What do you see going on in this work of art? Is there a story depicted?

This is the third statue of a set that depicts the growth and political progression of Metjetji, an official in Egyptian culture. This version of him uses the most expensive materials of the set with stone eyes and copper inlay around them, representing and honoring the peak of his career as it culminated in his position as senior official. It was placed in his tomb in celebration of his life.

What different visual elements (ie: line, color, light, proportions, scale, composition, media type etc.) do you notice, and how do they help you make sense of the artwork?

The statue has a slightly exaggerated head and noticeably longer feet than what is natural. It was a representation of the style at the time, and highlight the subject’s perception (big head/eyes) and skill (long fingers).

What choices do you think the museum made about the object’s display?

They decided to display this third iteration separate from the younger sculptures, likely to highlight the departure between them in style and meaning. This could also be due to a difference in information, as the two statues together had connected descriptions, while this third and final one had a more comprehensive analysis.

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