Laden Donkeys and Ploughing, Tomb of Djar (c.2060 – c.2010 BC) by Ancient Egypt

Laden Donkeys and Ploughing, Tomb of Djar - Ancient Egypt - c.2060 - c.2010 BC

Artwork Information

TitleLaden Donkeys and Ploughing, Tomb of Djar
ArtistAncient Egypt
Datec.2060 - c.2010 BC
Art MovementMiddle Kingdom

About Laden Donkeys and Ploughing, Tomb of Djar

The artwork “Laden Donkeys and Ploughing, Tomb of Djar” is an ancient Egyptian genre painting that dates back to circa 2060 – 2010 BC during the Middle Kingdom period. This genre painting exemplifies the art movement of that era, depicting everyday life and work in Egypt, providing a window into the agricultural practices of the time.

In the artwork, we see a sequence of activities illustrated in a distinctively stylized manner typical of ancient Egyptian art. On the left side, there are several donkeys, each carrying panniers or loads on their backs, painted in a light blue color. The donkeys are shown in profile, adhering to the Egyptian convention of representation. Following the depiction of these burdened donkeys, there is a scene of two men engaged in agricultural labor. The first man appears to be sowing seeds, scattering them with a throw of his hand, while the second man, who is larger and thus probably of higher status, holds a plow being pulled by a cow. The cow is depicted in a lighter brown and white coloring, with a large red yoke around its neck to aid in the plowing process. The figures and animals are presented in a stylized form with the use of simplistic lines and bright colors to define their shapes and important features, characteristic of Egyptian tomb decoration meant to ensure a prosperous afterlife for the deceased. The background is a plain light beige, possibly representing desert sand, which serves as a neutral backdrop that highlights the vibrancy of the figures.

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