The artwork “Kopf Der Dame Taui” is an ancient Egyptian portrait dating back to around 1390 BC during the New Kingdom period. It is part of the Tomb of Nakht and is indicative of the art and aesthetic principles from that era. This artwork serves as a representation of the portraiture genre found in the tomb’s decorations, dated approximately 1400-1300 BC.
The painting depicts a profile view of a woman’s head, characterized by the iconic, highly stylized elements typical of Egyptian art from the New Kingdom. She has a slender neck and an elongated face with prominent, almond-shaped eyes that gaze into the distance. Her eyebrow is depicted in a refined, arching line, and her cosmetic line follows suit, emphasizing the eye’s shape. The woman’s straight nose and closed mouth with a hint of a smile add to her serene and composed demeanor.
She is adorned with an elaborate headdress that appears to have a layered structure. The headdress features decorative patterns and hangs down behind the ears, partially covering what seems to be carefully styled black hair that frames her face. Below her neck, you can see a glimpse of her garment, which has a checkered pattern indicating the complexities of textile design during the New Kingdom.
The use of colors is limited but striking, with a distinct contrast between the rich black of her hair and the warm golden tone of her skin. The use of outline is also evident, providing clear and precise delineation of her facial features and the edges of the headdress. Overall, the portrait exudes a sense of timeless elegance and an adherence to the artistic conventions prevalent during the height of ancient Egyptian civilization.
