Description :
This Egyptian papyrus represents the sky and the signs of the zodiac. It is made in Egypt, in the Nile Delta, with the emblematic papyrus plant using the artisanal method. It is then painted in mixed media combining different techniques (engraving, gouache , shimmering pigments and golden highlights .)
This papyrus is inspired by an 1802 engraving by Dominique Vivant Denon, which reproduced a celestial vault carved in bas-relief in the sandstone, which decorated the ceiling of the Chapel of Osiris, in the temple of Athor at Dendera, in Egypt; a bas-relief which is today preserved at the Louvre Museum.
The four kneeling couples correspond to the cardinal points, the twelve figures carrying the celestial sphere represent the months of the year. The thirty-six figures in procession along the celestial circle represent the decans, each corresponding to the Egyptian week, which was ten days long. Although it is generally accepted that the ceiling was sculpted in the Ptolemaic period, the vault could reflect the knowledge of Egyptian astronomy four thousand years earlier. In the inner circle, the zodiacal signs mingle with the planets and constellations. Their precise position and the depiction of the eclipse that took place in March 51 BC confirm that the zodiac was drawn between June and August of the year 50 BC, under the Ptolemies.
Display this fascinating Egyptian cosmos in your home, office, or meditation space as a gateway to the ancient world. This work also makes a sumptuous Egyptological gift, meaningful for those passionate about astrology, mythology, or antiquity.
Size : 45 (high) x 65 (wide)
NB : frame not supplied
Shipping: All our items are shipped from Nice, France (in an extra rigid cardboard tube) which allows us to offer fast and reliable shipping by Colissimo or DHL, throughout Europe
Responsible and responsible purchasing: When you purchase this papyrus, you support papyrus production in the Nile Delta, which is unfortunately in decline. In addition, Nilazur is committed to donating €1 to an association that supports the education of young girls in Egypt.
