\paperw4260 \margr0\margl0 \plain \fs20 \f1 This colossal, fragmentary bust depicts the pharaoh Amenhotep IV, better known as Akhenaton. This name signifies ôfollower of Aton.ö I
n fact, around 1350 BC, he brought about a religious revolution in which traditional polytheism was replaced by the worship of a single deity, the sun god Aton.\par
The portrait comes from the great shrine erected in honor of Aton at Karnak. It was part
of a statue-pillar located in the temple precincts.\par
The statueÆs features are quite different from the stereotyped image of earlier rulers: the oval face with its elongated jaw, fine eyes and fleshy mouth reflect a new style. This period in art is
called Amarna, after the name of the city that Amenhotep IV chose as his capital, Tel el Amarna.\par
Paint was used to give the portrait a naturalistic effect. Here traces of red can still be seen on the lips and beard.\par
The crossed scepter and flai
l, symbols of authority, are set on the breast. The names of the god Aton are inscribed on the shoulders and arms, in small projecting blocks.\par
A prominent stomach can be seen under the arms, and this is a characteristic feature of Amenhotep in all o
