Antiquities Circle Lecture: A Magic Potion for a Bes Mug

Branko van Oppen, the Richard E. Perry Curator of Greek & Roman Art at the Tampa Museum of Art, presents the results of scientific examinations of samples taken from the residue in an ancient ceramic mug in the Museum’s permanent collection.
The mug is in shape of the head of the Egyptian guardian demon known as “Bes.” Mind-blowing results shine new light on the possible use of these Bes mugs and on the role of this figure in the lives of Egyptians during the Greco-Roman period.
The “Tampa Bes Mug” as it has come to be called, is currently on view at the Tampa Museum of Art!