Egyptian sculpture

EGYPTIAN SCULPTURE

QOH ACP Te reer METHODS OF THE ARTIST

STATUES

THE Egyptians were the most conservative of all ancient peoples, and a study of their art shows that conventions were retained long after the artist had realised that they were not necessary. It is obvious that the Egyptians first modelled the human figure in clay, for many of the conventions of clay modelling continued throughout the Pharaonic period, though the material of which the statue was made had none of the characteristics of clay.

In modelling a large standing figure in clay it is necessary to support the body in such a manner that the weight of clay will not crush the legs or break them off at the ankles. In a modern studio, a framework is erected, of rigid iron tubes, over which the clay is laid in masses and then modelled ; the weight is thus borne by the framework, and there is no danger of collapse. There are also various other devices for the purpose which were used at different periods and in different countries. Thus, a tree-trunk or a pillar against which the figure leans; long draperies reaching to the ground, either as the robes of the figure, or merely falling down on one side, as in some Greek statues; or some other more or less obvious or clumsy method by which the superincumbent weight is supported. The most clumsy method

is seen in some equestrian statues, where a tree-trunk rises 3 I