Carved from sandstone, this magnificent
model of
a temple façade appears to rise from the
desert
dunes. The architecture consists of
four
columns
mounted over a fairly large base with a
lintel
above. Compared to the size and
complexity of
some Egyptian temples, this one appears
to
be
quite modest. It might also reflect the
influx
of
Greek ideals as related to architecture.
However,
despite the similarities to Greek
buildings,
this
temple is purely Egyptian. The lintel
is
decorated
with a central winged solar disk flanked
by
two
rearing uraei cobras, typical Egyptian
symbols.
The base features a central plaque into
which a
symbol has been etched three times. The
symbol
consists of an ankh resting in what
appears
to be
a shallow basket flanked by two staffs.
A
column
of pseudo-glyphs has been inscribed on
either
side of this central panel. As well,
two of the
columns have been decorated with empty
cartouches. Might this temple model
have
once
served as a soviegner for a foreign
merchant
to
take home with him? Perhaps it was a
model of a
famous temple? Perhaps it was used as a
building model to show the patron before
construction began? This temple façade
is a
stunning work of art in itself, but it
also
symbolizes the glories of Egyptian
architecture
and this civilization as a whole.
- (X.0385)
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