Techniques of the Egyptian Artist

The forms and techniques of Egyptian art are dictated by the religious and magical purpose for which it was undertaken. The idea of "art for art's sake" was not paramount in the approach of the Egyptian artist. The great pyramids were raised to protect the souls of the Pharaohs from their enemies. Tools used to build the pyramids were simple: wooden mallets, stone, drills, chisels, flint knives, wooden rulers, plumb lines, and ramps. The pyramids were huge complexes that contained not only the sarcophagi of the kings, but the pits for the funerary barge, temples, and many false chambers to confuse would-be thieves. Pharaohs would be buried in the tombs, as well as other members of the royal family. All the belongings the pharaoh might need would be buried with him: food, clothing, tools, furniture and, jewelry.…