This life-sized wooden bust has been coated with gesso and then painted with red ochre for the face (typical color for male skin) and a golden crown. The crown features the Cobra goddess, Wadjyt, associated with Lower Egypt. The rearing cobra, a uraeus (from the Greek meaning 'to rear up'), was also a symbol of kingship.
It is believed that the bust represents the young king more human than divine. The bust has pierced ears, a common practice for both sexes at that time.
It is suggested that such a life-sized 'mannequin' would be used to display jewelry or as a clothes-dummy for garments.