Features of creativity and innovation in the insignias, forms, and dresses of the statues of the middle kingdom kings
- Journal of Historical Archaeology & Anthropological Sciences
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Saleh Soleiman
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Abstract
This research focuses on the insignias, forms, and dresses newly introduced in the statues of the Egyptian kings of Middle Kingdom. Through study and analysis, approximately thirty-nine distinct postures, dresses, and emblems were identified as innovations specific to the Middle Kingdom. These elements were absent from earlier statues, from Early Dynastic Period until the end of the First Intermediate Period. These new features continued to appear in subsequent eras. The research reviews the earliest examples of statues that displayed these features. The adoption of these innovations began during the Eleventh Dynasty, though they were relatively rare, with most of them emerging during the Twelfth Dynasty. King Amenemhat III stands out as the most innovative ruler in terms of the variety of postures, emblems, and dresses in his statues, followed by Kings Senusret I, Senusret III, and Mentuhotep II.
Keywords
statues, middle kingdom, osirian form, sed festival, sma-tawy, amulet, ankh, double crown, khat, triangular kilt, cobra, bull’s tail, nine bows, outstretched hands, naos, standard, offering basin