Egyptian Stone Relief of Man and Wife

About the Item

This painted limestone relief is an exquisite example of New Kingdom relief carving from the apogee of Egyptian artistic production. Carved in raised relief - a labour-intensive technique indicative of an elite commission - the scene portrays a high-ranking official, elegantly adorned with a broad collar and bag wig. Accompanied by his wife, whose hand rests tenderly on his shoulder in an expression of love and partnership, it is a poignant survivor from antiquity. The refined modelling - drilled nostrils, softly defined jawline, and graceful cosmetic lines - display the skill of the sculptor and echo the portraiture seen under the reigns of Hatshepsut and Thutmose III, among Egypt’s most celebrated rulers. This scene would have originally been part of a larger composition in the private tombs of the Theban necropolis - widely regarded as the location of the finest reliefs of the 18th Dynasty. Displayed on its original mid-20th century base, this work is a stunning fragment, its shallow carving and muted ochre tones coming alive with direct sunlight or when spotlit. Provenance: 1960s French private collection [based on notarised statement, surface condition, restorations and extant wooden base]. Subsequently art market, Montpellier, France. Robert Shaw antiques, acquired from the above on 11th February 2020. Please note that this item is a work of art and is thus exempt from US reciprocal tariffs. ArtAncient are dealers in rare wonders from the formation of the Solar System to late antiquity, discovering, studying and placing objects in extraordinary collections. Do not hesitate to contact us for more details on this piece.

Dimensions:
Height: 11.03 in (28.02 cm)Width: 10.44 in (26.52 cm)Depth: 1.58 in (4.02 cm)
Style:
Egyptian (Of the Period)
Materials and Techniques:
Limestone,Carved,Hand-Carved,Painted
Place of Origin:
Egypt
Period:
15th Century and Earlier
Date of Manufacture:
First Half of Dynasty 18, circa 1525 BC
Condition:
Wear consistent with age and use.
Seller Location:
London, GB
Reference Number:
Seller: 426891stDibs: LU1052246011892