Kneeling Statue of Khaemwaset, c.1281-1277 BCE (probably Diorite)

Khaemwaset, the fourth son of the pharaoh Ramesses II, is known as the first Egyptologist because he studied and restored ancient monuments, including pyramids, built more than a thousand years earlier. The large size and exquisite detailing of this statue emphasize the prominent position of Khaemwaset. The exclusively royal wave pattern on the belt testifies to his nobility, while the superbly modeled musculature of his legs reveals youthful strength. The statue originally held an image of a god, probably Ptah, who is mentioned in the fragmentary inscription. The text also provides Khaemwaset’s titles: hereditary prince, king’s son, sem-priest, chief directing artisans.