Striding Figure, ca. 2575–2465 B.C., Old Kingdom

This powerful statue is remarkable for its forceful facial features and well-defined musculature. Traces of pigment suggest that the figure once had a painted moustache and wore a broad collar.

Recent research has identified the work as likely originating from a tomb at El Kab, a southern site that may date to the early Fourth Dynasty. Its style, distinct from Old Kingdom examples at Saqqara and Giza, appears to represent a regional artistic tradition.

Object Details

Title: Striding Figure
Period: Old Kingdom
Dynasty: 4
Date: ca. 2575–2465 B.C.
Geography: Egypt; possibly from Southern Upper Egypt, Elkab
Medium: Quartzite, with paint
Dimensions: H. 89.5 cm (35 1/4 in.)
Credit Line: Harris Brisbane Dick Fund, 1962
Accession Number: 62.20 (Met Museum)