Comparison and Contrast on Art Pieces

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Comparison and Contrast on Art Pieces

Statute of a Priest Vs Statue of Khafre Enthroned

Name: Statute of a Priest

Material: Black Basalt

Find Spot: Karanis, Egypt

Date: AD 50-100

KM 8218

Name: Statues of Khafre Enthroned

Material: Diorite

Find Spot: Gizeh, Egypt

Date: 2500 BCE

KM 1992.2.117

In the first piece “Statute of a Priest,” it is observable there are several similarities seen in second piece “Statues of Khafre Enthroned.” In the second piece, it shows the figure of a king. The coloration of the piece is dark based on the material used, which is diorite. It is considered a very expensive and hard stone used for sculpturing. The primary reason why this material is used is to ensure that the product is not damage hence increasing its durability. As for the sculpture of the priest, the material used is black basalt, which is different but maintains the black color. An additional aspect about the Khafre statue that is noticeable is the close proximity of the arms, legs, and body. This closeness is intentional in order to avoid damage occurring on the piece. Similarly, this is also observed in the priest statue. The facial expression of the king is relaxed, confident, and calm. In terms of dressing, the king is wearing a “nemes” which is an Egyptian headdress. An extra dressing item that is observed is the fake beard. This item is symbolic as it signifies kingship. In terms of the body structuring, the king is depicted as fit and young. However, from historical context, he did not look this way from a real life perspective.

The King’s statue is smooth and evened out that symbolically means that in Egypt, members of the loyal household were expected to have flawless bodies and skin. This flawlessness is not observed in the priest painting as the sculpture is unfinished. However, there are parts, which are sculptured to completion such as the lips, eyes, mouth, and nose. In the Khafre sculpture, the animal element is introduced, which signifies a particular important aspect in the surrounding. In the painting, the falcon is presented as a symbolic item that represents an Egyptian deity known as Horus extending his wings to offer protection to the king. The statue is symmetrical with the king sitting on the throne in a formal manner. The rigidity of his body elaborates his perfection. This element is useful in the creation of an atmosphere of timelessness whereby there is external stillness. Variably, there are no symbols indicated in the Priest statue.

Ashurbanipal Hunting Lions Vs The King as a Lion Hunter

Name: Ashurbanipal Hunting Lions

Material: Gypsum

Provenance/Find Spot: North Palace of Ashurbanipal, Nineveh, Iraq

Date: 645-640 BCE

Kelsey Museum accession number: 354261

Name: The King as a Lion Hunter

Material: Chalcedony, Prase

Provenance: Thebes, Egypt

Date: 6^th BC – 5^th BC

Kelsey Museum Accession Number 89132

Concerning Ashurbanipal Hunting Lions, it is a relief art piece, which depicts the Assyrian leader known as Ashurbanipal. In the historical context, the Assyrians were synonymous with creating artistic reliefs that indicated their possession of great power. This is justified the displaying of the king hunting lions killing some with arrows. The act of killing shows the mighty power possessed by the king. The element of propaganda is clearly demonstrated as the king shows his power overcomes even nature itself. The same aspect is depicted in the cylinder seal of King Darius where he illustrated killing lions with arrows. This activity holds the same meaning as that of the Assyrians. It mirrors the strength of their leaders. It is clear that the activity is being conducted in a secluded location, which is controlled to ensure that the king is protected. The depiction of the king in this art piece is that of a strong person who is not controlled by fear. This is because his muscles are shown in clarity.

As for “The king as a Lion Hunter”, the kind is also portrayed similarly as a powerful person. The differing element that is observed from this art piece is the manner of which the King’s hair is stylized. Additionally, two palm trees are seen with the depiction of their deity, Ahura Mazda. The inscription on the left, which is trilingual, is also noted. These elements are lacking in the Assyrian piece.