Metal Working, Tomb of Rekhmire 1504 BC

"Metal Working" is a facsimile of a wall painting from the Tomb of Rekhmire, an Egyptian official who lived during the 18th Dynasty. Created in 1504 BC, this work is a record of the activities that took place within the tomb, in this case the process of metalworking. The artwork features a craftsman sitting on a stool, using bellows to heat metal while holding a pair of tongs. This particular scene was likely intended to depict a specific metalworking task, perhaps demonstrating the skills necessary for making tools or jewelry. The scene is depicted in a simplified, stylized manner typical of ancient Egyptian art, with bright, flat colors and clear outlines. This piece, now housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, provides insight into the craftsmanship and daily life in ancient Egypt.