The Younger Memnon statue of Ramesses II is a broken statue displayed in The British Museum in London. It was made about 3,300 years ago in Ancient Thebes, Egypt. The statue is 8.8 feet tall and depicts the Egyptian pharaoh Ramesses II, also known as Ramesses the Great, who ruled from 1279 to 1213 B.C. The granite statue may have been painted in ancient times, as traces of red paint are visible.
Ramesses II was a powerful pharaoh of Egypt’s New Kingdom and was known for his military campaigns and construction projects, including temples, monuments, and cities. The Younger Memnon statue was part of a temple complex dedicated to Ramesses in Thebes. The statue’s name “Memnon” comes from a Greek inscription, but it actually represents Ramesses II.
The Younger Memnon is famous for inspiring the English poet Percy Bysshe Shelley to write the poem “Ozymandias,” which refers to Ramesses II. Egyptology was gaining popularity in the 19th century, leading to a fascination with ancient Egypt in Europe and America. However, it is uncertain if Shelley saw the actual statue or just heard descriptions of it.
The British Museum acquired the Younger Memnon in 1821, a few years after Shelley’s poem was published in 1818. The poem includes the famous lines “Look on my Works, ye Mighty, and despair!” which reflect on the fleeting nature of power and empire.
In addition to inspiring literary works, the Younger Memnon provides valuable insights into ancient Egyptian art and history. The statue’s preservation and display in The British Museum allow visitors to appreciate the craftsmanship and significance of Ramesses II’s reign.
Overall, the Younger Memnon statue of Ramesses II continues to captivate audiences with its historical significance and cultural impact. The connection to Percy Shelley’s “Ozymandias” adds another layer of intrigue to this ancient artifact, highlighting the enduring legacy of Egypt’s pharaohs in art and literature.
