The Nahdet Misr sculpture, designed by Mahmoud Mokhtar, stands gloriously in central Cairo, bearing witness to Egypt’s history, celebrating Egypt’s past and present. Like Mokhtar, any gifted sculptor brings their subject to life, whether through creating chiseled features or casting them in bronze: sculptures defy the expectations of their onlookers. Ancient Egypt’s sculptors created some of the most impressive sculptures of the ancient world. This was largely due to the important role sculptors had in ancient Egyptian culture, as they carved for tombstones, temples, and sarcophagi (stone coffins). The art form has significantly changed over the years due the introduction of modern sculpting techniques and inspirations, but sculptures make their mark in the world, reflecting their place, time, and creators. Here is a look at some of Egypt’s most talented sculptors that stand influential in their work. Mahmoud Mokhtar (1891 – 1934) Often referred to as the ‘father of modern Egyptian sculpture,’ Mahmoud Mokhtar is considered Egypt’s most famous and talented sculptor. Mokhtar attended the School of Fine Arts in Cairo when it opened in 1908, and was part of the original pioneers of the Egyptian art movement. He…
