Ancient Civilization

After the Pre-Historic period, great advancements were made in society. Structured governments, cities, and industries began to develop in stable locations, rather than the nomadic structure that had been prevelent before. Ancient Egypt in particular saw great advances in their architecture and design, which became highly decorative. Situated alone the Nile River, they used imported timber as well as local acacia, palm, and sycamore and were heavily influenced by their surrounding vegetation. Lotus blossoms in particular were incorporated into many of their designs. Some stone was also used, but they primarily constructed walls and bricks using mud.

The buildings and furniture that they used, particularly those used for religious purposes or the homes of high-ranking individuals, included ornate designs that reflected their beliefs and daily life. Images of gods and goddesses, historical events and figures, and daily activities were depicted in fresco mural paintings, inscriptions, relief sculptures, and towering statues.

They also incorporated a great deal of columns made of sand stone. Temples and palaces in particular were build in the hypostyle that relied of these columns to support the roof. Colors began to increase in intesity, including yellow and black most commonly. Gilded items were also used regularly to adorn rooms. The high level of intricate design carried onto every surface, from the floors to the walls to the ceilings, with designs inspired heavily by plant life and wildlife.

Furniture began to be developed with a great deal more focus on the comfort and style of the pieces. With the lack of wood,  Egyptians learned to incorporate materials like leather, bone, ivory, colored glass, and semi-previous stones as well. Their technology included the developments of techniques like mortise and tenon joins, dovetail joints, and dowels, which we still use today. Their contibutions to design have lasted as long as their legacy and prove the importance of this period.

Current Examples

 

A modern bedroom inspired by Egyptian style

 



Elevator doors from the Art Deco period, using lotus blossom design from Ancient Egypt

 

 

A Thomas Hope setee incorporating Ancient Egyptian characteristics

This video is a great look into Ancient Egyptian architecture and interior design as you experience a virtual tour of a city:

 

 

 

Peer Review:

 

I really enjoyed Nichole's description of the Mesopotamian accomplishments, like the development of urban planning. I also thought it was very interesting that the Mesopotamians designed their buildings to protrude and recede in certain spots in order to create patterns with their shadows.

 

I also enjoyed the photo that Paige S. posted of The Great Hypostyle Hall. The relief sculptures are beautiful, and the man shown in the picture helps give perspective of the magnitude of these columns. It's incredible to think about just how massive they are and how impressive it is that they were created so long ago by people who didn't have modern equipment and tools that we use today.