The Artistic Influence on the Title of Hr nb from the Ancient Egyptian Period till the Modern Period

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Tourist Guidance Department, Faculty of Tourism & Hotels, Alexandria University

2 High Institute of Tourism and Hotels in Alexandria (EGOTH)

3 Tourist Guidance Department, High Institute of Tourism and Hotels in Alexandria (EGOTH)

Abstract

Ancient Egyptian art is abundant with numerous artworks that highlight the eradication of symbols of evil as a manifestation of religious heritage, commemorating Horus's victory - represented by the ruler - over Seth, represented by the enemies - through the symbolic meaning of the title Hr nb, "Horus who defeated Seth” - “the triumphant Horus”. Rulers employed this artistic style as a form of political propaganda, portraying themselves as triumphant warriors overcoming symbols of evil. This style persisted during the Graeco - Roman period to reinforce the legitimacy of the rule of the Ptolemaic kings and Roman emperors.
Since the Ptolemaic Period, soldiers were considered a distinguished class, and this influenced Coptic artists. They combined the scene of stabbing with the image of a knight or warrior, resulting in depictions of some martyrs and saints as knights who pierce symbols of evil. These depictions became known as the "Saint Knight" images, where the saints are shown in heroic, warrior-like forms, triumphing over evil in a symbolic battle. Coptic art models are considered the original source from which other global arts drew inspiration for the spirit of this theme, if not the theme itself. On another note, in Islamic art, some artists addressed themes similar to these Coptic subjects. There is a significant difference in how these themes are approached in Islamic art.

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Minia Journal of Tourism and Hospitality Research MJTHR
Volume 18, Issue 2
December 2024
Pages 192-233

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