An artwork on Galleree from Cleveland Museum of Art.
About the artwork
Nome Gods Bearing Offeringsc. 1391–1353 BCE
These blocks from a temple wall show four figures identified as nomes, or provinces, of ancient Egypt. Carrying trays heaped with offerings and leading sacrificial animals, they personify the bounty of the land that they bring to the god who stood in the upper register, facing a figure of the king, Amenhotep III. These blocks may be from Amenhotep III's temple, dedicated to the god Horus.
Another block from the same temple wall was acquired 15 years later by the museum.
painted limestone
Overall: 66 x 133 cm (26 x 52 3/8 in.)
John L. Severance Fund
In the soft glow of the Egyptian sun, the weathered limestone blocks speak with a gentleness that transcends time. Carved with care, their surfaces whisper the stories of a world long past. Four figures emerge from the stone, their forms steady and proud. They are nomes—the very essence of ancient Egyptian provinces, each one a guardian of land and bountiful harvest.
With hands outstretched, these figures cradle trays laden with offerings, their contents teetering delicately, ready to be presented. The aroma of fresh bread, the glimmering sheen of fine oils, and the vibrant hues of fruits—all offerings that symbolize the richness of the earth. Alongside them, sacrificial animals trot, their presence a reminder of the deep connection between the people and their gods, a bond forged in reverence and tradition.
Above these generous figures, an aura of divinity reigns. A solitary god stands in quiet majesty, overseeing the scene with deep wisdom etched into his likeness. This presence, believed to be Horus, embodies the watchful protection over the lands, guiding the hopes and dreams of those who labor below.
In this sacred narrative, there is also a glimpse of the king. Amenhotep III, a figure of strength and glory, stands in the upper register—an emblem of stability and power. His connection to the divine is palpable; he is both the earthly ruler and the chosen vessel for the gods’ blessings.
Some believe that these blocks once lined the walls of Amenhotep III’s temple, a grand testament to devotion and prosperity. As they stand now, partly worn by the passage of millennia, they evoke a peaceful reverence, inviting us to ponder the simplicity of their purpose: to celebrate life’s offerings and acknowledge the divine that oversees it all.
About the artist
Creating transformative experiences through art “for the benefit of all the people forever.”The Cleveland Museum of Art is renowned for the quality and breadth of its collection, which includes more than 66,500 artworks and spans 6,000 years of achievement in the arts. The artworks shared on this platform are sourced from the museum's Open Access data under the CC0 license. No endorsement is implied.Address: 11150 East Boulevard, Cleveland, OH, USA 44106
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