Queen Nefertiti, whose iconic bust was discovered over a century ago, continues to captivate imaginations worldwide. With her striking features and enigmatic history, she remains not only a symbol of ancient Egyptian royalty but also an enduring cultural figure that transcends time and geography. In 1912, German archaeologists uncovered the world-famous limestone bust of Nefertiti in Amarna, Egypt.
Displayed publicly at Berlin's Neues Museum in 1924, it became an instant sensation. With her chiselled jawline, swan-like neck and kohl-rimmed eyes, Nefertiti's image struck a chord across the world. “Nefertiti's bust is so perfect, she's so self-possessed.
That's what really grabs the attention and imagination. It's her confidence, and her gaze, of course. It's something that attracts us all,“ Dr.
Cheryl Finley, a professor of art history at Spelman College, told CNN . Over the years, Nefertiti's image has influenced fashion, art and beauty standards globally. In the 1920s, Nefertiti's face became synonymous with beauty, appearing in advertisements for cosmetics and beauty columns.
Designers such as French couturier Paul Poiret incorporated Egyptian motifs into their collections, and the queen's image became synonymous with style. In 1961, Vogue explored the enduring “fascination” with Nefertiti, while Elizabeth Taylor's portrayal of Cleopatra in 1963 further cemented the queen's influence on the fashion world. The influence of Nefertiti's image continued into the 21st ce.
