The artwork that was the product of the remarkable Ancient Egyptian culture was as beautiful as it was powerful. As we delve into the history of the Egyptian paintings and relief sculptures we begin to discover that there are many different styles commonly used. Some of the characteristics shown were a twisted perspective, frontalism, and a twisted poses these representations were very important to the Egyptian culture.
Ancient Egypt lasted from about 3000 B.C. to about 1000 B.C. Art symbolized Egyptian beliefs and daily life. Today in western culture, we generally consider art a form of self-expression. For the ancient Egyptians however, it was mostly religious. The Egyptians took art very serious and strict. It followed very specific rules. Egyptians believed that imperfect art (art that did not adhere to the strict rules) upset the gods. When examining two-dimensional ancient Egyptian are, such as paintings and relief sculptures, it is very important not to make interpretations about what is depicted. It requires some background knowledge in order for correct interpretation. It is important to keep in mind the actual purpose of Egyptian art and how they kept their style so consistent.
The cannon was a standardized set of rules that ancient Egyptian artist used in proportioning art work. It was developed during the Old Kingdom. It was used thought Pharaonic Egypt. The canon law, to which Egyptian artist were mandated to regularize dimensions and scale, was followed. According to the law, the human body (as depicted in their art) must be 18 units length to the hair lines and just under 19 to the top of the head. The bellybutton should be at 11 unit’s length. This is beginning the measurement from the soles of the feet. During this period was literally MANDATED for artist to follow these rules. As known to artists, a canon is the basic model or rule that