Sheikh el

This statue represents the Lector Priest Ka-aper. At the time of its discovery by Auguste Mariette, an unpopular mayor in the village had died, and when the local workmen looked into the eyes of this statue they believed that he had returned. Thus, Mariette dubbed it the Sheikh el-Balad, The Headman of the Village. The carving shows the artist’s great skill: the life-like expression on the face, with his thick cheeks, is emphasised by the copper framed eyes, with quartz acting as the white of the eyes, and black paste acting as the pupils. These elements combined make it is easy to believe that this man is alive and standing there. cairo egyptian museum-the Sheikh el-Balad-CG 34; CEM-27 08 09 028wood; H. 112cm; 5th Dynasty, Old Kingdom; Saqqara; Ground Floor, Room 42