This gracious head once formed part of a votive statue that a man left in small temple, probably a shrine to Hathor, in the Sinai. Men who were sent as part of large mining or military expeditions to the Sinai often left images of themselves in the holy places as a way of honouring the goddess, and asking her help for a successful outcome of their assignment and a safe journey home.  

The sculptor has managed to convey the gentle resignation and patient spirit in this unknown man.  The care given to a small work is typical of the fine workmanship of the later Middle Kingdom.