Guiding Questions: MENKAURA AND QUEEN 

• Out of the three major pyramids of Egypt, is Menkaura’s pyramid the largest, the midsize, or the smallest? 

I just want to say: HIS SARCOPHAGUS BEING LOST AT SEA EN ROUTE TO ENGLAND … OMG. 

• The pyramids are not “stand alone” structures. What else can be found within this funerary complex? 

• How did the Valley Temples function?

I just want to say: DYNAMITE … come on, guys. 

• Where is is thought that this sculpture was likely placed within its original building / site?

• What is the king (Pharaoh) wearing (on his body, head, and face)? 

• What does the Pharaoh hold in his hands? 

• Is the stride of both Menkaura and his queen traditional / expected? 

• How do they know this DYAD (depiction of two) was never finished? 

• What evidence exists that this sculpture was once painted? 

• What is one suggestion / theory as to why a sculpture like this, originally erected in his memorial temple, might have been painted? What may have been the intention over time? 

• What is missing from his brow? 

• What is a theory / suggestion as to why this may not have been included? What may have been there instead? This sculpture is called Menkaura and queen, but there is another interpretation of who the female figure may be. Who? Why do some scholars believe this? Note: The MFA article also suggest she could be the goddess Hathor, but states that she has no divine attributes.

• What was the function of this sculpture?