CANDIA-ALFONSO-RAPHAEL-Formal_Analysis_Great_Sphinx.pptx

formal analysis of the great sphinxxxxxxxx

1. Formal Analysis of The Great Sphinx of Giza Reading Visual Arts By: Alfonso Raphael G. Candia Date: September 15, 2025

2. Introduction The Great Sphinx of Giza is one of the most iconic monuments of Ancient Egypt. Believed to have been built during the reign of Pharaoh Khafre (c. 2558–2532 BCE). Represents a lion’s body with a human head – a symbol of strength, wisdom, and divine protection. A masterpiece of sculpture, blending natural and abstract forms.

3. Visual Description Medium : Carved from a single limestone bedrock. Dimensions : Approximately 73 meters long, 20 meters high. Form : Reclining lion’s body with a human head wearing the royal nemes headdress. Condition : Erosion and missing nose/beard but retains monumental presence.

4. Elements of Art Line: Smooth, curved lines emphasize the reclining pose. Shape/Form: Combination of geometric (headdress) and organic (lion’s body) shapes. Texture: Weathered limestone creates a rough, aged surface. Color: Natural beige/yellow of limestone. Space: Monument dominates its environment, facing east toward sunrise.

5. Principles of Design Balance : Symmetrical composition creates harmony and stability. Proportion : Monumental scale evokes power and divinity. Rhythm : Repeated horizontal lines on headdress and body suggest order. Emphasis : Human face draws focus as central element. Unity : Combination of human and animal forms creates symbolic wholeness.

6. Symbolism and Meaning Guardian figure, protecting the Giza Plateau and the pyramids. Represents Pharaoh as a divine ruler with strength (lion) and intellect (human). Orientation toward sunrise suggests connection to solar worship.

7. Historical and Cultural Context Likely constructed during the Old Kingdom, 4th Dynasty. Associated with Pharaoh Khafre’s pyramid complex. Part of Egypt’s religious and political propaganda, showing ruler’s divine power.

8. Conclusion The Great Sphinx is a powerful visual narrative of Ancient Egypt’s ideals. Its form, size, and symbolism demonstrate mastery of art, religion, and politics. Despite erosion, it continues to inspire awe and scholarly study worldwide.

9. References Arnold, D. (2003). The Encyclopedia of Ancient Egyptian Architecture. Princeton University Press. Lehner, M. (1997). The Complete Pyramids. Thames & Hudson. Shaw, I., & Nicholson, P. (2008). The British Museum Dictionary of Ancient Egypt. AUC Press. Tyldesley, J. (2012). Egypt: How a Lost Civilization Was Rediscovered. UC Press. Wilkinson, R. H. (2000). The Complete Temples of Ancient Egypt. Thames & Hudson.