3. Egyptian society was largely driven by harmony (ma’at). All Egyptian art was created in a perfect balance since it reflected the supreme world of the gods. The artwork was designed and created to provide a use depicting the same way that the gods gave all good gifts to humanity. No matter how attractively a statue may have been crafted in ancient Egypt, it served as a home for a spirit or a god. Temple tableaus, pyramids, tombs, paintings, and other sculptures were all created so that their form matched an essential purpose. The purpose of every art of work was a reminder of the value of the individual, communal stability, and the eternal nature of life. This paper will outline the historical, cultural, and social significance of Egyptian artworks to the people of Egypt and the world.
Cultural Significance of the Egyptian Artworks
Different artwork had different cultural significance in Egypt. The Egyptian artworks continued to strengthen the link between art and cultural belief systems. Egyptians had a persistent concern with life, death, burial, and life after death (Mark, 2017). Their artwork was therefore a medium that reminded them of their culture and those that had passed away. The irresistible Egyptian concern for the afterlife is revealed in the most canonical and well-known Egyptian Monuments which are the Great Pyramids of the Pharaohs. The Pyramids were created from the smaller ‘mastaba tomb’ form into gigantic structures that remain to be the wonder of ancient Egypt. The pyramids remain as immense evidence of the unconventional engineering skill possessed by ancient Egyptians (Sarathy, 2010). It reveals how they were able to mobilize a huge labor force and their overwhelming importance of the afterlife.
Historical Significance of the Egyptian Artworks
Artworks tell us more about how people were, what they used to do and how their activities influence the present. Egyptian artworks not only tell us more about Egypt but also Africa at large. It is through artwork that archaeologists and other people can retrieve the past. The Egyptian artworks have revealed more historical figures, events, and activities that could not have been known. The great pyramids, for instance, have so many historical significances that can be learned. The pyramids tell us more about the ancient rulers of Egypt (the Pharaohs). The Pharaohs are one of famous figures that created history in Egypt. It is believed that each Egyptian Pharaoh built at least a pyramid during their reign and some of them are standing. These structures have put Egypt into one of the famous global locations.
The artworks also reveal the exceptional engineering skills of the ancient Egyptians. From crafting sculptures to paintings to building gigantic structures, the artwork traces the skills that transformed architectural engineering not only in Egypt but around the world. The Pyramids of Giza, for instance, were built thousands of years ago when there was no technological advancement. In fact, no clear description can tell how the pyramids were built. It is just an indication of the unique skills that the ancient people of Egypt had. The artworks also reveal some of the precious treasures that Egypt had. For instance, British archaeologist Howard Carter, 1922 discovered a magnificent tomb believed to be of a young Egyptian ruler, King Tutankhamun (Sarathy, 2010). Here, Carter came across the innermost coffin of King Tutankhamun which was made of nearly 250 pounds of precious gold.
Social Significance of The Egyptian Artworks
Social referred to that that brings people together. Egyptian artworks were also significant in bringing people together. It is believed that the construction of gigantic pyramids brought people from all sorts of life together to form a massive labor force. The artworks also brought unity because they had a common purpose that everybody had to follow especially when it came to the relationship with God. Even in the present day, Egyptian artworks continue to connect people all over the world. Archaeologists, Scientists, Researchers, and tourists each year travel to Egypt to have a look at some of the most famous Egyptian artwork of all time like the pyramids. The world gets connected to Egypt through these Egyptian artworks which are significant to both the Egyptians and the visitors. The visitors get to learn more about the structures while Egyptians benefit because they receive revenue in exchange for offering tourist attractions sites.
The Egyptian artworks are therefore important to the culture of the people there. The artworks define their beliefs, culture, and where they came from. They are also significant in the historical context of Egypt. Archaeologists, students, and those interested get to know more about the history of Egypt such as the Pharaoh kings, their tombs, and many more after examining these artworks. Additionally, the artworks preserve the heritage of Egypt and attract a massive tourist attraction bringing millions of tourists to Egypt. The country benefits from the artwork of its people in the present day as it receives foreign revenue from tourists and other visitors. Tourists also enjoy visiting some of the famous historical sites in Egypt. Overall, the artworks are significant entirely to the Egyptians and the world.
References
Mark, J. J. (2017). A Brief History of Egyptian Art. Ancient History Encyclopedia Limited. Retrieved from https://www.ancient.eu/article/1077/a-brief-history-of-egyptian-art/
Sarathy, J. (2010). Art of Ancient Egypt. CUNY Graduate Center.
