The Metternich Stela Analysis

What is art? In an attempt to embody all of its characteristics, the Wikipedia Encyclopedia defines art as the product or process of deliberately arranging symbolic elements in a way that influences and affects the senses, emotions, and/or intellect.[1] The Metternich Stela, an ancient work of art located in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, corresponds aptly to that definition. The Stela was carefully carved out of a stone called graywacke with mythological depictions to protect Egyptians against scorpions and snakes—two of the most dangerous threats of ancient Egypt. It was deliberately created between 360 and 343 BC by Egyptians as a spiritual symbol to tame their fears. Through its visual analysis, historical background, and association with other works of art, the Metternich Stela validates itself as a suitable component of art through the element of religion. At first look, the Metternich Stela is a tall piece of graywacke stone that is attached to a rectangular brick on the bottom and is oval in shape on the top. A little above the middle of the stele, is an image. The image shows a being of great importance in the center—a deity of some sort. This god-like being holds a scorpion, a snake, and a feline animal in each hand and is stepping on a crocodile.
It showed that Egyptians were intimidated by poisonous animals during that time period and needed religious support. The time and effort put into the creation of the stele shows that art and architecture was valued at that time. The Egyptians were very advanced—perceiving that this type of stone will persevere through erosion and knowing which tools to use to effectively construct it—but they also lacked a sense of realism in the standing positions of their characters. Regardless, the Metternich Stela represents an important time in history and we should be honored to have it at the Metropolitan Museum of