The Representation of Ancient Rulers Throughout history, the idea of ​​what a ruler is has evolved. In ancient societies the leadership style evolved from royal leadership to politically appointed emperors. The legacy of the throne and kingship diminished after the world domination of Alexander the Great. Instead, leaders came to power through their political and military prowess, and if their leadership was unsatisfactory they would usually be overthrown. With the evolution of leadership throughout ancient times, came the evolution of art depicting the rulers of the time. The personality and authority portrayed in the portraits use different means of expression. In the ancient Egyptian sculpture of King Menkaure and his queen, in an ancient Greek tetradrachm coin depicting Alexander the Great, and in the portrait sculpture of Emperor Philip the Arab of Rome, it is evident that the representation of the ancient rulers in Art evolves in accordance with the political climate. King Menkaure and Queen Khamerenebty ruled during the Fourth Dynasty of the Old Kingdom in ancient Egypt, around 2533-2515 BC The Fourth Dynasty is associated with the Great Pyramids of Giza. The growing wealth of the ruling families of the period is reflected in their large and elaborate royal portraits. The 4'8" tall statue of King Menkaure and his wife was found in the Valley Temple of the Menkaure pyramid in Giza. It is a good example of Old Kingdom royal tomb sculpture, although it is the earliest known work depicting a couple. The couple's statue of Menkaure and Khamerenebty exemplifies both dignity and marital affection. The statue of King Menkaure and his queen clearly shows Egyptian art's devotion to a canon of proportions. Its strictly frontal point of view, rigid poses of the figures and faithful observance of the established rules and customs can be interpreted as a manifestation of the nature of the Pharaoh's authority over his subjects and at the same time an example of the highly regulated hierarchical structure of ancient Egyptian society. The measured grid of counterbalancing verticals and horizontals, the rigid artificial postures, and the overall idealized anatomical forms of the bodies combined with naturalism are indicative of the Egyptian taste for art and a representation of the character of Egyptian culture. Menkaure's position appears assertive, indicates.. ....middle of paper ......even in his leadership style. The accurate reflection of Philip's true outward image facilitates the realistic portrayal of him as a ruler. In conclusion, the representation of ancient rulers depends not only on the popular artistic style of the time, but also on the evolution of the political climate. The depiction of Menkaure, an Old Kingdom pharaoh in ancient Egypt, is one of complete authority, control and power. His face shows no concern or pain for his people, because he is not politically challenged, the image of control coincides with his exclusive power over the kingdom. While the depiction of Alexander the Great, in ancient Greek coins he is deified. Alexander's leadership ended in world domination; therefore, his deified portrayal of monetary funds is particularly appropriate. In contrast, the sculptural portrait of Philip the Arab almost resembles a present-day photograph with its capture of fleeting expressions. This expression of anxiety and sadness is a representation of the political turmoil during the period of his rule. Taking into account the progress of ancient cultures, how does the art of sculpture improve in the manipulation of the medium used?