A moment of frozen tenderness in stone: the unfinished statue of Akhenaten and his daughter
This magnificent limestone statue, housed in the Egyptian Museum, captures a moment of tenderness between King Akhenaten and his daughter, who may have been Merit-Aten. Discovered in a sculpture workshop in Amarna, it is 40 cm high and is a testament to high artistic quality.
The king is seen sitting in a backless chair, wearing a short-sleeved robe and a blue crown that he usually wears on festive occasions. His daughter sits lovingly on his lap, turning her head affectionately towards her father, who is inclined to kiss her. This depiction deviates from the traditional norms of ancient Egyptian art; it embodies simplicity and realism, offering an intimate look at palace life.
Akhenaten is portrayed here humanely; he is not only a pharaoh but also a father who shares a sincere moment of love with his child. It is the embodiment of purity and true love that transcends royal protocols and traditions.
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