping.

Thomas M. Weber. Sculptures from Roman Syria in the Syrian National Museum of Damascus. Vol I, from Cities and Villages in Central and Southern Syria. Wernersche Verlagsgesellschaft. Worms. 2006.