Statue of Pepi I or Merenre, from the Temple of Horus, Hierakonpolis, Old Kingdom (copper)

This copper statue of King Pepi I, or his son Merenre, was discovered within a larger copper statue of Pepi I at Hierakonpolis. Both are considered masterpieces of copper statuary from ancient Egypt. The smaller statue presents the king striding forward with his left leg, and holding his arms close by his sides. He originally held objects in his hands – probably staffs or folded cloths – but these are now lost; also, a uraeus will originally have been found in the hole at the king’s forehead, and a protective falcon would have been behind the head. The eyes are inlaid with limestone and obsidian, and he wears a tight fitting cap decorated with circular curls atop his round head. Although presented naked, the statue will originally have worn a kilt.