Pharaoh Akhenaton Holding Nefertiti's Hand Small Egyptian Desk Statue on Metal Stand

Lover's hands of Akhenaton and Nefertiti
Egypt, the New Kingdom, 18th Dynasty (approx. 1350 BC)

Pharaoh Amenhotep IV, the father of Tutankhamen, was significantly less interested in military affairs compared to his predecessors. Instead, he devoted his attention to religion and the arts. He adopted the name Akhenaton, which translates to “Aton wished it,” referring to the sun god, their sole deity. However, the introduction of monotheism faced widespread resistance from both the priests and the general populace. Despite this resistance, the progressive pharaoh managed to liberate the arts from the priests’ restrictive guidelines. Consequently, gods and pharaohs could now be depicted in poses and scenes from everyday life. This shift towards naturalism in Egyptian art gave rise to the Amarna style, named after the city of Tellel-Amarna, which was constructed on the site of the capital founded by Akhenaten, Akhematen.

In this sculpture, we witness the emergence of this new naturalism in Egyptian art. The two hands belong to the pharaoh Akhenaten and his queen, Nefertiti. They tenderly grasp each other, conveying eternal love.

• Egyptian reproduction is made from resin, black metal base.
• Measures: 4 in H x 3.5 in W x 3 in D. Weighs 0.4 lbs. PN EG06
• Part of the Parastone Mouseion Collection of museum replicas.