Anubis The Judge

Design by Najeeb Barbour

The design of Anubis The Judge, created by Najeeb Barbour, draws inspiration from Egyptian history and mythology. Barbour was captivated by the mysterious and powerful character of Anubis, the god associated with death and the underworld. The design aims to reflect the seriousness and boldness of Anubis, incorporating elements from Egyptian drawings, hieroglyphics, symbols, and beliefs.

Design Unique Properties

Anubis The Judge stands out with its meticulous attention to detail and well-thought-out geometrical elements. The design captures the divine charisma and unmatched power of the Egyptian god. The density of the design elements, particularly the choker around the neck, reflects the seriousness and weight of the character. The presence of the scale symbolizes the final judgment in the afterlife, while the beetle highlights the intercession process, emphasizing the power of acceptance.

Design Realization Technology

The design process began with a freehand sketch to establish a cohesive flow of ideas. Barbour then revisited the concept to ensure consistency and perfection in every corner of the drawing, given the density of Anubis's structure. Traditional methods of depicting shapes were employed, carefully applied within the relevant scope of the drawing. The final stages involved digital techniques using Illustrator and Photoshop.

Design Specifications

The design measures W68 cm x H95 cm, with a resolution of 300 dpi and RGB colors.

Design Interaction

Anubis The Judge can be appreciated as a standalone artwork when printed. It also has the potential for transformation into a 3D form, suitable for character stills or animation. The design can be physically sculpted and used as an art decor element, employing metallic materials in handcrafted or factory production. The versatility of the design allows for various operational possibilities.

Design Location and Timeframe

The project commenced in August 2017 and was completed in July 2018.

Design Research

Extensive research was conducted for this design, involving art books on ancient civilizations, calligraphy art, internet sources, and video documentaries. Barbour also sought valuable insights from Egyptian friends and colleagues, delving deeper into the subject matter to develop an original style.

Design Challenges

One of the main challenges Barbour faced was understanding the mythical and methodical aspects of ancient calligraphy and art, particularly how they communicated ideas. The quality and details of the information obtained posed a minor obstacle, but Barbour overcame it to create a compelling and authentic design.

Design Notes

Anubis The Judge showcases the primary features of Anubis as an iconic symbol of an ancient and prominent era. The addition of the title "The Judge" further emphasizes the power and strength conveyed by the character in the design. The geometrical symbols incorporated throughout the design demonstrate meticulous attention to detail. The textured choker wrapped around the character's neck adds depth and visual interest.

Awards and Accolades

Anubis The Judge was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in 2020 in the Graphics, Illustration, and Visual Communication Design category. This prestigious award recognizes well-designed, practical, and innovative creations that meet professional and industrial requirements. The design is respected for integrating industry best practices and competent technical characteristics, contributing to a better world and evoking fulfillment and positive emotions.