Why the bust of Ramesses II is a star attraction at the British Museum

The colossal bust of Ramesses II at the British Museum

The British Museum in London is home to one of the most famous pieces of ancient Egyptian sculpture outside Egypt: the colossal bust of Ramesses II. Also known as the “Younger Memnon,” this immense granite statue once formed part of a seated figure of the pharaoh that stood in the mortuary temple at Thebes. Today, it dominates the Egyptian Sculpture Gallery, wowing visitors with its sheer size and craftsmanship.

A pharaoh who shaped Egypt’s history

Ramesses II, also called Ramesses the Great, reigned from 1279 to 1213 BC during Egypt’s 19th Dynasty. His reign was marked by military campaigns, monumental building projects, and a reputation for power that lasted long after his death. The colossal statue reflects the pharaoh’s desire to project his authority and divine status through art and architecture.

Origins of the Younger Memnon

• The bust was carved from a single block of red granite.
• It originally stood in the Ramesseum, Ramesses II’s mortuary temple in Luxor (ancient Thebes).
• The statue would have been around 10 metres high when complete.
• It was transported to Britain in the early 19th century by the explorer Giovanni Belzoni.

Why the statue is significant

This sculpture is one of the best examples of pharaonic portraiture from the New Kingdom. Despite being damaged and incomplete, the bust preserves key details such as:

• The royal nemes headdress with uraeus (cobra symbol of kingship).
• A stylised ceremonial beard.
• Idealised facial features that convey strength, calm and permanence.
• The imposing scale and artistry make it a highlight of the British Museum’s Egyptian collection.

How to visit the Ramesses II bust

The colossal bust of Ramesses II is displayed in Room 4: Egyptian Sculpture at the British Museum. Entry to the museum is free, although timed tickets are recommended during busy periods.

Visiting tips:

• Arrive early to avoid crowds around the statue.
• Combine your visit with other key Egyptian exhibits, including the Rosetta Stone and Assyrian wall reliefs.
• Allow extra time to explore the surrounding galleries, which house other large-scale Egyptian statues and artefacts.

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• The part of the Tower of London you should visit first.
• Is the Tower of London worth the ticket price?
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