The profile of female pharaoh Hatshepsut by Erwin Floor

Today's journey through fascinating Egypt had led me to the majestic Grand Egyptian Museum in Cairo.
Overwhelmed by the wealth of artefacts testifying to a glorious past, I wandered through the halls. Suddenly, my gaze was caught by an object standing in a perfect spotlight: the profile of a statue of Hatshepsut.

Its processing into a black background enhances the serene look of the ancient sculpture. It is a portrait in side view, highlighting the elegant line of her nose and the understated pride of her chin. The lighting created a play of light and shadow that accentuated the refined details of the sculpted face.

This was not just a stone relic; it was a direct connection to one of the most intriguing figures of Egyptian antiquity. Hatshepsut, the female pharaoh who ruled a mighty empire with determination and vision. Her expression, even in this fragmentary profile, exuded an unmistakable authority and, at the same time, a certain serenity.

The masterful hands of the ancient Egyptian artist had crafted this piece with such precision and feeling. The contours of the nemes cloth, the subtle curve of the eyelid, the soft line of the lips - everything showed a deep respect for the person portrayed and exceptional craftsmanship.

In that moment, with my camera at the ready, I felt the responsibility to capture this unique moment. The perfect conditions - the lighting, the background, the composition - seemed to come together to honour the greatness of this historical figure and the beauty of ancient Egyptian art. It was more than a photograph; it was a tribute to a powerful woman and a bygone, but never forgotten, civilisation.