1 minute read
Esmat Dawestashy
from Eternal Light
by artdegypte
Esmat Dawestashy
Half Circle of Death , 1981
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Mixed media on wood
125 x 125 cm
Image courtesy of the artist
The mummy within its sarcophagus is perhaps the most iconic of ancient Egyptian symbols. This highly textured piece also combines shapes and symbols from other eras of Egyptian culture, such as Islamic arches and crescents. In this way, Esmat Dawestashy places ancient Egypt at the heart of his nation’s history but makes connections across the centuries which reflect his ability to capture Egypt’s more complex and layered character. Egyptian heritage has always been Dawestashy’s muse. This more inclusive manifestation of ancient Egyptian preparations for the afterlife therefore enables his Half Circle of Death to build on Egypt’s ongoing creative legacy.
