Draw Like an Egyptian

I am under the impression that humans are the only creatures who draw deliberately.  Animals and insects, even the weather, can make beautiful marks but these are not conscious acts of embellishmnet.  If you peel the bark off a stick, you might find beautiful tracings of insects but those marks were made in the search for food or shelter not to decorate the stick. At some point in ancient history, a human replicated a pattern from nature as decoration for a personal object.  Drawing has probably always been a part of human culture. 

I find it fascinating that traditional ceramic bowls from all over the world bear similar marks.  Some are drawings of animals and people, some are lines and patterns derived from nature.  Abstract expressions in art begin in these observations of the natural world.

Jar with Drawing of Boat and Passengers

The Egyptians were drawing a long time before the Pharaohs commissioned massive memorials to themselves.  In fact, drawing seems to be at the heart of Egyptian art- observing and interpreting the physical world and spiritual ideals. In museums we only see a sliver of their rich visual life.  Objects made from stone or terra cotta survived in the best shape (and were easiest to haul to Europe for museums, but that is another topic). Drawings that were made on stone or terra cotta seem to be as fresh as they were the day they were made.

Cat and Mouse Drawing on Stone

Papyrus, a predecessor to paper, is made from a reed that bears the same name.  An image of the plant in full bloom is frequently used as a decorative motif in Egyptian art. It was an essential material for those who lived along the Nile and is useful for all kinds of purposes. In addition to a paper-like surface for drawing and writing, the reeds could be bound together into boats, mats, furnishings, hats, screens and other useful objects. 

When you have a chance to look at a drawing made by an Egyptian Artisan, take your time.