Relief Of Akhty-hotep, Egypt Ca. 2650-2600 BC. Limestone, Brooklyn Museum ,New York, USA Editorial Image

Relief of Akhty-hotep, Egypt ca. 2650-2600 BC. Limestone, Brooklyn Museum ,New York, USA. This sculpture in relief depicts Akhtyhotep, an Old Kingdom official, in a simple wrapped kilt and a short, curly wig. The tall walking stick and paddle-like baton indicate his official status. Akhty-hotep’s name appears in hieroglyphs in front of his face and also, partially preserved, above him to the left. It was believed that, in addition to tomb statues, images like this one could house the dead owner’s spirit. The high, bold carving typifies relief of the early Old Kingdom.