by Ancient Egyptian (Unknown), -1470
This block statue from around 1470 BC shows Senenmut, one of ancient Egypt's most powerful officials, cradling the young Princess Neferure on his lap. Their bodies merge into a compact cubic form, with only Senenmut's face, arms, and the child's head emerging. The simplified geometry is both intimate and monumental.
Senenmut served Queen Hatshepsut as royal steward, architect, and tutor to her daughter Neferure. He designed Hatshepsut's mortuary temple at Deir el-Bahri, one of ancient Egypt's most innovative buildings. His relationship with the queen has fueled centuries of speculation: he held more titles and privileges than any other commoner in her court.
Block statues like this originated in the Middle Kingdom and remained popular for over a thousand years. They were placed in temples as eternal prayers to the gods. The intimacy of holding a royal child was an extraordinary privilege, suggesting Senenmut's uniquely close bond with the ruling family.

Ancient Egyptian (Unknown), 401
Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago

Ancient Egyptian (Unknown), -1070
The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York
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