7) Why was Egyptian art not intended to be seen? C

Egyptian art was not intended to be seen by the general public for several reasons:<br /><br />1. **Religious and Ritualistic Purposes**: Much of Egyptian art was created for religious and ritualistic purposes. Temples, tombs, and other sacred sites were often hidden or located in remote areas to preserve the sanctity of the space and the objects within it. Only specific individuals, such as priests and pharaohs, were allowed to witness these sacred rituals and view the art.<br /><br />2. **Symbolic Representation**: Egyptian art was highly symbolic and often contained complex meanings and messages. The art was intended to communicate specific ideas and beliefs to those who were knowledgeable about the symbols and their meanings. The general public might not have been trained to understand these symbols and could misinterpret the intended messages.<br /><br />3. **Preservation of Power and Status**: Art was also used to demonstrate the power and status of the pharaoh and the elite. By keeping certain artworks out of the public eye, the elite could maintain their exclusive status and authority. Public displays of art could diminish the perceived exclusivity and grandeur of the pharaoh's reign.<br /><br />4. **Cultural and Social Hierarchy**: Egyptian society was highly stratified, and access to certain types of knowledge and cultural artifacts was restricted to the upper classes. Artistic works were often commissioned by the elite and were meant to be appreciated by them rather than the general populace.<br /><br />5. **Aesthetic and Practical Considerations**: Some Egyptian art was created for practical purposes, such as tomb decorations to ensure the deceased's safe passage to the afterlife. These artworks were meant to serve a specific function within a particular context and were not intended for general viewing.<br /><br />In summary, Egyptian art was often hidden or restricted to specific individuals due to its religious, symbolic, social, and practical purposes.