Egyptian Art

·         Art is an essential aspect of any civilization. Once the basic human needs have been taken care of such as food, shelter, some form of community law, and a religious belief, cultures begin producing artwork.

·         Process began in the Predynastic Period in Egypt (c. 6000 - c. 3150 BCE) through images of animals, human beings, and supernatural figures inscribed on rock walls

·         Egyptian society was based on the concept of harmony known as ma'at which had come into being at the dawn of creation and sustained the universe.

·         All Egyptian art is based on perfect balance because it reflects the ideal world of the gods.

·         Tomb paintings, temple tableaus, home and palace gardens all were created so that their form suited an important function and, in many cases, this function was a reminder of the eternal nature of life and the value of personal 

         Tutankhamun which shows the pharaoh with his wife Ankhsenamun on the right. c. 1327 BCE, National Museum, Cairo.

         On the front, Narmer is associated with the divine strength of the bull (possibly the ApisBull) and is seen wearing the crown of Upper and Lower Egypt in a triumphal procession. 

           Below,two men wrestle with entwined beasts which are often interpreted as representing Upper and Lower Egypt The reverse side shows the king's victory over his enemies while the gods look on approvingly. All these scenes are carved in low-raised relief with incredible skill.