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Carved head of king Akhenaten, Ancient Egyptian, 18th Dynasty, c1353-c1334 BC
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Carved head of king Akhenaten, Ancient Egyptian, 18th Dynasty, c1353-c1334 BC
Carved head of king Akhenaten, Ancient Egyptian, 18th Dynasty, c1353-c1334 BC. After he ascended to the throne in c1353 BC Akhenaten set about transforming the religion of Ancient Egypt, replacing the existing polytheism with a monotheistic cult of worshipping Aten, the god of the disc of the Sun. In addition, he decreed that Egypts capital was to be moved from Thebes to a new site 180 miles to the north, to be named Akhetaten (modern El-Amarna). These massive upheavals generated growing opposition to Akhenaten, particularly amongst the priesthood. In c1334 BC Akhenaten died and Egypt turned its back on his reforms. The city of Akhetaten was abandoned and Egyptians returned to worshipping their traditional gods
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Media ID 14846169
© Ann Ronan Picture Library / Heritage-Images
14th Century Bc 18th Dynasty Akenaten Akenaton Akhenaten Akhenaton Akhnaton Amenhotep Iv Arms Folded Aten Heresy Heretic New Kingdom Pharaoh Ancient Egyptian Ann Ronan Pictures Headgear
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the carved head of King Akhenaten, an influential figure in Ancient Egyptian history. Belonging to the 18th Dynasty and dating back to approximately 1353-1334 BC, this artifact represents a pivotal moment in Egypt's religious and political landscape. Upon ascending to the throne in 1353 BC, Akhenaten embarked on a radical transformation of Egypt's religion. He introduced a monotheistic cult centered around Aten, the god symbolized by the disc of the Sun. This departure from traditional polytheism sparked opposition among both priests and citizens alike. Akhenaten's reforms also extended beyond religion as he relocated Egypt's capital from Thebes to a new city named Akhetaten (modern El-Amarna). However, after his death in 1334 BC, Egypt swiftly abandoned these changes and returned to their ancestral gods. The once-thriving city of Akhetaten was deserted as people reverted to their familiar beliefs. The intricately carved head depicted in this print is not only a testament to ancient craftsmanship but also serves as a reminder of Akhenaten's ambitious yet short-lived reign. With its vibrant colors and detailed headdress, it offers us glimpses into the life and appearance of this enigmatic pharaoh. As we contemplate this artwork today, we are transported back over three millennia ago when one man dared to challenge tradition and reshape an entire civilization’s belief system – leaving behind an enduring legacy that continues to fascinate archaeologists, historians, and art enthusiasts worldwide.
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