Dedication Stela of Hatshepsut and Thutmose III

Author(s): C. Zarnoch, E. Sullivan

Description: This round-topped commemorative stela depicts queen Hatshepsut (center, left) and Thutmose III (center, right) standing before the god Amun (left). The queen raises small jars in both her hands as offerings to the god. Amun wears his typical double-plumed headdress, while Hatshepsut and Thutmose III wear the royal “blue crown” and “white crown” respectively. To the far right is the goddess of Thebes, grasping a bow and arrow, with the standard of the Theban nome serving as her crown.

Provenance: Unknown, probably from Karnak
Person: Hatshepsut and Thutmoses III
Date: Dynasty 18, New Kingdom (1475-1468 BCE)
Material: Yellow sandstone
Functional Comments: Stelae were displayed in temples to commemorate and glorify special religious, historical, or military events. This stela marks the dedication of a new structure at Karnak temple.
Dimensions: H: 115 cm
Current Location: Vatican Museum

Bibliography:

Porter, B., R. L. B. Moss, et al. (1972). Topographical bibliography of ancient Egyptian hieroglyphic texts, reliefs and paintings 2., Theban temples. Oxford, Clarendon Press. pp. 535.

Vatican Museums. (2003-2007). “Vatican Museums Online/Gregorian Egyptian Museum.” http://mv.vatican.va/3_EN/pages/MV_Home.html

External links