The Mystery of the Sphinx of Tanis: An Egyptian Enigma at the Louvre

The Sphinx of Tanis , one of the largest Egyptian statues on display at the Louvre, is as intriguing as it is fascinating. Discovered in the ruins of the city of Tanis in Egypt, this colossal sphinx is estimated to be nearly 4,000 years old. However, its precise origins remain unclear. Several pharaohs, at different times, left their mark on the statue, reusing and reinscribing it, thus creating a work that spans the centuries.

Some of the inscriptions belong to Amenemhat II of the 12th Dynasty, but other modifications were made by later rulers, such as Merenptah and Sheshonq I. This superposition of inscriptions makes it difficult to identify the statue's true creator, but adds a fascinating layer to the Louvre's already rich history.

The sphinx, with its lion's body and human head, symbolized power and royal protection in ancient Egypt. However, this particular statue holds secrets, including its first use and its exact meaning in Tanis. Today, it is one of the centerpieces of the Egyptian antiquities department at the Louvre, attracting visitors from all over the world eager to unravel its mystery.

A journey to ancient Egypt in the heart of Paris

The monumental statue is placed in a dark and majestic room, reinforcing its aura of mystery. For Egyptology enthusiasts, this room of the Louvre is a real treasure, housing artifacts from ancient civilizations, including mummies, statues of gods and royal jewelry.

Discover contemporary works inspired by ancient art in our online art gallery , where the history of civilizations meets modern creativity.

The Sphinx of Tanis is a fascinating piece in the Louvre Museum, surrounded by mysteries. Here are some details about this iconic work:

Origin and discovery:

• The Sphinx of Tanis comes from ancient Egypt. It was discovered in the city of Tanis , located in the Nile Delta.
• It is carved from red granite and probably dates from a period between the New Kingdom (c. 1600 BC) and the Third Intermediate Period .
• This sphinx represents a royal figure with a lion's body, symbolizing power and divine protection. It wears the traditional headdress of the pharaohs.

A thousand-year-old mystery:

• One of the mysteries surrounding the Sphinx of Tanis is its exact origin and antiquity. The inscriptions on the statue mention several pharaohs, suggesting that the sculpture was reused over the centuries, a common practice in ancient Egypt.
• Additionally, archaeologists and Egyptologists continue to debate which king commissioned this work and why it was moved several times over time.

The Sphinx at the Louvre:

• Today, the Sphinx of Tanis sits enthroned in a large room in the Louvre's Egyptian Antiquities department, impressing visitors with its imposing size and mystery.
• This sphinx is among the monumental statues of the Louvre, recalling the immense influence of Egyptian civilization on the history of art.

The mystery of the Sphinx of Tanis continues to intrigue, and it remains one of the most enigmatic objects in the Louvre.