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Among the other changes credited with the reign of Akhenaten is the amazing artistic
revolution that took place. The art prior to Akhenaten portrayed the royalty in a very idealistic form having perfect physiques.
The artwork during the reign of Akhenaten was anything but idealistic.
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| Akhenaten offering gifts to Aten. |
In most representations of the King, Akhenaten is shown to have large hips and belly, elongated face and
neck and full lips. In the early years of Akhenaten’s reign his family members are often represented in much the similar
fashion. This changed towards the end of his reign as each individual took on unique characteristics. The very fact that Akhenaten’s
family was even represented was a divergence from past art. (Cohen 45)
| This is characteristic of the Amarna style. |
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| Nefertiti is shown with an elongated head, large belly and thighs |
There are many representations of tender moments between the king and his family. These personal moments
of a royal family are not seen during any other time of Egyptian history.
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| This scene depicts Akhenaten spending time with his family. |
There is also other evidence of evolution from the start of Akhenaten’s reign to the end. Nefertiti
and Akhenaten are shown aged and noticeably heavier towards the end of the period.
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| The art has noticeably changed by the end of Akhenaten's reign. |
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