A comparative study of two new kingdom Memphite panels at the Egyptian museum in Cairo tr. 17.5.25.1 - tr. 12.6.24.20

Abstract

This study conducts a comparative analysis of two New Kingdom Memphite panels at the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, which depict the funeral processions scene, emphasizing the similarities and differences in their artistic and linguistic structural composition. Although both panels have previously been published as components of their respective tombs, this paper advances upon prior documentation by providing detailed descriptions and analytical discussions of the scenes and accompanying inscription. The study addresses the following research questions: In what ways do the two Memphite panels enhance understanding of New Kingdom burial rituals? To what extent did artistic styles from Tell el-Amarna influence the workshops in the Memphite tomb? How do the inscriptions on these panels illustrate the evolution of ancient Egyptian beliefs about the perspective of the underworld? The first panel (Tr. 12. 6. 24. 20- Sr. 11764) depicts a short version of the procession to the tomb of Khaemwaset, chief of the king's woodworkers/carpenters. Discovered in 1870 by "Vassalli" at Kafr El-Batran, in Giza, dating to the late 18th Dynasty/early 19th Dynasty. The panel is distinguished for its unusual technique of depicting events, which may have been inspired by the private tombs of Tell el-Amarna, and for its portrayal of a detailed version of the rituals associated with breaking red pots. The second panel (Tr. 17.5.25.1- Sr. 12073) depicts a long version of the procession to the tomb of Mes, the scribe of the treasury of Ptah. Discovered in 1898 by "Loret" in the tomb, which is located within the King Teti pyramid cemetery in Saqqara North, dating to the mid-19th Dynasty. The panel is notable for its accompanying inscription, which communicates a sense of despair through its mentions of the underworld, which may have been inspired by the Book of the Dead (BD. 175).