Statue of Amenhotep II with Meretseger, from Karnak, New Kingdom (granite)

This statue represents the king standing with his left leg striding forward, wearing the White Crown of Upper Egypt, and with a uraeus emerging from his forehead. Each foot stands on the image of the nine bows, which represent the combined enemies of Egypt. Both arms reach down and are held against his short kilt, which is decorated with a belt. His face is round, and he has large eyes. Behind Amenhotep is the goddess Meretseger, represented in the shape of a cobra. Her head is surmounted by a sun-disc and cow’s horns. She is standing behind the king in order to protect him. On either side of the king are inscriptions providing his name and royal titles.