Constructed from granodiorite, this nearly life-sized artifact from Egypt's New Kingdom period (c. 1550–1070 B.C) measures an imposing 231.8 cm in height. The statue depicts the lion-headed goddess Sakhmet in a strikingly restrained style, with a seated posture and hands resting on her lap. She is dressed in a conventional Egyptian sheath gown and a tripartite wig, embellished with a uraeus, or rearing cobra. The artisan's skill is demonstrated in the meticulously carved features including the fingers, toes, and countenance.
The statue is believed to have been among approximately seven hundred other similar statues discovered at the extensive Mut temple complex at Karnak, situated within the modern-day city of Luxor, then known as ancient Thebes. This suggests the likelihood of a significant cult surrounding Sakhmet. The artifact features inscriptions on its back pillar and base that provide historical context. Hieroglyphic texts praising Amenhotep III's designations and titles can be found, interspersed with references to Sakhmet as being cherished by Ptah, the creator god of Memphis. Notably, the names of Tutankhamun and Horemhab were etched over the original engraving featuring the royal sculptor Thutmose.
There are minor damages to parts of the goddess's uraeus and Menat counterpoise—a symbol of the goddess Hathor, affixed to her necklace, along with on the usurped rectangular cartouche on the base.
