Choose one example of art or architecture from two of the early civilizations covered in this module to compare and contrast (e.g. Sumer, Akad, Egypt). Be sure to address the following points/questions in your comparison.
• Identify each work (title, culture of origin, date, medium) and describe the most notable formal and iconographic elements in each work. What are some similarities and/or differences across the two cultures in terms of visual style and content?
• Discuss the connection between the works of art and the emergence of religion, writing, political structures, or codes of law within that civilization. How was each respective work related to one or more of these advancements? Do the works reflect similar or differing values across?
• What is a “canon” and how does it relate to representation in art? Describe the canon of Egyptian art using at least one example. Why do you think the Egyptian canon remain unchanged for thousands of years?
