Senmut
and Neferure
Thebes (approx. 1475 B.C)
This beautiful Egyptian statue dates back to the early 18th Dynasty, when
Hatshepsut and her stepson Thutmosis III ruled the Egyptian Empire.
The legendary Senmut was Hatshepsut's highest public official, confidant and
perhaps also lover. He had served at court from the time her husband and
half-brother Thutmosis II was still alive. Hatshepsut did not bear a son for her
husband and so the throne went to one of the Pharaoh's extramarital sons.
After her husband's death, Hatshepsut was appointed as regent for the young
Thutmosis III. Later on, she was also awarded the divine title of Pharaoh.
Hatshepsut and Thutmosis II did have a daughter together, Princess
Neferura. Senmut looked after her. The two must have been very close as Senmut
had himself portrayed no less than seven times by various sculptors with the
princess in his lap. This statue is viewed as one of the most beautiful.
On the front of the statue, Senmut had himself described as the princess'
principal mentor and protector. The right-hand side of the base states that the
sculpture is dedicated to the divine Hatshepsut.
The left-hand side describes the god Amun by means of his seven most important
characteristics. It is probable that the statue was located in the Amun District
of the temple complex at Karnak.
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Egyptian Statues here
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