University of the People

Art History 1401

Priya Sehrawat ( Instructor)
20-06-2022

Introduction:
Sculpture is a form of visual art that uses hard or plastic materials to create three-dimensional art
objects. Clay, wax, stone, rubber, metal, glass, fabric, plaster, and wood are examples of the
different materials used to create art (Roger, n.d.). “Materials may be carved, modeled, cast, cast,
forged, welded, sewn, assembled, or otherwise shaped and combined” (Roger, n.d.). In most
cultures, sculpture as an art form is seen all over the world and has performed many roles in
people's lives.

Memi & Sabu

This limestone carving dates back to the Old Kingdom of the Fourth Dynasty of Ancient Egypt
ca. 2575-2465 BC, found in Egypt; Possibly from Memphite, Gizeh, western cemetery. This
sculpture is not royal, as is evident by its resting place (west cemetery); even her posture has no
royal connotation due to Sabu's passing glance. Memi and Sabu represent a non-royal couple
who have a royal acquaintance (Met Museum, n.d.). When Memi places her hand on the
obsessive, it indicates intimacy and possibly is a sign of possessiveness or guardianship. Memi's
masculinity continues to be emphasized, however, Sabu has been shown to point in a particular
direction.

Gudea

The period of this Diorite sculpture is in 2090 BC. A neo-Sumerian culture in Mesopotamia.
Gudea's royal relatives are depicted in her dress and use of royal turrets. Facial poses, frame
alignment suggest appreciation and piety. The inscription on her robe is the will of her god
Ningishzida

Comparison & Contrast

Memi and Sab believe the sculpture provides a connection between the afterlife and the living
world, ensuring the couple can be together after death. Gudea's sculpture is also not vulgar, being
considered in the work itself, and giving it peace and quiet. He also entrusts his life to the gods
and becomes one of the most common places between humans and gods.

Conclusion

In conclusion I would like to say that the art narrates to us stories in their cases, circumstances
and cultures, reflecting the field in which they have created. These works of art simply do just
that and provide the profile of a rough historical narrative. The classifications of Royals and
Nonroyals are different, however, these artistic endeavors provide an unusual spiritual position
between the three (Memi, Sabu, Gudea) and their hearts, and what it has created a connection
and a particular unique relationship.

Word Count

402 Words

References

Rogers, L.R. (n.d.). Sculpture. Encyclopedia Britannica. Retrieved from

https://www.britannica.com/art/sculpture

The Metropolitan Museum of Art. (2019). The royal acquaintances Memi and Sabu. Heilbrunn:
Timeline of Art History. Retrieved from https://www.metmuseum.org/toah/works-ofart/48.111/.