Art History Midterm Notes_ Lectures 3-13 , Egypt.pdf

Lecture 3 Understand the meaning of B.C., A.D., B.C.E., and C.E. BC: Before the birth of Christ AD: After the birth of Christ BCE: Before the Common Era CE:Common Era Understand why Egypt was a “success.” Impact of the Nile on Egyptian Lands 1. Fertile Soil: Th...

Lecture 3 Understand the meaning of B.C., A.D., B.C.E., and C.E. BC: Before the birth of Christ AD: After the birth of Christ BCE: Before the Common Era CE:Common Era Understand why Egypt was a “success.” Impact of the Nile on Egyptian Lands 1. Fertile Soil: The Nile’s annual floods deposited nutrient-rich silt, making the surrounding land highly fertile for agriculture. 2. Agriculture: Egyptians used irrigation to manage floodwaters, allowing for year-round farming and surplus crops. 3. Settlement: The fertile land along the Nile supported the growth of major cities and settlements. 4. Trade: The river served as a major transportation route, boosting trade and economic prosperity. 5. Cultural Significance: The Nile was central to Egyptian religion and culture, influencing art and mythology. 6. Management: Ancient Egyptians developed techniques to handle flood variability and ensure productive land use.  Has High Natural Defences - Has 10 cataracts as a defense but can also be hard to travel - The sahara - Mountains Strong rule and great highway system for trade What is a “ka”? The "ka" is a person's life force that continues to exist and requires care after death, reflecting the ancient Egyptians’ focus on the afterlife and the importance of sustaining their spiritual essence. Be able to spell pharaoh. The approximate dates of the Old Kingdom and New Kingdom Mycerinus and his wife (or mother) Old Kingdom, Ca. (circa, approximately) 2500 B.C. - Found in Giza - Made for Valley temple - approximately 25,000 B.C - Unfinished - Best seen from the front - Believed to have the “ka”, or lifeforce/spirit, of the king and queen in the sculpture - People left offerings, like food, to feed the “ka” and keep them alive - NO artist signature; was a team effort and was made for a religious purposes - Represents power of the Pharaoh - Used to house the pharaohs Ka - Gender roles are visually represented in sculptures, with men depicted as strong and angular while women appear soft and rounded. Men lead and women support them. Lecture 4 What is a millennium? Be able to use this word. Millennium: A millennium is a period of 1,000 years. For example, the 1st millennium A.D lasted from the year 1 to the year 1000, and the 2nd millennium spanned from 1001 to 2000. We are currently in the 3rd millennium, which began on January 1, 2001 and will end on December 31, 3000. 1 millennium = 10 centuries. What is a century? Be able to use this word. Century: A century is a period of 100 years. For instance, the 20th century covered the years 1901 to 2000 A.D, while the 21st century began on January 1, 2001 and will end on December 31, 2100. False beard and Nemes - Nemes = formal headdress - Both symbols of royalty and worn by the pharaoh Know the nine basic stylistic features of Egyptian Sculpture 1. Frontally oriented: faces forward, best scene from the front 2. The great plane effect: the forms occupy a single plane, faces forward, no motive to move around 3. Blocky/4-Square: you can sense the block of stone from which it was carved 4. Mass: the pose, wall behind them, the space between the arms is filled, one big block - MASS DOES NOT = STABILITY  5. Stability: they are standing standing straight up, she’s holding him;has building blocks (a system of verticals matched by horizontals) 6. Anatomically incorrect: motion: stiff; motion is not realistic no curves just verticals; level hips 7. Anatomically incorrect: pared down: simplified features, no veins or ab muscles idealization NOT realism 8. Anatomically incorrect: Reshaping: even, square knees 9. Monumentality: massive, pared down, looks powerful, imposing Lecture 5 Understand why certain stylistic choices were made in the creation of the statue of Mycerinus and his Wife. The figures exhibit idealized proportions, emphasizing strength and divinity. Understand the significance of the statue of Mycerinus and his Wife (?) in terms of gender and rule. Mycerinus stands in a striding position (hard, ridgied), which is common in pharaonic sculptures, conveying a sense of authority and movement.The queen stands beside him, often depicted in a more static pose (soft, round), symbolizing support and stability. (men lead and women support them) Chephren (Khafre) Old Kingdom, mid-third millennium B.C. Be able to list all aspects of the style - carved from diorite, showcasing the Egyptians' desire for durability. - features idealized proportions and is depicted in a sitting pose with hands resting on the knees, conveying strength and stability. - His serene expression, along with the nemes' headdress and hawk on his head, symbolizes royal authority and divine power, enhancing the pharaoh's majestic presence. Be able to discuss the sculpture’s function - The statue embodies the divine authority and power of Pharaoh Chephren. - It was created to serve as a ka statue, which was intended to house the pharaoh's spirit in the afterlife, ensuring his continued existence and influence. Be able to discuss the significance of the hawk (embodiment of Horus?) in the back. The hawk on the back of the statue symbolizes Horus, representing divine protection and the pharaoh's role as the embodiment of the god. This connection highlights Chephren’s sacred authority and reinforces the belief in the divine right to rule. Be able to discuss how it is a perfect abode for the ka. The statue acts as a perfect abode for the ka, made of durable diorite to ensure its longevity. Its idealized form and serene expression evoke eternal life, allowing the ka to thrive in the afterlife. Additionally, the state's role in rituals emphasizes its importance in sustaining Chephren's presence beyond death, making it a vital element of ancient Egyptian spirituality. Lecture 6 What is a mastaba? Arabic word that means “low-lying bench”; a type of ancient Egyptian tomb structure characterized by its rectangular shape and flat roof. Housed the statue of the deceased and depiction of their life and their family Understand simultaneous multiple points of view (SMPV) - Is the representation of a subject or scene from various perspectives within a single work. This technique can provide a more holistic understanding of the subject - Egyptian artists chose views that were most informative, combining different perspectives to show all elements clearly. - We NEVER speak of SMPV when about sculpture; can see from different pov’s but not simultaneously Pharaoh Sesostris III Middle Kingdom Ca. 1874-1855 B.C. Metropolitan Museum of Art, NY A true portrait? Explain. - Unlike earlier idealized representations, the realism of his statue reflects a shift towards authentic individuality, capturing the eyebrows and face lines of the pharaoh and emphasizing his age, which suggests wisdom and experience. - This realistic portrayal likely served a political purpose, making Sesostris III appear more relatable and reinforcing his legitimacy as a ruler. Significance of expression? The expression of Sesostris III is serious and contemplative, reflecting the burden of rule (aka the great weight of rule) he bore during his reign. This stern demeanor reinforces his authority as a strong leader and protector of Egypt, aligning with the expectations of a ruler. Additionally, the portrayal evokes a connection to the divine, suggesting that he was not only a political figure but also a mediator between the gods and the people. Tomb of Nebamun, scribe, grain accountant (Pool surrounded by trees) Thebes, New Kingdom, ca. 1360-1340 Understand thoroughly issues of style - One of the most striking elements is the pool surrounded by trees, which symbolizes paradise and abundance. - The naturalistic portrayal of the landscape highlights the artistic advancements of the period and the importance of nature in the afterlife. - SMPV: shows the scene from several viewpoints at once. We see the trees and the offering table from the side, but the pool and fish are shown from above. Lecture 7 Tomb of Nebamun, scribe, grain accountant (Banqueting) Thebes, New Kingdom, ca. 1360-1340 Understand Thoroughly issues of style - features an idealized representation that is highly stylized, evoking a sense of abundance and tranquility in the afterlife rather than adhering to strict realism. - The hierarchy of scale plays a significant role, as the size of figures often indicates their importance in Egyptian art; although not as pronounced in this scene, the slight enlargement of the fish subtly emphasizes the bounty of Nebamun's afterlife. SMPV  - SMPV: The top register shows a banquet scene, while the bottom depicts musicians and dancers. These activities are happening simultaneously, offering a glimpse into the lively atmosphere of the afterlife. Narmer Palette, Ca. 3000 B.C. (before the Old Kingdom)Found in the sanctuary of Hierakonpolis (dedicated to Horus) in southern Egypt Be able to discuss all aspects of the… Style The artistic style of the Narmer Palette is characterized by low relief carvings that showcase the skill of ancient Egyptian artisans. The figures are depicted in a composite view, where heads and legs are shown in profile, while torsos face forward, a common convention in Egyptian art. Symbols such as the smiting pose of Narmer, along with the cobra and falcon, emphasize the pharaoh's divine authority and power. The palette's overall design reflects a sense of order and stability, which was essential to Egyptian culture. Meaning The meaning of the Narmer Palette revolves around the unification of Upper and Lower Egypt. It depicts Narmer's victory over his enemies and his role as a unifier of the two regions, symbolizing the beginning of the First Dynasty. The imagery serves to reinforce the concept of the pharaoh as a divine ruler, chosen by the gods to maintain cosmic order. The palette may have had a ceremonial function, possibly used in rituals or offerings, which underscores its significance in ancient Egyptian society. Significance The significance of the Narmer Palette extends beyond its artistic beauty. It is a crucial artifact for understanding the early dynastic period of Egypt and the establishment of a centralized state. The palette represents the emergence of a unified Egyptian identity, marking the blending of various cultures and regions under Narmer's reign. Furthermore, it influenced the artistic conventions that would dominate ancient Egyptian art for centuries, making it a pivotal piece in the history of ancient Egypt Lecture 8 Djoser’s funerary complex. Old Kingdom, Dynasty III ca. 2667-2648 B.C. ALMOST 100 YEARS BEFORE CHEOPS Location: Saqqara Be able to understand the… Significance The significance of Djoser's funerary complex lies in its role as a monumental representation of the evolution of royal burial practices in ancient Egypt. Completed around 2650 BCE during the Third Dynasty, it is the first large-scale stone structure in Egypt, marking a departure from earlier, simpler burial methods. The complex symbolizes the transition from the step pyramid to the more refined pyramidal structures that would follow, setting the foundation for the architectural advancements seen in later periods. Additionally, it serves as a testament to the power of the pharaoh and the importance of the afterlife in Egyptian culture. Style  The architectural style of Djoser's funerary complex is characterized by its step pyramid, which consists of six stacked mastabas (flat-roofed, rectangular structures) of decreasing size. This innovative design reaches a height of 62 meters, making it one of the tallest structures of the time. The complex is surrounded by a large enclosure wall and features various temples, courtyards, and ceremonial areas, all decorated with intricate carvings and reliefs that depict Djoser's reign and divine favor. The use of limestone and the emphasis on symmetry and alignment with the cardinal points reflect the sophistication of ancient Egyptian architecture. Functions 1. Protecting Djoser’s Body ​ 2. Feeding the Ka: Ka-sculpture, 40,000 stone vessels storing food. ​ 3. Heb-sed: Performed eternally in the spirit world. ​ 4. Palace for the Netherworld: Maintaining order in both worlds. ​ 5. Power of the King: Political statement, visible from 20 miles away. ​ 6. Axis: Connecting earth, heaven, and the underworld. ​ 7. Benben: Symbolizing the first earth arising from the Waters of Chaos. ​ 8. Stairway to Heaven: Pyramid Texts, a spiritual ascent. ​ 9. Boundaries: Delineating sacred space from chaos. 10. Aesthetics: Lights and darks ​ Know what is the sed-festival, or heb-sed  In the world of the living, the pharaoh performed every thirty years the heb-sed. It is a re-enactment of his coronation when the gods and goddesses gave him their blessing and reinvigorated him.The sed-festival also united Egypt, north and south. It was generally performed at Memphis, the capital of Egypt. Know the meaning of apotropaic Apotropaic: refers to objects, symbols, or practices believed to possess the power to ward off evil or protect against malevolent forces. - The use of apotropaic symbols and rituals in Djoser’s funerary complex exemplifies the ancient Egyptians' profound belief in the supernatural and their commitment to protecting the pharaoh in both life and death. Lecture 9 Where is Giza? On the west bank of the Nile River, directly opposite central Cairo, Egypt. Pyramid of Cheops (Cheops in Greek;Khufu in Egyptian. He is the son of Sneferu) Location: Giza Old Kingdom, Mid-3rd millennium B.C. What are the five advantages to building the pyramid of Cheops on this site? 1. One square mile of fabulous limestone natural foundations 2. Quarries there on site, on the very same plateau 3. Another quarry for very fine limestone nearby 4. Site is near the Nile and therefore easy transport of supplies 5. On a plateau, pyramids visible for at least 50 miles What is the possible religious significance of the three chambers within the pyramid? Be able to describe two different theories. 1. Reign in three parts of the cosmos? - Each chamber could represent a stage in the soul's journey after death (the heavens (sky), the earth (living world), and the underworld (Duat)).  2. Change in religious thought? - As the concept of the afterlife evolved, the chambers likely accommodated new rituals and beliefs regarding the pharaoh's journey. What is the possible religious significance of the exterior shape of the pyramid? Be able to describe three different theories. 1. The Benben - embodies themes of creation, rebirth, and divine connection, playing a crucial role in the spiritual and architectural traditions of ancient Egypt) 2. Regenerative rays of the sun - The pyramids serve as monumental expressions of this symbolism, physically manifesting the intangible essence of solar energy and spiritual transformation. 3. Utterance 508: I have trodden those thy rays as a ramp under my feet whereon I mount up to that my mother meaning - reflects profound themes of rebirth, divinity, and the connection between the deceased and the divine. What are the theories about how the Pyramid of Cheops was constructed? What kind of ramps have been suggested? 1. Ramp Systems The most widely accepted theory regarding the construction of the Pyramid of Cheops is that massive stone blocks were transported on sledges up large ramps. These ramps were likely constructed of brick, earth, and sand, and were possibly coated with water or wet clay to reduce friction and facilitate movement 2. Sled Transportation The transportation of stone blocks likely involved sleds that were dragged over causeways made of materials like slaked lime or tafla. Lubricated with water and sand made it easier to move the slabs. 3. Internal Ramps  This theory suggests that as external ramps became impractical, builders may have constructed a system of ramps inside the pyramid to elevate stones to the upper levels. 4. Workforce Organization The organization of the workforce played a crucial role in the pyramid's construction. 20,000 to 20,000 skilled workers per crew were involved, were well-fed and received wages, and lived in workers quarters on site. 5. Use of the Nile for Transport Recent studies have highlighted the significance of the Nile River in transporting materials to the pyramid site. limestone blocks were shipped via boats along the Nile, providing a direct link to the construction site and facilitating the logistical challenges of moving heavy materials. Ramps - Straight ramps - Spiral ramps - Zigzag ramps - Internal ramps Lecture 10 The approximate dates (New Kingdom mostly) New Kingdom Dynasy XVII-XX, 1550-1069 B.C. The location of the Temple of Amun-Re? Thebes, near the nile, right of Luxor Where is Thebes? along the Nile about 800 kilometers (500 mi) south of the Mediterranean. Chief deity of Thebes? Amun, Mut (Amun's wife), and Khonsu (moon god, their son)  - Amun-Ra is associated with rams What does an Egyptian temple gateway, a pylon, look like? Pylon, a greek word that means “gate” What is a column? A capital? Why are the profiles of some Egyptian columns slightly curved? - It enhances their aesthetic appeal while mimicking natural plant forms (organic), reflecting the ancient Egyptians' deep connection to nature and their architectural creativity. - Aids in weight distribution, showcasing their engineering ingenuity. What is entasis? Entasis: the convexity of the shaft of a column What is a sunken relief (as opposed to a raised relief)? Why are they used? The sunken reliefs allow for the outline of the column to be uninterrupted, not broken by a raised relief. What is a clerestory? Clerestory: a raised section of a wall that contains a series of windows to admit light to the interior What is a longitudinal axis? Longitudinal Axis: A line that lies along the length of an essentially symmetrical building and bisects it Lecture 11 13 principles of Egyptian architecture as made clear in the Temple of Amun-Re at Karnak 1. Piety: a respect for and reverence for the gods - The constructing of a sanctuary, a chapel maybe, advertises your piety to the gods - The construction also advertises pharaoh’s own divine descent 2. An Agglomerate Character - Made of many smaller parts that combine together to make the whole temple 3. Center of Power: - the actual presence of the divine in the sanctuary 4. Who gets in?: - limited access 5. The journey to the center of the power - The necessary journey to the center of power in the (moving along the)longitudinal axis 6. Progression: - Spaces become smaller, darker, and the floor level higher as you come closer to the sacred - Same pic as 5 7. Alternatives for you & me: - Another chance to visit with the divinity (has portable parts where people can come closer too) 8. Processional Architecture: - Moving the barque for processions or rituals 9. Demarcation of Profane and Sacred Space, Order and Chaos - Well ordered interior - The Pylon (scene in picture below) 10. Connecting with heavens: - Built towards the sky 11. Temple of as microcosm  - Temple = the world in miniature (aka a microcosm) 12. It’s alive: - The sun’s light unfolds the papyrus bud The other papyri, left in darker areas, do not grow as high or fully blossom 13. Colorful: - Not drab and boring Lecture 12 Hatshepsut’s funerary complex. New Kingdom (1550-1069) Understand the full significance of the location Located at Deir el-Bahari, it is significant for its geographical, symbolic, architectural, cultural, and archaeological aspects. Nestled near Thebes, the  capital of Ancient Egypt, and against the dramatic backdrop of the Theban Mountains, the site reflects ancient beliefs about the afterlife and a connection to the divine, particularly through its alignment with solar events that emphasize Hatshepsut's devotion to the sun god Amun-Ra. Architecturally, the complex is a marvel, designed to harmonize with the natural landscape and featuring a multi-tiered structure that enhances the visitor experience. Understand the functions of Hatshepsut’s funerary complex. 1. It is a barque station, a place for the barque of Amun-Re to stay, during the Beautiful Festival of the Valley 2. It is a mortuary temple in large part for her. 3. It is a temple complex to several gods. Understand why it was built. - To commemorate her legacy as a pharaoh and ensure her place in history. It served as a significant site for her transition into the afterlife, reflecting the ancient Egyptian belief in life after death. - It was a powerful tool for political propaganda, reinforcing Hatshepsut’s legitimacy as one of the few female pharaohs in a predominantly male-dominated society. - The entire complex faces east towards the rays of the life-giving morning sun.It will revivify her. - The site is an area between the living and the dead. This is a transitional area between life and death. (She in fact is buried like other royalty in the Valley of Kings beyond this cliff.) Understand the use of the Longitudinal axis, ramps, & processional architecture in Hatshepsut’s funerary complex. Monumental RAMPS: fabulous processional architecture; that is, the monument is designed with the idea of a procession in mind. Understand how the funerary complex conforms to basic principles of Egyptian architecture such as at Karnak. - Longitudinal Axis - Higher - Smaller - Darker Be able to describe the Beautiful Festival of the Valley. - Revivifying the dead. Bringing the barque of Amun-Re from Karnak over to the western cemeteries - Connecting Karnak with the cemeteries of western Thebes a time of celebration - During spring to mid-summer, before the flooding of the Nile. It’s at harvest time. Lecture 13 What is the Amarna Period (New Kingdom)? refers to a specific era in ancient Egyptian history during the 18th Dynasty, approximately from 1353 to 1336 BCE. Key characteristics of this period include: Cultural Revolution: A shift in art, religion, and society. Religious Reform: Introduction of worship centered around the sun disk, Aten. Capital City: Establishment of a new capital city called Akhetaten (modern-day Amarna) by Pharaoh Akhenaten. Artistic Changes: Departure from traditional Egyptian art to more realistic and intimate portrayals of people and daily life. Who was the Pharaoh Akhenaten? - ruled from 1353 to 1336 BCE and is best known for his radical religious reforms promoting the worship of Aten. - relocated the capital to Akhetaten and initiated a monotheistic approach that disrupted traditional Egyptian practices. - His reign is associated with innovative art and architecture (morrealism). Who was Queen Nefertiti? - Akhenaten's wife was celebrated for her beauty and influential role in these reforms. - Played a vital part in promoting Aten worship and is famously represented by the bust of Nefertiti, which symbolizes ancient Egyptian art and culture. 3. What is monotheism, polytheism? Monotheism: belief in one god Polytheism: belief in multiple gods 4. What was the Aten? - The sun disk and a prominent deity during the Amarna Period, symbolizing life and nourishment. - Elevated to the status of the sole god by Akhenaten, promoting monotheism in ancient Egypt. - Temples were built for him, and he was often depicted radiating life-giving rays to the Pharaoh and his family, marking a significant shift from traditional polytheistic worship. This all happens in the New Kingdom (1550-1069), the approximate date Akhenaten (1352-1336) Colossal sculpture of Akhenaten 239 cm high (extant) Traces of colored collar Discovered probably July 1925 at Karnak Cairo Museum Be able to describe possible…reasons for Akhenaten’s appearance (distortions) As the Egyptian would have seen it... The “distortions” are less strongly felt, but they are still present. Medical - He had a medical condition, perhaps exaggerated here (Marfan Syndrome) - Tall stature, slender bones - Prominent clavicles - Wide pelvic girdle - Often localized distribution of subcutaneous fat - Poor muscle tone - Religious - With the new religion, it made sense to have a new image - The masculine-feminine made sense in the new religion Aesthetic - Others are so portrayed because they are on the team: you got to wear the same uniform... Nefertiti (Sculptor’s model) Found in the workshop of Thutmose (6th of December 1912) by Borchardt Be able to discuss the style of this sculpture. - Colorful = fertility - Large headeress = her royal status Long neck - Face focused= easier for the sculptor to see the details of her face - Not as idealized as the art of the Old Kingdom Body of a Woman Quartzite; 29 cm high; Louvre, Paris; findspot unknown Princess Meretaten?, as a teen in the 6-8 year of reign Be able to describe the body. - Breasts are emphasized by the high waist - Belly is emphasized by large navel and the fold of the flesh over the pubic triangle - Note the convergence of the lines of her thighs towards the pubic area Be able to discuss the use of drapery here: How it reveals and emphasizes the body underneath - The artist emphasizes these curves further by carving subtle indentations along the lines of the body, suggesting the weight and pressure of the fabric. This creates a sense of volume and roundness, highlighting the female form. - The fabric clings tightly to the body, revealing the contours of the breasts, stomach, and hips. How the folds of the shawl contrast with those of the lighter tunic - The smooth, polished surface of the skin contrasts sharply with the rough, striated texture of the fabric. - This contrast accentuates the softness and sensuality of the flesh, making it appear even more lifelike. How the folds develop their own patterns - The drapery develops its own intricate patterns. The folds and pleats flow across the body, creating a sense of movement and dynamism. - The diagonal lines created by the draping across the torso draw the eye upwards, emphasizing the curves of the figure. How the drapery probably contrasted with the flesh. - The deep, rich color of the stone enhances the contrast between the drapery and the body. - While we can't see the original color of the sculpture, the current reddish tone suggests warmth and vitality. This contrasts with the implied coolness and smoothness of the flesh, further emphasizing the tactile qualities of the sculpture.