Why did the ancient Egyptians create such elaborate temples,tombs, coffins, and funerary objects? In this episode of AP Art History in 15, Mr. Bruns explores how purpose, intended audience, and patronage shaped Ancient Egyptian art and art making.
We’ll examine two essential AP Art History works:
#21. Mortuary Temple ofHatshepsut — Discover how architecture, religious imagery, and royal representation helped Hatshepsut communicate her authority, divine connections, and role as pharaoh.
#23. Tutankhamun’s Tomb,Innermost Coffin — Explore why gold, idealized royal imagery, and traditional symbols of kingship were so important in Egyptian funerary art and beliefs about the afterlife.
Along the way, we’ll explore the ka, Egyptianfunerary beliefs, royal patronage, divine kingship, the purpose of mortuary complexes, and why materials and imagery matter.
AP Art History Takeaway
When studying Egyptian art, remember:
PURPOSE — Why was it made?
AUDIENCE — Who was it made for?
PATRON — Who commissioned it?
Then ask the most important AP question:
How did those factors affect the way the artwork wasmade?
