As far back as 5,000 years ago Egypt had introduced a style that, with surprisingly little
change, continued for almost 3,000 years. Rules for the making of statues were rigidly
prescribed, as were social and religious customs. Religion was the dominant force in life on Earth and it required certain preparations for the life beyond. Sculpture was entirely associated with the needs of religion and the gods or with the earthly rulers who were regarded as their representatives.
Of the many treasures excavated in Egypt the limestone head of Queen Nofretete is one of the finest. The breath of life seems to animate the face. The painted, subtly modeled surface and graceful flow of neck and features create a sense of startling realism.
