Queen Nefertiti

Nefertiti was the Queen, and virtual co-ruler of Akhenaton (Amenhotep IV).  She supported his radical religious reforms and assisted him in performing the religious rituals of Aton-Ra, the sun-god declared supreme by her husband.  Historians speculate that she may actually have been not only his wife, but his mother as well, maintaining the lineof succession by marrying her son when he ascended the throne.

Nefertiti is perhaps best known for her portrait bust (below).  The statue, representing the best qualities of Amarna art -- naturalistic features and posture, only a slight idealism, and a marked lack of interest in political propaganda.

Bust of Queen Nefertiti- exemplifies Amarna Art