Comparing the two sculptures "The royal Acquaintances Memi and Sabu" with "Statue of Gudea" . I want to begin first with the most obvious differences as outlined by the specifications between the two. Before I do that however, I think it's important to address the way I reference them as opposed to their somewhat lengthy titles. From this point forward unless otherwise mentioned, I'll refer to each as either "Royal" or "Gudea".
"Royal" Measures in at H24.7/16" X W9.5/8" X D 6" and "Gudea" H173/8" X 81/2 X 11 5/8" respectfully. The estimated date of "Royal" is circa 2575-2465 B.C Old Kingdom period, and "Gudea" is circa 2090 B.C. or the Neo-Sumerian era. "Royal" is the older of the two which may account for it's larger size. Both sculptures …show more content…
It appears both sculptures represent the highest in aristocratic culture of the era. We know sculptures weren't even considered for the lower class of peoples let alone the slaves of the day. The "Royal" is a couple with their arms around each other, indicating a bond between them either by blood, marriage or in some cases both. "Gudea" sits alone in quiet contemplation, hands crossed as though he may be praying or it could be the preferred posture of Royalty for the period. Text of some sort adorn his lap. Perhaps scripture or perhaps rules. Possibly virtuous declarations for his subjects to be reminded of who they are and his incredible power over them. Whatever it is, there's a statement being made. Similarly, the "Royals" are making a statement. They're unified and youthful, free of defects and very well kept. Simple in both dress and appearance. Not very complex or flashy. Comparing the two sculptures one has to acknowledge that both appear to represent power. The most likely intended effect both sculptures have is to reinforce in the minds of their adoring subjects and potential adversary's how powerful they are. I mean how many people from this era were powerful enough to have sculptures of them to begin with? How they elected to convey the image of power and royalty regarding their attire is another matter. The "Royals" aren't flashy or wearing jewelry while "Gudea" has tapestry, head gear or crown, scriptures and potentially gems or beads adorning the head gear. Imagine the location of these sculptures probably served as constant reminders to the masses of their ever presence and
"Royal" Measures in at H24.7/16" X W9.5/8" X D 6" and "Gudea" H173/8" X 81/2 X 11 5/8" respectfully. The estimated date of "Royal" is circa 2575-2465 B.C Old Kingdom period, and "Gudea" is circa 2090 B.C. or the Neo-Sumerian era. "Royal" is the older of the two which may account for it's larger size. Both sculptures …show more content…
It appears both sculptures represent the highest in aristocratic culture of the era. We know sculptures weren't even considered for the lower class of peoples let alone the slaves of the day. The "Royal" is a couple with their arms around each other, indicating a bond between them either by blood, marriage or in some cases both. "Gudea" sits alone in quiet contemplation, hands crossed as though he may be praying or it could be the preferred posture of Royalty for the period. Text of some sort adorn his lap. Perhaps scripture or perhaps rules. Possibly virtuous declarations for his subjects to be reminded of who they are and his incredible power over them. Whatever it is, there's a statement being made. Similarly, the "Royals" are making a statement. They're unified and youthful, free of defects and very well kept. Simple in both dress and appearance. Not very complex or flashy. Comparing the two sculptures one has to acknowledge that both appear to represent power. The most likely intended effect both sculptures have is to reinforce in the minds of their adoring subjects and potential adversary's how powerful they are. I mean how many people from this era were powerful enough to have sculptures of them to begin with? How they elected to convey the image of power and royalty regarding their attire is another matter. The "Royals" aren't flashy or wearing jewelry while "Gudea" has tapestry, head gear or crown, scriptures and potentially gems or beads adorning the head gear. Imagine the location of these sculptures probably served as constant reminders to the masses of their ever presence and