The statue of Horemheb before Amun from the Luxor Cachette, housed in the Luxor Museum, is a well-preserved dark granite statue from the New Kingdom period (1319-1292 BC). This material selection is indicative of the era's popular resources.
This figurative sculpture illustrates Pharaoh Horemheb kneeling in the presence of the god, Amun. Horemheb, the central figure depicted, is shown making an offering to the deity, dressed in a traditional royal nemes headdress with distinctive detailing. His calm facial features may suggest submission and reverence.
The god Amun is represented as a smaller figure, seated on a throne. Recognized in the ancient Egyptian pantheon as the 'King of the Gods', Amun is depicted wearing a unique double-plumed headdress, suggesting a dual nature of obscurity and intense luminosity. His mysterious facial portrayal exhibits the ancient artisan's ability to merge mortal and divine characteristics.
Notably, the statue conveys a peaceful interaction between the pharaoh and the god, as indicated by Horemheb's kneeling posture and detailed hand gestures. Horemheb is seen offering a sphere—potentially symbolic of wine—while Amun returns this gesture with a delicate placement of hand on Horemheb's shoulder.
On the statue's reverse, a hieroglyphic inscription provides further historic context. The text mainly details Horemheb's names and titles, as well as his attempts to appease Amun, intending to secure divine favor in return. This aspect underscores the frequent use of art for political expression and religious symbolism, intending to validate their reign through an alignment with the gods.
