The Deir el-Bahari archaeological site is one of the most important sites in the revelation of Ancient Egyptian history. The site is largely comprised of mortuary complexes, but gained particular renown following the late 19th century discovery of two tombs, now known as the Royal Cache and the Second (or Priests) Cache. The tombs are understood to have been originally commissioned for high ranking dignitaries such as priests, from the abundance of specially dedicated artefacts. However the Royal Cache came to house the mummified remains of several of Egypt’s most influential pharaohs from the New Kingdom Period, including Amenhotep II and Thutmose III, moved from their original places of rest as a protection against rampant looting. Some 6,000 artefacts have since been extracted from the site, with many currently residing in museums across the world. The striking blue glaze exhibited on this piece is characteristic of shabtis discovered at Deir el-Bahari. The colour is believed to be associated with religion, the lotus flower and the cycles of birth and regeneration.
The Third Intermediate Period, occurring between circa 1076-656 BC, was a time of political tension and territorial decline in Egyptian history. The preceding New Kingdom Period witnessed a golden age of rapid territorial expansion, largely led by the successful military campaigns of Thutmose III into Nubia, Syria and Mesopotamia, as well as the eruption of trade along the Silk Roads. With the ascension of Smendes in 1076 BC, Egypt was divided between the Pharaoh and the High Priests. Though this initial split was relatively peaceful, by the eve of the 22nd Dynasty, internal rivalry was rife, and the continued fragmentation of Egypt throughout the 8th century led to the territorial loss of, and later conquest by, the previously conquered Nubia. Artistry during this period borrowed much from preceding periods, particularly the Old and New Kingdoms, but is notable for its localisation. The division of the kingdom seemingly encouraged greater regional distinction which permeated many factors of daily life, including art and religion.
To discover more about ancient Egyptian shabtis, please visit our blog post: How Ancient Egyptian Shabtis and Funerary Statuettes Watched Over the Dead
