Originally at Abu Simbel but now relocated
in 1968 owing to the construction of the Aswan High Dam
Egyptian New Kingdom,
Dynasty XIX
c. 1275-1225 BC
[Seated figures approximately 65' tall]
Ramses, one of the greatest of Egypt's
warrior-kings, is often, although not sub stantiated as such, associated as the pharaoh of
the Exodus.
The sheer size (65 feet in height) of the four seated statues of Ramses is
enough to project overwhelming power. The figures of the king's favorite wife, Nefertari,
and their children, placed beside his legs, are more like Ken and Barbie dolls in
comparison. Even the statue of Ramses' fellow god, Horus, is much smaller than the statue
of the king.
