Iconography

Atum is most frequently represented in anthropomorphic form and is usually depicted in this manner wearing the dual crown of Upper and Lower Egypt. He may also be represented with the head of a ram, though this is more usual in depictions showing his solar or underworld aspects. The god is often depicted seated on a throne and when standing he may be shown standing erect or, to stress his aged aspect, leaning on a staff. Zoomor-

The god Atum, seated on a royal throne and crowned with the Double Crown of Egypt. 18th dynasty.

Luxor Museum.

Gold and silver foil-covered image of the Canaanitegod Baal The god’s name means ‘lord’ or ‘master’ and could apply to several deities with similar characteristics. Canaanite, c. 1900 BC.

Phically, Atum could be represented or symbolized as a serpent in reference to his chthonic and primeval nature, and also, in other aspects, as a mongoose, lion, bull, or lizard, and as an ape - sometimes in this latter guise armed with a bow with which he shoots his enemies. In terms of his solar connections he may be depicted as a scarab, and the famous giant scarab statue which now stands by the sacred lake at Karnak was dedicated to Atum. Yet again, in terms of his primeval nature, Atum could also be represented by the image of the primeval hill, and in the First Intermediate Period Atum and his hand’ appear as a divine couple.