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

Depicting the Multiple Powers of the Gods

Egyptian gods are depicted frequently as humans with animal heads and sometimes completely as animals. This combination of imagery was perfectly natural to the Egyptians because they believed no single image could fully represent the many powers of the gods. The Egyptians did not believe that the gods were actually animals or human-animal combinations. Instead, the use of animal elements reflects an attempt to visualize the particular characteristics of the deity. The human body indicated that no ordinary animal is depicted, and the animal head symbolized the superhuman endowments of the god.

Pectoral of Princess Sithathoryunet
The falcon that soars high in the sky is the symbol of Horus, the cosmic sky god. He embodies the king’s divine powers and symbolizes divine kingship. Horus falcons flank the king’s name in the cartouche. Each holds in one talon the hieroglyph for "dominion", thus sanctioning the king’s powers.

West wall from a chapel built by Sety I for his father, Ramesses I
Horus is depicted here in human form with a falcon head as the son of Osiris and Isis. He and Isis stand before the cult image of Osiris and receive offerings from the two kings. Isis always appears in human form.

Akhenaten sacrificing a duck
Akhenaten holds a sacrificial duck up toward Aten, the solar disk. He believes that Aten, symbolizing the light of the sun, is the sole divine power and the sustainer of all creation. Aten is portrayed as a solar disk with rays ending in small human hands, some of which are shown holding ankhs toward the king and his family. Akhenaten’s god was never portrayed in completely human or animal form.

Gods and goddesses are depicted wearing spectacular headdresses, the particular styles of which identify them and signify power and status.

Photograph Credits