Syrians Bringing Horses, Tomb of Rekhmire 1504 BC

Nina de Garis Davies made this watercolor of "Syrians Bringing Horses" from the Tomb of Rekhmire, using paper and pigment. This was not merely an act of documentation; it was a work of art in its own right. Davies’s watercolor gives us access to the original craftsmanship of the tomb. Notice how the tomb’s makers skillfully used readily available materials to create a lasting image. The painting on the wall was made from the earth, with pigments derived from minerals and plants. It took great labor to prepare those materials, and then apply them to the wall. This craftsmanship wasn't just about technical skill; it was about preserving and communicating cultural values and beliefs. By focusing on materials, making, and context, we gain a deeper understanding of the full meaning of this artwork and the tomb. It challenges the distinctions between fine art and craft.