Jordyn A. answered • 12/23/20
History and Writing Tutor - Get an Inclusive/Creative Edge!
The iconic sculpture of King Menkaure and his Queen is a formidable example of many values held sacred to Old Kingdom Egypt. Initially, the sculptor's use of a thick slab of slate, with minimal to no negative space, emphasizes the importance that this culture placed on permanence and unchanging power. This can also be seen in death beliefs; Pharaohs were said to continue living and ruling in the afterlife through their ka spirit, so artistic representations underscored this.
Additionally, the rigid poses that the two figures display are revealing. Historically, there was much interaction between ancient Egypt and the ancient Greek world. The similarities between their formulaic figural statues, such as the single foot forward placement, stiffened arms, and forward gaze, are reminiscent of the Greek kouros statues, thus visualizing the relationship between the two cultures.
Stylistically, the artist's attention to such a formulaic stylization is demonstrative of this culture's reverence toward order and tradition. In regards to gender, the Queen is shown approximately the same size as King Menkaure, which could signify her relatively equal treatment or respect in society. However, her body, particularly her pubic triangle, is visible underneath her tight-fitting garment (which additionally would be unrealistic for real movement), thus emphasizing her feminine sexuality and, possibly, fertility.
Egyptians of the Old Kingdom would have been intimately familiar with this visual language and, upon seeing the statue of King Menkaure and his Queen, likely would have had their cultural beliefs underscored by this impressive rendering of royal power.
