Middle Kingdom 2040 - 1650 B.C. 12th and 13th Dynasties Politics: Mentuhotep II, a Theban ruler, re-unifies Egypt and expands Egyptian rule into Nubia (Sudan) in 2040 B.C. During this period, considered Egypt’s “Classic Era,” the pharaohs are more often perceived and portrayed as good shepherds rather than gods. Art: As the pharaohs strive to restore the administrative state, Egyptian art also undergoes rebirth. The naturalistic styles of the Old Kingdom are revived, but with a new flavor:

The block statue’s form provides more room for inscriptions, while conveying a strong sense of Egypt’s political stability during the Middle Kingdom.

	The somber faces of statues reflect the pharaoh’s heavy burden of kingship.
	Private citizens begin to erect their own statues in temples.
	The block statue takes shape.
	Artists begin working with bronze and other copper alloys.
	Jewelers bring their art to new heights.

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