This royal statue depicts a king from the Ptolemaic Period in a hybrid style that reflects the blending of ancient Egyptian and Greek artistic traditions. Crafted from black granite, the statue’s exact origin is unknown. It is now part of the collection at the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization (NMEC).

Ptolemaic Egypt (305–30 BC) was a Hellenistic kingdom established after the death of Alexander the Great, when his general Ptolemy I Soter took control of Egypt and declared himself pharaoh. The dynasty blended Greek and Egyptian traditions, creating a unique cultural and political system. Alexandria, founded by Alexander, became a thriving center of learning, commerce, and culture, home to the famous Library of Alexandria and the Lighthouse, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

The Ptolemies ruled as pharaohs, adopting Egyptian religious customs while maintaining their Greek heritage. Despite periods of prosperity, the kingdom faced internal conflicts, economic challenges, and increasing Roman influence.

The reign of Cleopatra VII, the last ruler of the dynasty, ended with Egypt becoming a Roman province in 30 BC after her defeat alongside Mark Antony by Octavian (later Augustus). This marked the end of the Ptolemaic era and the beginning of Roman Egypt.