Bearded male head
Limestone
Archaeologically undocumented
1st century AD

Based upon its distinctive soft-pointed "Phrygian" cap, this sculptured male head probably represents a priest. It is unclear if the head is Nabataean, but it wears a headdress similar to one on a terracotta Nabataean figurine with its arms raised in benediction, or prayer. This figure's beard and curled hairstyle conform to an Iranian artistic tradition dating back to the Persian Empire, roughly 2,600 years ago.

Department of Antiquities, Amman, Jordan

Photo: © Cincinnati Art Museum; Photographer: Peter John Gates FBIPP, ARPS, Ashwell, UK