Ancient Egypt was a powerful civilization in northeastern Africa, which developed along the Nile River around five thousand years ago and lasted for over three thousand years. During that long span of time, art in Egypt stayed very consistent in terms of style, form, and subject. Egypt was ruled by powerful dynasties lead by a pharaoh. These dynasties are organized by scholars into three distinct kingtoms: the Old, Middle, and New Kingdoms, as well as Intermediate Periods and a Late Period, which lasted until 332 B.C.E., when Egypt was conquered by Alexander the Great. In 30 B.C.E., Egypt became part of the Roman Empire. Polytheistic religion was an important part of daily life in Ancient Egypt, and the pharaohs were considered divine rulers. The art and culture of Ancient Egypt greatly influenced other cultures throughout history, and we continue to be fascinated by the culture’s richly decorated tombs, pyramids, and other art objects.