The artwork titled “Nakht and Family Fishing and Fowling, Tomb of Nakht,” created by an unknown artist from Ancient Egypt around 1390 BC, exemplifies the New Kingdom art movement. Executed in tempera, this genre painting is part of a series from the Tomb of Nakht, dating approximately from 1400 to 1300 BC.
The artwork intricately depicts scenes of daily life and leisure activities of Nakht, an ancient Egyptian scribe, and his family. The upper register illustrates Nakht and his family engaged in fishing and fowling within a bustling marsh environment, symbolized by lush papyrus plants and abundant wildlife, notably birds. Nakht is prominently shown in traditional Egyptian attire, casting a fishing net while standing on a papyrus skiff, alongside his wife and children. The bottom register features domestic scenes of harvesting and preparing food, highlighting bountiful baskets of fruits, vegetables, and grains. Around these vignettes, a lush array of offerings is depicted, emphasizing the prosperity and wealth of Nakht’s household. The composition is enriched with hieroglyphic inscriptions and ornamental motifs, showcasing the sophistication and intricacy of Ancient Egyptian artistry. The tempera medium brings forth vivid and lasting colors, underscoring the vibrancy of life in Ancient Egypt.
