Ani was a high-ranking scribe and treasury official who lived in Thebes during the 19th Dynasty of Ancient Egypt, likely under the reign of Seti I or Ramesses II (c. 1290–1250 B.C.). Though his titles vary, he is often called the “Scribe of the Divine Offerings,” indicating a prestigious role in the temple economy. He...
This vividly painted fragment comes from a Book of the Dead scroll dating from 19th Dynasty. The scene depicts a male scribe, identified by his title “Scribe of the House of the King”, offering incense and homage to the enthroned god Osiris, who is flanked by Isis. Behind the scribe stands a female figure bearing...
The wooden figure depicts a naked woman holding what is identified as a cat to her chest, though the animal’s form is somewhat indistinct. Though undated in the museum’s entry, the figure was acquired by the early 19th-century Scottish traveller and collector Robert Hay of Linplum, who amassed a substantial number of antiquities during his...
Among the many sculptural treasures of the New Kingdom are those tenderly carved family group statues intended for tomb chapels; silent participants in the rituals of memory and honour. One such ensemble features the noble figure of Ptahmai, an esteemed official who served under the mighty Ramesses II. As a mark of royal favour, he...
In the annals of ancient diplomacy and warfare, few events stand as prominently as the Battle of Kadesh and the treaty that followed it. Fought circa 1274 B.C., this monumental confrontation between two great Bronze Age powers, Egypt under Ramesses II and the Hittite Empire under Muwatalli II, is widely regarded not only for its...
This piece, fashioned from Egyptian Blue and gold, presents a striking image of the head of a Nubian man engulfed by the jaws of a lion. Though compact in scale, the piece is monumental in its ideological intent. Most likely the terminal of a ceremonial fly whisk or whip, the handle is more than decorative;...
The story of the Ramesside family is one of remarkable social ascent, a lineage that began with distinguished military service and culminated in some of the most celebrated reigns in Ancient Egyptian history. Unlike many royal houses before them, the Ramessides did not inherit the throne through divine birthright or ancient bloodlines. Instead, they rose...
Ipuy was a sculptor and artist who worked during the reign of Ramesses II. His tomb (TT217) is located on the upper terrace of the western cemetery at Deir el-Medina, which was the burial site for the workers, craftsmen, and officials who lived in the Worker’s Village of Deir el-Medina. The Egyptian artistic profession, particularly...
Painted relief depicts goddess Hathor offers Menat necklace to Seti I, from a pillar in the Tomb of Seti I (KV17) in the Valley of the Kings, West Thebes. Seti I’s tomb is known for its rich decoration, which included elaborate depictions of gods and pharaohs in various religious contexts. It’s also famous for the...
This djed amulet was discovered in the tomb of Queen Nefertari (QV66) in the Valley of the Queens and dates back to the New Kingdom, specifically the 19th Dynasty (ca. 1279-1213 BC) during the reign of Ramesses II. The amulet measures 5.5 cm in height, 13 cm in length, and 1 cm in width. It...
