Egyptian

Akhenaten, Nefertiti and Three Daughters c. 1353-35 BC

This sunken relief carving, from Egypt's New Kingdom period, shows Akhenaten, Nefertiti and their three daughters under the rays of the sun god. It is an intimate scene of the family worshiping together. Both parents enjoy holding and intereacting with their children, implying a sense of balance and respect between the genders. Additionally, Nefertiti was called "the most beautiful woman in the world," another representation of her significance and her power. As the family is interacting so intimately with one another, the viewer becomes aware of how they seem to be depicted more naturalistically, individualistically, and informally than in other eras. Additionally, the fact that their children are girls, and are still included in the art, implies a sense of disregard for male superiority.