Ancient Egyptian sculptors first fashioned block statues in the Twelfth Dynasty. Such statues show their subjects seated on the ground, with the legs drawn toward the chest and the body enveloped in a full-length cloak.
Interpretations of the meaning of block statues vary. Some Egyptologists see them as simple representations of men in repose. Others feel they have a religious meaning: they seem to show the soul emerging from a mound in the underworld at the moment of rebirth. This example depicts a man named Ay who achieved the exalted religious positions of Second Prophet of Amun and High Priest of the Goddess Mut at Thebes. His career flourished during the reign of Tutankhamun, when the statue was made. The cartouches of King Ay, Tutankhamun's successor appearing on the statue, were an attempt by an artisan to "update" the sculpture.Catalogue Description:
Near white indurated limestone block statue with double wig, ears half covered, earlobes nicked, plastic eyebrows and cosmetic lines, full-blown mouth, body completely enveloped in garment except for two fists in relief: right holding Djed pillar, left with “blood of Isis”. Cartouche of Ay on right shoulder; eight lines of inscription, running from left to right, on front of garment down to feet for the second priest of Amun, etc., Yii, son of Min-nakht and Mut-em-nebu. No back pillar. Base square in front was probably rounded in rear.
Condition: Eyebrows eyes and nose damaged; also base. Break on upper left arm; small chips missing. Back of base lost.
