Fragmentary Statue of a Figure with Kyphosis

Despite the lack of true portraiture and the apparent tendency toward a strict “ideal” in Egyptian art, the realistic depiction of this figure with kyphosis, or a severe curvature of the spine, attests to the artist’s attention to detail. The damaged figurine was originally covered with gesso and painted, further enhancing its lifelike appearance.

The attitude towards disability and atypical bodies in Egyptian society is evident in the Ramesside wisdom text of Amenemope (1292–1075 b.c.e.), which instructs the reader: “Do not laugh at a blind man, ridicule a dwarf, or impede the disabled!”