Cairo archaeologists announced the discovery of a High Priestess tomb.
During a recent press interview, Dr. Mostafa Waziri, the secretary general overseeing the Supreme Council of Antiquities, announced the recent unearthing of a tomb belonging to an Old Kingdom high priestess. Archaeologists believe that the tomb is at least 4000-years-old.
High Priestess Tomb Adorned with Hunting and Fishing Scenes
On Saturday, Dr. Mostafa Waziri announced the discovery of a tomb near the Giza plateau. The recently discovered place of interment belongs to Hetpet; a high priestess believed to have lived in the 5th century.
Waziri pointed out that the archaeological team that made the discovery had to excavate around 300 metric cubes of earth layers in order to gain access to Hetpet’s burial chamber. Although artifacts linked to the tomb of Hetpet have been uncovered in the area since the beginning of the 20th century, this is the first time scientists had the privilege to see the high priestess’ tomb in all its splendor.
And it was a sight to behold, interjected Dr. Wazir, as the wall’s of Hetpet’s tomb was covered by magnificent frescos, depicting the high priestess in various social situations.
One of these frescos depicted Hetpet overseeing a hunting and fishing party. Another one, contained a representation of a monkey, a popular house pet during the Old Kingdom, playing a musical instrument in an orchestra.
Probably one of the best-preserved murals shows the high priestess sitting at a table, accepting a gift from a devout follower. According to historical records corroborated with the murals, Hetpet was an iconic figure in the Old Kingdom’s religious landscape and that she was held in high regards by the Pharaoh.
Conclusion
Not much is known about Hetpet, and the archaeologists have yet to find the sarcophagus containing her mummy. However, Dr. Wazir declared that the expedition is far from over and that more precious artifacts might resurface.
Image source: Flickr
