Khafre

Definition

Khafre was an ancient Egyptian pharaoh of the Fourth Dynasty, best known for commissioning the second largest pyramid at Giza and the Great Sphinx, which is believed to bear his likeness. His reign is marked by advancements in monumental architecture and reflects the religious significance of burial practices and the glorification of the pharaoh in Egyptian art.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Khafre ruled during the Fourth Dynasty of the Old Kingdom, approximately around 2570 BC.
2. His pyramid was originally covered with smooth Tura limestone casing stones, giving it a shiny appearance that has mostly eroded away over time.
3. The Great Sphinx, which is located near his pyramid, is one of the largest and oldest statues in the world, believed to be built to protect Khafre's tomb.
4. Khafre's reign is often seen as a time when art and architecture flourished, with a focus on creating structures that emphasized his power and divinity.
5. He is depicted in many sculptures and reliefs with a serene face that embodies royal authority, showcasing the artistic style of this period in ancient Egypt.

Review Questions

• How did Khafre's architectural projects reflect the values and beliefs of ancient Egyptian society?
  • Khafre's architectural projects, such as the Pyramid of Khafre and the Great Sphinx, reflect the ancient Egyptian values of immortality and divine kingship. These monumental structures were not just tombs; they served to demonstrate Khafre's power as a ruler and his connection to the gods. The grandeur of these constructions showcased the Egyptians' belief in life after death, reinforcing the idea that pharaohs were divine figures who would continue to rule in the afterlife.
• In what ways did the art associated with Khafre symbolize his status as a divine ruler?
  • The art associated with Khafre often depicted him in a manner that emphasized his power and divine nature. For instance, statues show him with an idealized physique and serene expression, reinforcing his role as a god-like figure. Additionally, the design of the Great Sphinx as a guardian of his tomb symbolizes strength and wisdom, further connecting Khafre to divine attributes. Such artistic choices illustrate how important it was for pharaohs to be portrayed as powerful beings deserving of reverence.
• Evaluate how Khafre's reign influenced subsequent Egyptian rulers and their monumental architecture.
  • Khafre's reign set a precedent for subsequent Egyptian rulers in terms of monumental architecture and religious beliefs surrounding kingship. The impressive structures he commissioned inspired later pharaohs to invest in grand building projects that echoed themes of divinity and eternal life. This legacy can be seen in how later dynasties sought to emulate or surpass Khafre’s achievements, leading to advancements in architectural techniques and artistic expression. The emphasis on monumental tombs as reflections of divine power persisted throughout ancient Egyptian history, shaping how rulers would be remembered long after their reigns.

Related terms

Pyramid of Khafre: The second largest pyramid at Giza, built as a tomb for Pharaoh Khafre, and an important example of ancient Egyptian monumental architecture.

Great Sphinx: A limestone statue with a lion's body and a human head, thought to represent Pharaoh Khafre, symbolizing strength and wisdom.

Osiris:

The ancient Egyptian god associated with the afterlife, resurrection, and fertility, playing a crucial role in Egyptian religion and the beliefs surrounding the pharaoh's divine status.