King Sahure Accompanied by a Divine Figure

About this artwork

This artwork titled "King Sahure Accompanied by a Divine Figure" dates to ca. 2458–2446 B.C.. Executed in gneiss, this work represents Old Kingdom, Dynasty 5 artistic traditions. The piece demonstrates the technical skill and artistic vision characteristic of its period. The work's presence in a major museum collection attests to its significance in the broader narrative of art history. As part of institutional holdings, it serves both scholarly research and public education, offering insights i...

Art Historical Context

Step into ancient Egypt with *King Sahure Accompanied a Divine Figure*, a sculpture from the Old Kingdom's Fifth Dynasty (ca. 2458–2446 B.C.). Carved from dense gneiss—a tough metamorphic rock—this statue stands at 64 cm tall, weighing a hefty 127 kg, showcasing the monumental scale typical of royal monuments. It depicts Pharaoh Sahure, a key ruler of his era, striding alongside a protective deity, embodying the pharaoh's sacred role as intermediary between gods and mortals. Crafted by an unknown artist, the work highlights the technical prowess of Old Kingdom sculptors. Gneiss's hardness demanded exceptional skill with copper tools and abrasives, resulting in smooth surfaces and precise details that convey strength and divinity. This reflects Dynasty 5's artistic traditions, where stone carving advanced alongside the era's pyramid complexes and solar temples. Housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art since 1918 (Rogers Fund), this piece offers a window into ancient Egyptian beliefs in divine kingship. Its enduring presence underscores the civilization's cultural legacy, blending power, piety, and artistry for visitors today.