Prince Arikankharer Slaying his Enemies

myminifactory

Contemporary with early imperial Rome, Meroitic civilization thrived along the fertile banks of the Nile River in Kush, a land now within the Sudan. This African dynasty traded extensively not only with Egypt to the north but also with Greece, Rome, and peoples from the Near East. Consequently, official Meroitic art reflects the incorporation of external influences adapted to serve local rulers. Arikankharer was part of the black royal house of Kush, whose capital was at Meröe. Although the crown prince died before he could ascend to power, this superbly carved relief depicts him as a vigorous, victorious conqueror. Behind him floats a female Winged Victory, brushing away flies, while between his legs a vicious dog mutilates a fallen enemy. As the prince's father, King Natakamani, imported sculptors from Egypt, the work is hybrid in nature. Distinctly Meroitic in style and detail are the compact proportions, round head, curly hair, oversized eyes, flabby neck, and broad shoulders of the prince as well as the portrayal of fear in the faces of the vanquished. The imperial stride, the smiting pose, and the convention of showing the body in profile are attributes assimilated from Egyptian art. Crafted in Meröe