Statue of Princess Nofret

Princess Nofret is best known from the remarkable statues discovered in her mastaba at Meidum, dating to the 4th Dynasty of the Old Kingdom.

She was the wife of Prince Rahotep, a high-ranking noble and likely a son of King Sneferu. Her painted limestone statue is celebrated for its lifelike realism, refined craftsmanship, and vivid colors that have survived for millennia.

Nofret is depicted seated, wearing an elegant wig, a finely detailed broad collar, and a subtly modeled garment, all emphasizing her status and grace.

The expressive eyes—crafted with inlaid rock crystal, quartz, and copper—give the statue a striking sense of presence. Today, the statue of Princess Nofret stands as one of the masterpieces of ancient Egyptian art, offering a glimpse into royal life and artistic achievement during the early Old Kingdom.