Great Sphinx of Tanis

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Great Sphinx of Tanis is one of the most notable monuments of ancient Egypt, despite being less famous than its counterpart, the Great Sphinx of Giza. Unlike the Giza Sphinx, which is carved directly from bedrock and is part of a larger funerary complex, the Sphinx of Tanis was sculpted from a single block of stone and later transported to its current location. This article delves into the history, discovery, and significance of the Great Sphinx of Tanis, shedding light on its unique aspects within Egyptian art and archaeology.

History

The Great Sphinx of Tanis dates back to the New Kingdom of Egypt, around the time of the 18th to 20th dynasties (circa 1550-1070 BCE). It is believed to have been originally commissioned by one of the Pharaohs of the New Kingdom, possibly Ramesses II, given the stylistic similarities to other statues attributed to his reign. However, the exact origins and purpose of the Sphinx remain a subject of debate among Egyptologists.

Discovery

The Sphinx of Tanis was discovered in the 1820s by Auguste Mariette, a French archaeologist, in the ruins of the ancient city of Tanis, the capital of Egypt during the 21st and 22nd dynasties. Tanis is located in the northeastern Nile Delta, and it became an important archaeological site following the discovery of the Sphinx and other significant artifacts. The Sphinx was found buried beneath the sand, which had preserved its features from the wear of time and the elements.

Description

The Great Sphinx of Tanis is made from granite, a material that has allowed it to withstand the ravages of time. It measures approximately 4 meters in height and 8 meters in length, making it much smaller than the Great Sphinx of Giza. The face of the Sphinx of Tanis is believed to bear the likeness of Pharaoh Ramesses II, characterized by the nemes headcloth, a royal beard, and a uraeus (cobra) symbolizing kingship on its forehead.

Significance

The Sphinx of Tanis is a significant artifact for several reasons. Firstly, it provides insight into the artistic and religious practices of the New Kingdom period. The choice of Ramesses II's likeness for the Sphinx suggests the Pharaoh's desire for divinity and eternal protection, themes common in Egyptian mythology. Secondly, its discovery in Tanis highlights the city's importance as a political and religious center during the Third Intermediate Period of Egypt. Lastly, the Sphinx of Tanis contributes to our understanding of Egyptian sculpture and the techniques used in carving large stone monuments.

Current Location

Today, the Great Sphinx of Tanis is housed in the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, where it continues to be a subject of study and admiration. Its relocation from Tanis to Cairo has allowed for its preservation and accessibility to both scholars and the public, ensuring that this piece of ancient Egyptian heritage remains part of the world's cultural legacy.