This reproduction is a reconstruction of a relief from the Great Temple of Abu Simbel. It is one of many scenes in the Great Hypostyle Hall glorifying Ramesses II's military achievements. It likely depicts a moment from the Battle of Kadesh, one of the most famous military campaigns in ancient Egypt, and is designed to glorify the king’s divine authority and military prowess.

Central to the composition is Ramesses, standing tall in his war chariot with a drawn bow, embodying his roles as both warrior and leader. His ceremonial blue crown, the Khepresh, shows his personal involvement and command during battle. His lightweight, two-wheeled chariot, a hallmark of New Kingdom warfare, is pulled by two galloping horses shown in dynamic motion. Engineered for speed and agility, the chariot enabled superior manoeuvrability in combat. The horses, adorned with plumed headdresses and depicted as strong and muscular, represent both the wealth of the pharaoh and the divine favour supporting his victories.

The fortified town under assault appears on a hill to the left, symbolising its strategic importance yet inevitable vulnerability. Chaos reigns within the fortification: defenders surrender, an archer flees with cattle, and on the highest tier, a woman lifts a child in a plea for mercy while a man offers submission. This vivid portrayal of defeat demonstrates Ramesses’s unyielding might to all who view the scene.

Translation – Words Above the Horse
The Good God, son of Amun, Valorous(?), Lord of Might, who protects his army, the strong fighter, who knows his obligation, steady on the chariot like the Lord of Thebes, Lord of Victory, who battles tens of thousands, strong bull among the multitudes, beating the united (confederacy) and crushing the rebels upon the mountains. They enter into their valley like locusts, may you put [your] slaughter in their place, you annihilate their descendants, Oh King, victorious of might!

Translation – Cartouches
User Maat Ra, setep en Ra (“The justice of Ra is powerful, chosen of Ra”)
Ramessu mery Amun (“Ra has fashioned him, beloved of Amun”)