This dark quartzite sculpture is meticulously detailed with notable accuracy, portraying critical historical figures of Ancient Egypt's 18th Dynasty.
Renowned 14th century BC Pharaoh, Amenhotep III is prominently depicted, exhibiting a stern expression and forward-facing gaze. He is clothed in conventional royal garb, inclusive of a nemes headcloth with a serpent emblem and a flail held in his right hand, signaling his elevated status and rule.
The sculpture also features Sobek, the revered ancient Egyptian deity 'Lord of Faiyum,' denoted distinctively by his crocodile head iconography. Sobek, the god associated with fertility, military power, and the pharaoh's authority, is shown enveloping Amenhotep III's waist protectively. The god's physical manifestation is robust, accentuated by detailed musculature and piercing ocular representation.
Importantly, the two figures are seamlessly integrated as a singular construction, a distinctive characteristic of Old Kingdom design. Adding to this feature are three hieroglyphic inscriptions which identify the figures and speak to their societal roles.
Dated back to the 14th century BC, this sculpture visually illustrates the prevalent tradition of pairing rulers with deities, symbolizing both divine lineage and the protective patronage of the gods. In specific, Amenhotep III's association with Sobek reflects the ancient Egyptian concept of the nation's unity, hinting at the interconnectedness of religion, monarchy, and citizenry.
