04/05/2024
Statue of the Royal Acquaintances Memi and Sabu
This statue evokes the intimacy of Memi and his companion, Sabu, although she is set somewhat apart by her oblique gaze.
Until recently, the flowering of nonroyal statuary was believed to have occurred only in the 4th and 6th Dynasties. Recent studies indicate, however, that many of these nonroyal statues, including Memi and Sabu, are better dated to the 4th Dynasty, contemporary with the great royal statuary programs. The early date for Memi and Sabu is based both on her coiffure and on the reciprocated embrace.
Old Kingdom, 4th Dynasty, ca. 2575-2465 BC. Painted limestone. From Western Cemetery, Giza. Painted limestone. Now in the Metropolitan Museum of Art. 48.111
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