I’ve drawn inspiration for “Odd Pharaoh” from the life and images of Akhenaten, an ancient pharaoh from Egypt’s 18th Dynasty. Akhenaten’s mummified remains were never discovered, but the statues and paintings of this “Pharaoh of the Sun” portray a person whose physical appearance was different than most peoples’. Akhenaten attempted to radically change the religion of Egypt, wanting to stand alone among the Great Pharaohs, but hoping to live forever in death.

The wood I’ve used to create Odd Pharaoh has its own history. The alder tree that it came from died in 1995 but stood lifeless for years, shrouded in neglect, much like a mummy. That span of time changed the wood, mellowing its color to a rich amber, while bacteria and fungus streaked the wood with patterns resembling marble. I’ve depicted the base, made from California Claro Black Walnut, in the form of a lily.

I have always seen beauty in odd things. Though Odd Pharaoh’s carved facial features appear grotesque, they are nevertheless appealing, and the color of the alder wood fits well with its finished shape. It is my hope that the alder tree that gave life to Odd Pharaoh will live forever in death.

For more information about Akhenaten, visit the Egyptology Online web page.