Block statues have been known in Egyptian art since the time of the Middle Kingdom and were favored until the Late Period. They are sculpted from a cubic block, from which only the head emerges. The thighs are brought up to the chest and the arms are usually crossed on the knees. They were less expensive and more durable than other types of statuary.
This block statue belonged to a person called Hor, who was a priest of Montu. It was consecrated to him in the domain of Karnak by his grandson, also called Hor. The dedication of this statue in the temple ensured that Hor would stay forever near the god of the temple and receive a part of the divine offerings.
Late Period, 26th Dynasty, ca. 664-525 BC.
Never cease to be amazed at the quality of this stuff from 2500 years ago.
so that's what a hor looks like?
ReplyDeleteThis is how they're made:
ReplyDeletehttps://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDFovLdup1-ojAzG6ey8PT_ccOFvnPetL-s3knu55CSRHYu3FtUe0ZzVlJ0XVF-806RsY3VLRh8u6mVPLiFU4EhWHloIZhH2q7PbUZBpeDssq8SvckvrxMWnff6UFcdqQyKKLyQRo4rRFdF5pU6h6G7KC8rHufS4GnoyRE6oyRw3oIF7Negas4udyK/s444/daily_gifdump_4090_22.gif
Shrink-wrapped to ensure freshness on delivery.
DeleteThe amused grin says it all.
ReplyDelete