Object Annotation 1

Style: The figures are aligned to show hierarchical proportions. This composition of the figures shows the power and its increase from left to right. The smallest child to the sun. The use of limestone is typical for the period. It is abundant which makes it convenient, and durable which is ideal for its display in temples, tombs, and general sacred or highly esteemed places.

Context: Images like this were often used as propaganda to show and establish power. The use of limestone may signal that it was meant to last, perhaps as a part of a temple or tomb. The traditions of the time may suggest this piece was meant to ensure the families good standing among the Gods. The fact that it was discovered in a city could also suggest that the piece was meant to be some form of propaganda, or a reminder of the family's power.

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Subject: The figures depicted are of Nefertiti and her Pharaoh husband Akhenaten with their children. They appear to be in some form of worship of the Sun or Ra, the Sun God. This would have been popular as Ra was seen as an incredibly powerful God, even though Egypt at this time was polytheistic. Pharaohs depicted as having relationships with the Gods was incredibly vital to their maintenance of power.

Limestone relief at Amarna depicting Akhenaten and Nefertiti and their children adoring Aten, c. 1372–1355 BC