Description

This fragment is the upper half of a seated scribe statue. Though the scribe's own name is lost, he bears two cartouches on his right shoulder that name his king as Amenhotep II of the Eighteenth Dynasty.

Though somewhat less than half life-size, and damaged, the statue manages to convey information about its subject. The slight curve in the back and bent neck tells us that he was seated, cross-legged, and ready to take dictation or to read. His firm set mouth and wide-open, slightly upraised eyes, suggest concentration, intelligence, and patience. His plain wig and large ears hint at the influence of Middle Kingdom scribe statues. The three rolls of fat on his chest were the iconography of prosperity; they suggest that he was past his youth, enjoying a prosperous maturity, and entering honoured old age. The material and fine workmanship attest that this man was valued by his king and his neighbours.

Statues like this were placed in the outer courts of temples, where visitors could ask him to intercede with the gods for them. In return, the suppliant would leave say the scribe's name aloud and pour water into hands.  Offerings of good and beer might be left for the k3 of the deceased.