The
Pharaohs and the Gods are always viewed in profile. There are no wall decorations
where they 
point
their faces straight towards the observer. "The Pharaoh and the Gods
are busy with each other," said Tony, our guide. "They don't
have time for the people." There is one exception, though. The small,
funny, and plump God named Bes. He dances with his face turned towards us.
He protects the pregnant women and amuses the children.Pharaoh
was God's incarnation on earth. The distance to the people was endless.
Never being able to meet Pharaoh's eyes probably enhanced that feeling.
Not even the three dimensional statues have eyes you can look into. You
can never look the Pharaoh straight in the face.
First published: Monday 20th May, 1996.
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