Sculptor Thutmose

Thutmose’s workshop was discovered in early December 1912 by a German archaeological expedition led by Ludwig Borchardt. The workshop was located in what is now known as Amarna, previously called Akhetaten, the then new capital established by Akhenaten. The workshop was identified as belonging to Thutmose due to an ivory horse blinker found in a pit in the courtyard, which was inscribed with Thutmose’s name and title. The building was clearly a sculptor’s workshop, which supported the logical connection to Thutmose, whose occupation was listed as “sculptor”.

Thutmose, however, was not just any sculptor, but was known and titled as “The King’s Favourite and Master of Works,” and such remains so, as his workshop has provided significant insights into Ancient Egyptian art and skill, particularly the Amarna style and age.

Thutmose’s workshop was located in the southern suburb of Akhetaten. Specifically, the workshop is identified today as House P47.1-3, situated in the far end of this southern suburb. This location is near other workshops that produced items for the temples and palaces within the city.

Constructed primarily from mud brick, with some elements possibly in stone or wood for structural support or decoration, the atelier of Thutmose included various rooms, some of which were used for living quarters, while others served as workspaces. There were rooms where sculpting was evidently done, with findings of sculptural fragments and tools. Specific areas were used for storing works in progress or completed sculptures, like the room where the Nefertiti bust was found. There was even a central courtyard, typical of Amarna houses, which, in this case, included a pit where significant findings like the horse blinker with Thutmose’s name were discovered.

Approximately 50 sculptures, including plaster study portraits, were found. These include life-sized heads of Akhenaten, Nefertiti, and other members of the royal family like Kiya, Amenhotep III, and possibly Ay. These plaster models were used for creating consistent royal portraits, showing the detailed preparation and technique of ancient sculptors. Undoubtedly, the most famous find, is the polychrome bust of Queen Nefertiti which was discovered on the floor of a storeroom. It’s regarded as one of the finest examples of Ancient Egyptian art, showcasing the innovative Amarna style. Various other sculptures and fragments were unearthed, providing insight into the range of Thutmose’s work and the artistic practices of the time.