Thutmose, Bust of Nefertiti

The bust of Nefertiti is a life-size, full-color image located in the Neues Museum in Berlin, placed in a rotunda with a large dome.

It is believed to be a model or prototype created by the artist Thutmose for other sculptures of Nefertiti, as it was found incomplete in his studio.

The sculpture is made of painted limestone covered with a thin layer of plaster to achieve subtle effects in modeling her face.

The finer details of the sculpture, such as the lines around her cheeks and the movements of her face, were created using the plaster layer.

Nefertiti is depicted with high cheekbones, a long neck, and a beautiful symmetry that creates a sense of continuity from the top of the sculpture to its base.

The sculpture represents a new ideal of beauty in ancient Egyptian art, influenced by the monotheistic religion established by Pharaoh Akhenaten.

Nefertiti is seen as a powerful figure who may have shared power with the pharaoh during the Amarna period.

The sculpture provides insight into late Egyptian culture, showcasing powerful and beautiful women like Nefertiti and Akhenaten's mother, Tiye.

Creators/Contributors

• Thutmose (artist)
• Dr. Steven Zucker
• Dr. Beth Harris