Here is a brief timeline of significant periods in Egyptian art:
1. Predynastic Period (ca. 5500 - 3100 BCE):
Art from this period characterized small-scale sculptures like statues of deities as well as pottery decorated with animal figures.
2. Early Dynastic Period (ca. 3100 - 2686 BCE):
Egyptian arts began to show a strong cultural evolution. Artists crafted intricate statues and carvings displaying high technical skill. The Narmer Palette is a famous artwork portraying King Narmer.
3. Old Kingdom (ca. 2575 - 2150 BCE):
Art of this period focused on grandeur and monumentality. Iconic architecture, including the Pyramids and Sphinx, belongs to this era. Sculptures were highly refined, portraying pharaohs.
4. Middle Kingdom (ca. 2040 - 1650 BCE):
During this period, art witnessed innovations. Royal portraits depicted more humanity, while tombs began to incorporate vibrant colored scenes depicting daily life.
5. New Kingdom (ca. 1550 - 1070 BCE):
Amarna Period (ca. 1352 - 1336 BCE): Pharaoh Akhenaten introduced distinct characteristics in statues and reliefs focusing on realism and emotion during his rule.
• Post-Amarna Period (ca. 1336 BCE onwards): Artistic styles returned to traditional values while retaining some aspects of the artistic expression.
6. Late Period (ca. 664 - 332 BCE):
During this period, there was an upsurge in religious artworks including deities and funerary steles. This marked an artistic revival of traditional Egyptian styles.
7. The Greco-Roman Period (ca. 332 BCE - 646 CE):
As Egypt came under Greek and Roman rule, there was a fusion of cultural styles. Egyptian techniques blended with classical elements, making sculptures, reliefs, and architecture.