Blog #2 - Ancient Egypt

 

This week we talked about the ancient civilization of ancient Egypt. This is super important because it is one of the most influential design periods in history. In Egyptian culture, they placed a high emphasis on religion and eternity. This was demonstrated throughout their designs, from pyramids to household items. I think it's really interesting how the Egyptians' beliefs and practices of honoring and entombing the dead have given us some unique decorations and old surviving furniture.

Weekly Learning Summary

During the Old Kingdom, Egyptians developed monumental architecture that demonstrated divine power. Mastabas (also known as tombs) and pyramids were used to preserve not only the body of ancient rulers but also to surround them with objects for the afterlife. Because of this, we are now able to see ancient wooden furniture, which wouldn't be possible without the architecture. The Great Hypostyle Hall at the temple of Karnak is a very cool achievement of this time. A hypostyle refers to a large hallway with columns holding up a tall roof, which created an overwhelming scale and awe. Standing in this spiritual space made people feel like they were deeply connected to something bigger than themselves. The New Kingdom brought advancements in furniture design. Armchairs became more popular and were known for being Egypt's contribution to the furniture world. Furniture was crafted from woods such as cedar, cypress, and ebony. They were also decorated with ivory, gold, and precious stones. Symbolism was extremely strong in all areas, like the legs of chairs. Egyptian art and design were generally very symbolic and used colors like red, black, and gold. Craftsmanship was very impressive, and styles like jewelry and winged eyeliner are still used today!

Favorite Designs

Pyramid of Giza

The Pyramids of Giza are one of the greatest achievements in Egyptian history. They are built with such intention and precision. I love how they have spiritual meaning as well.

Throne of Tutankhamun

The throne is a beautiful depiction of inlay and gilding. The practical use object was turned into something wonderful. It's considered luxurious in Egyptian design.

Queen Hetepheres’ Bed

This bed frame is very simple-looking, but it is connected to an ancient life. It's crazy that it has survived for so many years!

Egyptian jewelry
Egyptian jewelry is impressive in symbolism. The gold and colored stones are used to represent wealth and the belief in the protective power of beauty. Not to mention, the craftsmanship is amazing!

Current Applications

Luxor Hotel
The Luxor hotel is modeled after the pyramid form. It is basically a direct architectural reference to ancient Egypt!

Chrysler Building

The Chrysler Building in Manhattan, New York, uses Egyptian-inspired art deco motifs, which goes to show how Egyptian forms influenced modern design.

Transamerica Building, San Francisco

This building is just very bold. It has a pyramid-like form at the top, which demonstrates how Egyptian design remains in a modern skyline today.

One Step Further—Tutankhamun’s Furniture

One of the most interesting figures in design history that I learned about this week is King Tutankhamun. His tomb was discovered almost completely intact in 1922. His burial chamber has preserved furniture and gives us a glimpse into royal Egyptian interiors. His throne was decorated in gold and stones, which required high-level craftsmanship and, once again, is very symbolic. His chests and chairs in his tomb were made from local woods, such as acacia and sycamore, often inlaid with ivory! The designs incorporated animal forms and religious illustrations. These helped symbolize status and security in the afterlife. Studying his furniture is pretty cool because the furniture carries more meaning far beyond its practical use. And a combination of symbolism and functionality. 

Closing Reflection

This week I was really impressed by the symbolism in Egyptian design. Pyramids and household items had so much meaning to them and were crafted to last forever. Everyday furniture like couches and chairs we take for granted, but Egyptians used furniture to create art that communicated power and beauty. Studying Egyptian design also made me notice how modern buildings, like the ones listed above, borrow design ideas from ancient cultures.