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Reserve Head of a Man. Giza; Fourth Dynasty, probably reign of Khufu (ca.
2551–2528 B.C.E.). Limestone; H. 10 7/8 in. (27.7
cm). Kunsthistorisches Museum, Ägyptische–Orientalische
Sammlung, Vienna (ÄS 7787).
This head exhibits the two most widespread forms of intentional damage inflicted on reserve heads: the removal of the ears and the gouging of a groove down the back of the head. This intentional mutilation and the pitting of the surface do not detract from the great beauty of the piece. Although similarities exist among some reserve heads, each one is unique. This individuality suggests that they were intended to resemble the owner and are thus among the earliest portraits ever made.
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