Relief of Nebhepetre Mentuhotep II and the Goddess Hathor
Unknown Artist
ca. 2010–2000 B.C.
Medium
Limestone, paint
Dimensions
H. 36 cm (14 3/16 in); W. 98 cm (38 9/16 in)
Classification
Relief, Temple wall, Mentuhotep II
Period
Middle Kingdom
Department
Egyptian Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of Egypt Exploration Fund, 1907
Accession Number
07.230.2
Tags
Art Historical Context
This limestone relief from around 2010–2000 B.C. captures a powerful moment from Egypt’s Middle Kingdom, Dynasty 11. It portrays King Nebhepetre Mentuhotep II, the ruler who reunified Egypt after a period of division, standing alongside the goddess Hathor. The scene underscores the pharaoh’s divine legitimacy, a central theme in Egyptian kingship, as Hathor—goddess of love, music, and nurturing—extends her protection and favor. Carved in sunk relief and once brightly painted, the work highlights the skill of ancient Egyptian artisans in blending sculpture with vibrant color to bring sacred fi...