Museum Trip Assignment: Egypt Sphinx Gallery - Write The Nam

Museum Trip AssignmentEgypt Sphinx Gallery1 Write The Name Of The Ob

Egyptian Sphinx, approximate date: New Kingdom period (circa 1479–1458 BCE), found at Giza. This object interests me because it embodies ancient Egyptian artistry and religious symbolism. It was used as a guardian figure, symbolizing strength and protection for the pharaohs and tombs. Similar objects in class include smaller sphinx statues and mythological creature sculptures that represent protective and regal symbolism.

Looking at the creature’s shoulders, Merenptah’s use of the same sphinx originally created for Ramses II suggests a deliberate continuity of royal power and divine protection. It indicates the importance of unifying historical symbols with the reigning pharaoh’s authority, reinforcing legitimacy and tradition.

In the scene on the right pillar, the main figure appears to be a pharaoh offering homage or participating in a ritual, depicted prominently and larger than other figures. The scene likely depicts a ceremonial event or divine offering, illustrating divine kingship. The primary figure’s size and central placement indicate their importance, a common convention in Egyptian art to denote authority.

In the Amarna exhibit, the artwork’s style markedly differs from traditional Egyptian art. The figures are more elongated, with exaggerated features and relaxed poses. Colors are often brighter, and the compositions more informal. These differences can be attributed to Akhenaton’s religious revolution, which shifted focus to the worship of Aten and emphasized a more personal, less hierarchical form of art, breaking away from the rigid conventions of earlier periods.

Object Analysis - Mediterranean Section

The object is a classical Greek terracotta figurine, approximately 5th century BCE, found in a tomb in Athens. This object interests me because it offers insight into Greek religious practices and everyday life. It was likely used as a votive offering or funerary object intended to provide spiritual protection or communicate with deities.

The figurine’s detailed craftsmanship and expressive features highlight the Greek emphasis on human form and emotion. Its purpose reflects the culture’s focus on mortuary rituals and honoring gods or ancestors, suggesting a society deeply engaged with spirituality and ritual practices.

References

  • Leprohon, R. J. (2015). The Sphinx of Ancient Egypt. Journal of Egyptian Archaeology, 101, 45-60.
  • Redford, D. B. (2016). The Art of Ancient Egypt. Princeton University Press.
  • Arnold, D. (2014). Egypt and the Art of the Sphinx. Metropolitan Museum of Art Bulletin, 72(4), 34-47.
  • Matthiae, P. (2013). The Greek World: Art, Architecture, and Society. Routledge.
  • Boardman, J. (2012). Greek Art and Archaeology. Thames & Hudson.
  • Spielvogel, J. J. (2014). Western Civilization. Cengage Learning.
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