Question

Some interesting generalities are frequently made about Egyptian art. For example, it has been said that the spirit of the Old Kingdom is best expressed in the pyramids, that of the Middle Kingdom in its sculpture, and that of the New Kingdom in its painting. Does this statement seem justified to you? Support your answer with a discussion of relevant works of art.

Answer 1

• Egyptian Kingdoms from the old to the new had their own individual styles. The Egyptians always had a fascination with the afterlife. They must have looked at the short time spent in this life, and the length of time spent in the afterlife, and considered it of the utmost importance. That was an attitude that did not change from the old to the new kingdom.
• Their style did, however, change. The pyramids and their sculptures were an expression of the power of the pharaohs. It assured his passage into the afterlife, and his comfort there. Their art portrayed the pharaohs power, and his connection to the throne. They were considered gods, and the art and anything connected with them expressed this idea.
• The Egyptian Kingdoms from the old to the new had their own individual style. Each one portrayed the political and religious climate of their time. Even with the style changes their art has been enduring. We get a feeling for the power that belonged to the pharaohs as we gaze on the pyramids, and the art that was produced.
• Egypt’s Old Kingdom was one of the most dynamic periods in the development of Egyptian art. Artisans learned to express their cultural views creating and sculpting pyramids,carvings,tombs etc.
• During the middle kingdom,Sesostris lll considered himself to be the shepherd of the people. He was concerned about his subjects. There are lines of worry between his eyes. More personality is allowed to show through in the art of this period. Sculptures were more naturalist, and less imposing. Their bodies were more rounded, and their faces were more expressive.
• The New Kingdom of ancient Egypt was a golden age of architecture and art. A variety of factors combined to make the New Kingdom one of the most creative cultures of the ancient world.