The Art of Ancient Egypt | Publications for Educators | Explore & Learn

Scale

Size indicates relative importance. Images of the king are often much larger than life to symbolize the ruler's superhuman powers. In wall reliefs and paintings wives and family members, servants and entertainers, animals, trees, and architectural details are usually shown in smaller scale than the figures of the king, high official, or tomb owner.

The wife of the deceased (a lady-in-waiting named Roy) and her three daughters (all chantresses of Amun); the little man is a priestly servant. Their sizes indicate their relative importance. (Scene from tomb 75 at Western Thebes)

Nikare and his family
Here the granary official Nikare is shown dramatically larger than his wife and daughter because the statue was commissioned for his tomb. Hence, he is the most important figure in the trio.

Magical stela (detail)
Because the god Horus is crucial in imbuing this stela with magical powers, his image is much larger than those of the other three deities.

Photograph Credits