|
|
Painted limestone, length 42-5/8 inches
Egypt, probably Kom el-Ahmar (ancient Hebenu), Dynasty 18, reign of Amenhotep III, 1391-1353 bc
The four portly figures on this painted temple relief bear emblems on their heads identifying them as nomes, or provinces, of ancient. Carrying trays heaped with offerings and leading in sacrificial animals, they represent the bounty of the land. Their faces are miniature portraits of Amenhotep III, in whose name they speak: "King Nebmaatra [Amenhotep III] has come to you, bringing every good thing in this land, so that you might give him all life, stability, and dominion." The god of the temple, to whom these words were addressed, appeared in the upper register. Only his feet remain. The other foot belonged to a standing figure of the king facing the god.
John L. Severance Fund, 1961.205 and 1976.51
|
|
|
