Late New Kingdom
Nineteenth and Twentieth Dynasty
(ca. 1295-1069 B.C.)

The Late New Kingdom, often called the Ramesside period, was dominated by RamesesII, known in history as Rameses the Great. The
Bust of Standing statue of Rameses II, shows him with traditional attributes of Egyptian royalty. The combined crowns of Upper and Lower Egypt symbolized the pharaoh's control over the entire country. On his brow is the uraeus, the cobra snake ready to strike any who oppose him. His false beard, held in place by straps along the chin, is a type worn only by the pharaoh. The crook and the flail in his crossed hands are emblems of the god Osiris, who, in Egyptian myth, was the first pharaoh of Egypt, who became the ruler of the Underworld.

Rameses's long reign, military prowess, and impressive building program were legendary for his successors, many of whom also called themselves Rameses.
But these later pharaohs had to contend with attempted invasions, a weakening economy, and dynastic family strife. The New Kingdom finally came to an end with Rameses XI.

Compiled by Edna R. Russmann and Deborah Schwartz
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Bust of Standing Statue of Rameses II.
Elephantine Island.
New Kingdom, Nineteenth Dynasty,
reign of Rameses II, (ca. 1279-1213 B.C.)
Pink Granite, 56 inches.

[This message was edited by Inda on Monday March 8th, 2004 at 06:20 PM.]

Sketch of a Nursing Woman in Pavilion
Probably from Thebes, Deir el Medina
New Kingdom, 19th or 20th Dynasty
(ca. 1295-1069 B.C.)
Limestone, painted.

[This message was edited by Inda on Monday March 8th, 2004 at 06:22 PM.]

Thank you again for sharing this fabulous material. I adore the nursing mother.
The Egyptians had such wonderful craftmanship.

Gisele

I like this piece as well. Apparently a mother and the new bagy lived in a special structure erected solely for the purpose where the new mother and baby could bond and become aquainted. Just the nurse or servant was permitted; you can see the servant at the bottom right. She was there to pamper the new mother. This is an extraordinary piece.

Love, Inda

This is just beautiful. That image of the nursing mom looks so up to date. I love it.

Sue

The image of the nursing mother is really beautiful. Like Sue said, it looks as if it was created today. Thank you for the text. It is very interesting.

Vicky