Figure Between Horses on Wheels in the Getty Villa, June 2016

Title: Toy in the Shape of a Rider and Two Horses on Wheels

Artist/Maker: Unknown

Culture: Romano-Egyptian

Place: Egypt, Africa (Place created)

Date: 4th century A.D.

Medium: Wood

Object Number: 82.AI.76.22

Dimensions: 14.2 cm (5 9/16 in.)

Alternate Titles: Figure between Horses on Wheels (Display Title)

Even to modern eyes, this ancient wooden toy looks instantly familiar. A rider stands between two horses. The four wheels are held in place with wooden dowels and the axles run through holes in the horses' legs and into the center of each wheel. Faces and sketchy details are painted onto the surface of the roughly carved figures.

Because this wooden toy was buried in the Egyptian desert air, it has survived more than 1500 years. In a moister environment, it is likely the wood would have rotted away.


Text from: www.getty.edu/art/collection/objects/21210/unknown-maker-toy-in-the-shape-of-a-rider-and-two-horses-on-wheels-romano-egyptian-4th-century-ad