What Is a Frieze in Ancient Egypt?

Multiple friezes decorates the Luxor Temple, located it what was ancient Thebes.
... Photos.com/Photos.com/Getty Images

The ancient Egyptians used art to record their history, to decorate their temples and other places of worship, and to personalize their tombs. The frieze was one of the most popular pieces of art that Egyptians created. A frieze was simply a long band of painting or sculpture on a wall. Most were carved or painted directly on the wall.

1 Notable Egyptian Friezes

There are many examples of famous friezes found in ancient Egyptian temples and tombs. In the Luxor Temple, located in the city of the same name, friezes depict the god Amun's arrival at the temple, the Opet Festival and the sacrifices at Karnak. Many friezes, like some of those found in the tomb of King Tutankhamun, depict scenes from the life of the person buried. The friezes can either tell the person's history or can show off why the person is important, such as elevating pharaohs to the status of deity.

Maria Magher has been working as a professional writer since 2001. She has worked as an ESL teacher, a freshman composition teacher and an education reporter, writing for regional newspapers and online publications. She has written about parenting for Pampers and other websites. She has a Master's degree in English and creative writing.

×