3.3 Egyptian mythology in art
10 min read•august 21, 2024
Egyptian mythology in art reflects complex beliefs about creation, life, and . Symbolism in Egyptian art draws heavily from these mythological origins, using visual representations to convey spiritual concepts and .
Ancient Egyptian art is rich in symbolism, using visual elements to convey religious and philosophical ideas. These symbolic representations served both decorative and functional purposes, often imbued with magical or protective properties in daily life and the afterlife.
Origins of Egyptian mythology
- Egyptian mythology forms the foundation of ancient Egyptian culture and art, reflecting complex beliefs about creation, life, and the afterlife
- Symbolism in Egyptian art draws heavily from these mythological origins, using visual representations to convey spiritual concepts and cosmic order
Creation myths
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- Heliopolis creation myth centers around the sun god Atum emerging from primordial waters (Nun) to create the world
- Hermopolis creation story focuses on the Ogdoad, eight primordial deities representing aspects of chaos
- Memphis creation narrative attributes the world's creation to Ptah through the power of divine speech and thought
- These creation myths often depicted in temple reliefs and papyri, symbolizing the emergence of order from chaos
Pantheon of deities
- Egyptian pantheon includes hundreds of gods and goddesses, each associated with specific aspects of life and nature
- Major deities include (sun), (afterlife), (motherhood), (kingship), and ()
- Gods often portrayed with animal heads or features, symbolizing their unique attributes and powers
- Deities frequently depicted in hierarchical arrangements, reflecting their relative importance in different regions or periods
Afterlife beliefs
- Ancient Egyptians believed in a complex afterlife journey, requiring proper burial rituals and tomb preparations
- Concept of (cosmic order and justice) central to afterlife judgment, often depicted as weighing the deceased's heart against a feather
- (Aaru) represented the ideal afterlife, a paradise mirroring earthly life but free from hardship
- Afterlife beliefs heavily influenced funerary art, including tomb paintings, amulets, and the
Symbolism in Egyptian art
- Egyptian art is rich in symbolism, using visual elements to convey complex religious and philosophical concepts
- Symbolic representations in art served both decorative and functional purposes, often imbued with magical or protective properties
Animal representations
- Animals in Egyptian art symbolize specific deities or their attributes (cats for Bastet, falcons for Horus)
- Composite creatures combine human and animal features, representing divine aspects or supernatural beings
- Sacred animals often mummified and depicted in art, reflecting their importance in religious practices
- Animal symbolism extends to hieroglyphs, where animal signs represent sounds or concepts
Hieroglyphic symbols
- Hieroglyphs serve both as a writing system and a source of artistic symbolism in Egyptian art
- symbol represents life and immortality, frequently depicted held by gods or given to pharaohs
- symbolizes stability and the backbone of Osiris, often used in funerary contexts
- (wadjet) represents protection, healing, and wholeness, commonly used as an amulet
Colors and their meanings
- Egyptian artists used a limited but symbolic color palette in their works
- Blue and green associated with rebirth, vegetation, and the Nile, often used to depict gods like Osiris and Amun
- Red symbolizes both life and destruction, associated with the desert god Seth and used to ward off evil
- Gold represents the flesh of the gods and the sun, extensively used in royal and divine imagery
- Black signifies fertility and regeneration, linked to the rich soil of the Nile and the god Anubis
Major mythological themes
- Egyptian mythology encompasses recurring themes that reflect the culture's worldview and values
- These themes heavily influence artistic representations, providing a visual narrative of cosmic and earthly events
Solar cycle
- Daily journey of the sun god Ra across the sky in his solar barque central to Egyptian cosmology
- Depicted in tomb paintings and temple reliefs, showing Ra's transformation from (Khepri) to falcon (Ra) to ram (Atum)
- Night journey through the underworld represents the sun's rebirth and triumph over chaos
- Solar cycle symbolism extends to kingship, with pharaohs associated with Ra's daily renewal
Osiris myth
- Osiris myth central to Egyptian concepts of kingship, death, and resurrection
- Narrative depicts Osiris's murder by his brother Seth, resurrection by his wife Isis, and ascension as ruler of the underworld
- Artistic representations include Osiris as a mummified figure with green skin, symbolizing rebirth
- Isis often depicted with wing-like arms, protecting Osiris or their son Horus
Journey through the underworld
- Concept of the deceased's journey through the Duat (underworld) heavily featured in funerary art
- Book of the Dead provides spells and instructions for navigating the afterlife, often illustrated on papyri or tomb walls
- Judgment scene (weighing of the heart) commonly depicted, showing Anubis weighing the deceased's heart against Ma'at's feather
- Artistic representations include various obstacles and demons the deceased must overcome to reach the Field of Reeds
Artistic depictions of deities
- Egyptian gods and goddesses were central figures in art, representing cosmic forces and natural phenomena
- Artistic conventions for depicting deities evolved over time, reflecting changing religious and cultural beliefs
Anthropomorphic vs zoomorphic
- Egyptian deities often represented in both human (anthropomorphic) and animal (zoomorphic) forms
- Anthropomorphic depictions emphasize human-like qualities and interactions of gods
- Zoomorphic representations highlight specific attributes associated with animals (strength, wisdom, fertility)
- Composite forms combine human bodies with animal heads, symbolizing the multifaceted nature of deities
Attributes and iconography
- Gods and goddesses identified by specific attributes, crowns, and handheld objects
- Isis often depicted with a throne headdress, symbolizing her role as the mother of kings
- Horus represented with a falcon head or as a falcon, holding the was-scepter symbolizing power
- Anubis shown with a jackal head, often holding the ankh (life) and djed (stability) symbols
Composite deities
- Some Egyptian gods combined aspects of multiple deities, resulting in complex iconography
- Amun-Ra merges the hidden nature of Amun with the solar aspects of Ra, often depicted with a ram's head and sun disk
- Sekhmet-Bastet combines the fierce lioness goddess with the protective cat goddess, representing duality in nature
- Ptah-Sokar-Osiris unites creator, death, and resurrection aspects, often depicted as a mummiform figure with a falcon head
Funerary art and mythology
- Funerary art played a crucial role in ancient Egyptian burial practices, ensuring the deceased's successful journey to the afterlife
- Mythological themes and symbols in funerary art provided magical protection and guidance for the deceased
Tomb paintings
- Wall paintings in tombs depict scenes from daily life, religious rituals, and the afterlife journey
- Offering scenes show the deceased receiving food and goods for the afterlife
- Agricultural scenes represent the ideal afterlife in the Field of Reeds
- Mythological scenes, such as the weighing of the heart, provide magical assistance in the afterlife
Sarcophagi and mummy masks
- Sarcophagi often decorated with protective deities, spells, and scenes from the Book of the Dead
- Anthropoid (human-shaped) coffins became popular, featuring idealized portraits of the deceased
- Mummy masks, such as the famous mask of Tutankhamun, represent the deceased in a divine, idealized form
- Canopic jars, storing mummified organs, often depicted with heads of the four sons of Horus as protective guardians
Book of the Dead
- Collection of spells and instructions to guide the deceased through the afterlife
- Illustrated on papyrus scrolls or tomb walls, combining text and images
- Common scenes include the weighing of the heart, the deceased presenting offerings to gods, and navigating the underworld
- Vignettes depict protective deities, magical objects, and obstacles the deceased must overcome
Royal iconography
- Royal imagery in ancient Egyptian art emphasized the divine nature and cosmic role of the pharaoh
- Symbolic elements in royal iconography reinforced the pharaoh's authority and connection to the gods
Pharaohs as divine beings
- Pharaohs depicted with idealized, youthful bodies regardless of their actual age or appearance
- Royal figures often shown larger than other humans, emphasizing their divine status
- Pharaohs frequently portrayed in the company of gods or receiving divine blessings
- Cartouches containing the pharaoh's name written in hieroglyphs, symbolizing their eternal existence
Crowns and regalia
- Double crown (pschent) combines the white crown of Upper Egypt and the red crown of Lower Egypt, symbolizing unified rule
- Blue crown (khepresh) associated with warfare and often depicted in battle scenes
- Uraeus (cobra) on the forehead represents the goddess Wadjet and royal authority
- Crook and flail held by pharaohs symbolize their roles as shepherd of the people and enforcer of order
Symbolic gestures
- Smiting scene shows the pharaoh striking enemies, symbolizing triumph over chaos and maintaining cosmic order
- Offering scenes depict the pharaoh presenting gifts to gods, reinforcing their role as intermediary between humans and deities
- Embracing gestures between pharaohs and gods represent divine approval and protection
- Ankh symbol often shown being offered to the pharaoh's nose by gods, symbolizing the gift of life and divine breath
Mythological creatures
- Ancient Egyptian art features various mythological creatures, combining elements of real animals with supernatural attributes
- These creatures often serve symbolic roles in religious and funerary contexts
Sphinx
- Composite creature with a human head and lion's body, symbolizing royal power and wisdom
- Great of Giza associated with the pharaoh Khafre, representing his divine authority
- Sphinxes often depicted as guardians of and tombs, protecting sacred spaces
- Ram-headed sphinxes associated with the god Amun, particularly in Thebes (modern Luxor)
Ammit
- Fearsome creature with the head of a crocodile, body of a lion, and hindquarters of a hippopotamus
- Known as the "Devourer of the Dead" in the judgment scene of the afterlife
- waits to consume the hearts of those deemed unworthy in the weighing of the heart ceremony
- Represents the fate of those who fail to live according to Ma'at (cosmic order and justice)
Bennu bird
- Heron-like bird associated with creation, rebirth, and the sun god Ra
- Believed to be the ba (soul) of Ra and connected to the cycle of time
- Often depicted with a distinctive two-feathered crest and long beak
- Inspiration for the Greek phoenix myth, symbolizing cyclical renewal and resurrection
Sacred architecture
- Ancient Egyptian architecture incorporated symbolic elements reflecting cosmic and religious beliefs
- Temple and tomb designs served both practical and spiritual purposes, embodying concepts of divine order
Temples and their symbolism
- Temples designed as "houses of eternity" for the gods, mirroring the structure of the cosmos
- Hypostyle halls represent primordial marshes, with columns symbolizing papyrus or lotus plants
- Sanctuaries typically dark and small, housing the god's statue and accessible only to high-ranking priests
- Relief carvings on temple walls depict rituals, mythological scenes, and interactions between gods and pharaohs
Obelisks and pylons
- Obelisks symbolize the of creation, associated with the sun god Ra
- Tall, tapering monoliths topped with pyramidions, often inscribed with hieroglyphs praising the pharaoh and gods
- Pylons, massive trapezoidal gateways, mark temple entrances and symbolize the horizon
- Flagstaffs on pylons represent the god's presence and cosmic stability
Orientation to celestial bodies
- Temples often aligned with celestial events, such as solstices or the rising of specific stars
- Abu Simbel temple oriented so that sunlight illuminates inner sanctum statues on specific dates
- Karnak temple complex includes structures aligned with seasonal changes and astronomical phenomena
- Pyramid complexes oriented to cardinal directions, with specific shafts aligned to celestial bodies
Evolution of mythological art
- Egyptian mythological art evolved over millennia, reflecting changes in religious beliefs, political structures, and cultural influences
- Artistic styles and themes adapted to different historical periods while maintaining core symbolic elements
Old Kingdom vs New Kingdom
- Old Kingdom art characterized by formal, idealized representations and strict adherence to artistic canons
- New Kingdom art shows greater naturalism, dynamic compositions, and increased focus on personal piety
- Royal iconography in the Old Kingdom emphasizes the pharaoh's divine nature, while New Kingdom art depicts more human-like interactions with gods
- Funerary art evolves from primarily elite tombs in the Old Kingdom to more widespread use of the Book of the Dead in the New Kingdom
Influence of foreign cultures
- Hyksos period introduces new artistic elements from the Near East, including horse-drawn chariots and composite bows
- New Kingdom expansion leads to increased cultural exchange, influencing artistic styles and iconography
- Amarna period under Akhenaten introduces radical changes in art, focusing on the Aten sun disk and more naturalistic royal depictions
- Late Period sees revival of older artistic styles alongside new influences from Greece and Persia
Ptolemaic and Roman periods
- Ptolemaic rule introduces Hellenistic elements, blending Greek and Egyptian artistic traditions
- Emergence of new syncretic deities, such as Serapis, combining aspects of Osiris and Greek gods
- Roman period continues syncretism, with Egyptian themes adapted to Roman artistic conventions
- Popularization of Egyptian motifs throughout the Roman Empire, influencing art and architecture beyond Egypt's borders
Modern interpretations
- Ancient Egyptian mythology and symbolism continue to inspire and influence modern art and culture
- Reinterpretation of Egyptian themes reflects changing perspectives on history, spirituality, and cultural heritage
Egyptian revival art
- 19th-century fascination with Egypt leads to Egyptian revival style in architecture and decorative arts
- Art Deco movement incorporates Egyptian motifs, particularly after the discovery of Tutankhamun's tomb
- Contemporary artists reinterpret Egyptian symbols and themes through various media and styles
- Egyptian-inspired public monuments, such as obelisks and sphinxes, found in cities worldwide
Influence on contemporary symbolism
- Ancient Egyptian symbols like the ankh and Eye of Horus adopted in modern spiritual and esoteric contexts
- Egyptian-inspired imagery used in logo design and branding, evoking concepts of wisdom, mystery, and timelessness
- Tarot decks and other divinatory systems incorporate Egyptian mythological figures and symbols
- Contemporary jewelry and fashion draw inspiration from ancient Egyptian designs and motifs
Mythology in popular culture
- Egyptian mythology featured prominently in films, television shows, and video games
- Comic books and graphic novels reimagine Egyptian gods and mythological concepts in new contexts
- Museums and exhibitions continue to showcase ancient Egyptian art, inspiring new generations of artists and enthusiasts
- Digital reconstructions and virtual reality experiences allow for immersive exploration of ancient Egyptian art and architecture
Key Terms to Review (30)
Ammit: Ammit is a creature from ancient Egyptian mythology, often depicted as a composite being with the body of a lion, the head of a crocodile, and the hindquarters of a hippopotamus. Known as the 'Devourer of the Dead,' Ammit plays a crucial role in the afterlife, specifically in the judgment of souls where she consumes those deemed unworthy.
Ankh: The ankh is an ancient Egyptian symbol that represents life and immortality, often depicted as a cross with a loop at the top. This powerful symbol connects to themes of rebirth and the afterlife, reflecting the Egyptians' beliefs in eternal life and the divine protection of their gods. The ankh frequently appears in Egyptian art, symbolizing the granting of life by deities and serving as a protective emblem for the deceased.
Anubis: Anubis is the ancient Egyptian god associated with mummification and the afterlife, often depicted as a jackal or a man with a jackal's head. He plays a crucial role in the Egyptian belief system, acting as a protector of graves and a guide for souls in the journey to the afterlife. Anubis embodies themes of death, protection, and transformation, making him significant in various forms of artistic expression.
Atom: An atom is the basic unit of matter and the fundamental building block of all substances. It consists of a nucleus made up of protons and neutrons, surrounded by electrons in orbitals. Atoms combine in various ways to form molecules, playing a critical role in chemistry and the understanding of material properties.
Benben stone: The benben stone is a sacred object in ancient Egyptian mythology, symbolizing the primeval mound from which the god Atum created the world. It is often depicted as a pyramidal stone and represents the concept of rebirth and resurrection, as well as the sun's rays. This stone played a significant role in temple architecture and was associated with the cult of Ra, highlighting its importance in Egyptian art and religious beliefs.
Benu Bird: The Benu Bird is a mythical bird in ancient Egyptian mythology, often associated with the sun, creation, and rebirth. It is considered a symbol of resurrection and is closely linked to the concept of the phoenix, representing renewal and the cyclical nature of life. The Benu Bird is frequently depicted in art as a heron or a bird with a long neck and legs, often rising from flames or flames surrounding it.
Black for resurrection: In the context of Egyptian mythology, the term 'black for resurrection' refers to the symbolic use of black color in art and culture as a representation of life, rebirth, and fertility. This concept is deeply intertwined with the ancient Egyptians' beliefs surrounding the afterlife and the cycles of nature, where the fertile black soil of the Nile Valley contrasted sharply with the surrounding deserts, representing regeneration and the promise of new life after death.
Book of the Dead: The Book of the Dead is an ancient Egyptian funerary text consisting of a collection of spells, prayers, and incantations designed to assist the deceased in navigating the afterlife. This text, often written on papyrus and placed in tombs, reflects the profound beliefs about life, death, and the afterlife in ancient Egyptian culture, revealing layers of symbolism and mythology that were central to their worldview.
Composite view: Composite view is an artistic technique that combines multiple perspectives of a subject into a single image, often used to depict human figures and objects. This method allows for a more comprehensive representation, merging different angles and poses to convey essential aspects of the subject's identity. In the context of Egyptian mythology in art, composite view plays a crucial role in illustrating the divine nature of deities and important figures.
Cosmic order: Cosmic order refers to the ancient Egyptian belief in a harmonious and balanced universe governed by divine principles and deities. This concept is deeply intertwined with Egyptian mythology, where the stability of the cosmos was maintained through rituals, art, and the veneration of gods, particularly Ma'at, who embodied truth, justice, and cosmic balance. The idea of cosmic order reflects the Egyptians' understanding of their place within the universe and their relationship with the divine.
Djed Pillar: The djed pillar is an ancient Egyptian symbol representing stability and resurrection, often depicted as a column-like form with a broad base and a series of horizontal lines at the top. This symbol was closely associated with the god Osiris, who embodied the concepts of regeneration and life after death. The djed pillar served both religious and funerary purposes, representing the backbone of Osiris and symbolizing the hope for resurrection in the afterlife.
Eternal life: Eternal life refers to the belief in a continued existence after physical death, often associated with an afterlife or immortality. This concept is deeply rooted in various cultural and religious narratives, particularly within ancient Egyptian mythology, where it symbolizes the enduring nature of the soul and its journey in the afterlife.
Eye of Horus: The Eye of Horus is an ancient Egyptian symbol representing protection, royal power, and good health. It is depicted as an eye with a distinctive teardrop shape and is associated with the sky god Horus, who embodies kingship and power. This symbol played a crucial role in ancient Egyptian culture, reflecting themes of healing and safeguarding the deceased in their journey to the afterlife.
Field of reeds: The field of reeds, known as 'Aaru' in ancient Egyptian mythology, is a paradise where the souls of the righteous are believed to dwell after death. This mythical realm represents a reward for those who led virtuous lives, symbolizing abundance, peace, and eternal happiness. It is depicted as a lush landscape filled with green fields, abundant crops, and tranquil waters, reflecting the ideals of life and sustenance.
Frontalism: Frontalism is an artistic style characterized by the representation of figures in a frontal, or head-on, position. This approach is especially prominent in ancient art forms, where the subject appears directly facing the viewer, which is often used to convey authority and significance, particularly in the context of religious or mythological figures.
Green for fertility: Green for fertility symbolizes growth, life, and abundance, often associated with agricultural success and regeneration. In various cultures, particularly in Egyptian mythology, green is linked to the concept of fertility, representing the lushness of nature and the nurturing aspects of the earth, which are essential for sustaining life.
Hieroglyphics: Hieroglyphics is a system of writing used in ancient Egypt that combines logographic and alphabetic elements, utilizing pictorial symbols to represent objects, sounds, and ideas. This intricate script was closely tied to Egyptian culture, religion, and mythology, serving as a means of communication in sacred texts, monumental inscriptions, and everyday life.
Horus: Horus is an ancient Egyptian deity often depicted as a falcon or a man with a falcon head, symbolizing kingship, the sky, and protection. As the son of Osiris and Isis, Horus played a crucial role in Egyptian mythology, representing the divine right of kings and serving as a protector of the pharaohs. His significance extends to symbolism in art, mythology, and religious iconography.
Isis: Isis is a major goddess in ancient Egyptian mythology, revered as the goddess of motherhood, magic, and fertility. She is often depicted as a woman with a throne-shaped crown and holding an ankh, symbolizing life. As one of the most important deities, her narratives and symbolism are deeply intertwined with themes of resurrection and protection, reflecting her critical role in both religious practices and artistic representations in ancient Egypt.
Ma'at: Ma'at is an ancient Egyptian concept that embodies truth, balance, order, and justice. It represents not only a principle of cosmic order but also a moral guideline for human conduct and societal harmony. The idea of ma'at influenced the way ancient Egyptians lived their lives and how they viewed their relationship with the gods, emphasizing the importance of maintaining harmony in both the universe and human society.
Mummification: Mummification is the ancient Egyptian practice of preserving a body after death to prepare it for the afterlife. This process involved removing internal organs, drying the body with natron, and wrapping it in linen, which was believed to protect the deceased’s spirit and maintain their identity in the next world. This practice reflects deep cultural beliefs about life after death and the significance of the physical body in spiritual continuity.
Osiris: Osiris is an ancient Egyptian god associated with the afterlife, resurrection, and fertility. He is often depicted as a green-skinned figure, symbolizing rebirth, and is central to the Egyptian beliefs about the afterlife and the cycle of nature. His story, particularly his death and resurrection, embodies themes of renewal, making him a key figure in ancient Egyptian symbolism and mythology.
Pyramids: Pyramids are monumental structures built by ancient Egyptians, primarily serving as tombs for pharaohs and a means of ensuring their journey to the afterlife. Their iconic triangular shape symbolizes the connection between the earth and the heavens, representing the pharaoh's divine status and their role in the afterlife. These structures are not only architectural marvels but also rich in symbolism and significance within the context of ancient Egyptian beliefs.
Ra: Ra is the ancient Egyptian sun god, often considered one of the most important deities in Egyptian mythology. He was associated with creation, light, and life, embodying the power of the sun as it travels across the sky. His significance is reflected in art, where he is frequently depicted with a falcon head and a solar disk, symbolizing his role as the source of energy and vitality for both gods and humans.
Sarcophagus: A sarcophagus is a stone coffin, often elaborately decorated, used in ancient civilizations for burial purposes. In the context of Egyptian art and mythology, sarcophagi were typically associated with the preservation of the deceased and the belief in the afterlife, serving as a vital component in the funerary practices and artistic expressions of ancient Egypt.
Scarab: The scarab is a symbol that represents transformation, rebirth, and protection in Ancient Egyptian culture, often associated with the sun god Ra. This iconic beetle was seen as a manifestation of renewal due to its behavior of rolling dung balls, which Egyptians likened to the movement of the sun across the sky. Scarabs were frequently depicted in art and used in amulets and jewelry, making them a key symbol reflecting the spiritual beliefs and practices of ancient Egyptians.
Sphinx: The sphinx is a mythical creature with the body of a lion and the head of a human, often symbolizing strength and wisdom. In ancient Egyptian culture, it served as a guardian figure, typically placed at the entrance of temples and tombs, embodying the connection between the pharaoh's divine authority and the afterlife. The most famous example is the Great Sphinx of Giza, which reflects the significance of this creature in ancient Egyptian symbolism and mythology.
Temples: Temples are sacred structures built for worship and religious rituals, serving as a physical manifestation of a culture's beliefs and values. In ancient Egypt, temples were not only places of worship but also centers of economic and political power, dedicated to various deities and often adorned with intricate art that conveyed the myths and stories central to Egyptian mythology.
The afterlife: The afterlife refers to the existence that follows death, a belief held by many cultures and religions. In the context of Egyptian mythology, it represents a realm where souls journey after death, governed by divine judgment and often depicted in art through symbols and imagery that reflect the significance of the journey and the rewards or punishments awaiting the deceased.
Tutankhamun's Mask: Tutankhamun's Mask is a gold funerary mask of the young pharaoh Tutankhamun, which was discovered in his tomb in the Valley of the Kings in 1922. This exquisite artifact, made of gold and inlaid with precious stones, serves not only as a burial mask but also symbolizes the wealth and artistry of ancient Egyptian civilization while embodying the beliefs surrounding the afterlife and immortality.