Wheat Threshing (c.1422 – c.1411 BC) by Ancient Egypt

Wheat Threshing - Ancient Egypt - c.1422 - c.1411 BC

Artwork Information

TitleWheat Threshing
ArtistAncient Egypt
Datec.1422 - c.1411 BC
Art MovementNew Kingdom

About Wheat Threshing

The artwork titled “Wheat Threshing” is an ancient Egyptian genre painting dating back to circa 1422 – 1411 BC during the New Kingdom period. It is part of a series found in the Tomb of Menna, which dates from circa 1422-1390 BC. This work is indicative of the genre paintings of that time which depicted scenes from daily life.

The painting portrays a vibrant agricultural scene; it features three men in the process of threshing wheat, a fundamental activity in ancient Egypt’s agrarian society. On the left, a man can be seen driving a pair of oxen that are trampling the wheat, which was a method to separate the grain from the chaff. He holds a long stick, possibly used as a goad. The oxen appear calm and are elaborately decorated with tufts on their tails and between their horns.

Behind the oxen, another man is actively engaged in the task, using a tool to beat the wheat, further aiding the separation process. The sense of motion is conveyed through the depiction of wheat being scattered around by the oxen and the man’s actions.

The final figure on the right stands erect, also holding a tool, possibly waiting his turn to contribute or overseeing the process to ensure its efficiency. Each individual is rendered in the stylized manner characteristic of Egyptian art, with the profile view being predominantly used for the human figures.

The usage of color is relatively simple yet effective—earthy tones dominate the scene, with the rich browns of the oxen and the golden hues of the wheat creating a harmonious palette that reflects the natural environment of Egypt. The artwork captures the essence of everyday life and the importance of agriculture, documenting a moment in time in Egypt’s storied history.

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