Uncover the opulent reign of the Silver Pharaohs, overshadowed by Tutankhamen. Egyptologist Dr. Chris Norton delves into the intriguing history of these lesser-known rulers and their lavish burials, highlighting the importance of archaeological discoveries in bridging historical gaps.
The Silver Pharaohs of the 21st dynasty were incredibly rich rulers buried with precious materials, overshadowed by Tutankhamen, shedding light on a lesser-known era of Egyptian rule.
The 21st dynasty of divided Egypt marks a decline in power, with pharaohs confined to the northern region, reflecting strategic shifts towards the Levant region.
Deep dives
The Discovery of the Silver Pharaohs
The Silver Pharaohs of the 21st dynasty, including Shoshank II and Susanese I, are revealed as incredibly rich rulers buried in elaborate coffins laden with precious materials. Dr. Chris Norton explains that these rulers, overshadowed by Tutankhamen, reigned during a period of a century to a century and a half, marking a decline in Egypt's power. The discovery of their tombs filled a significant gap in history, shedding light on a lesser-known era of Egyptian rule that was previously obscure.
The Split in Egypt and the Rise of the 21st Dynasty
The 21st dynasty emerges in a divided Egypt, with the pharaohs confined to the northern half of the country. The capital shifts to the northeastern delta, reflecting strategic priorities focused on the Levant region. The dynasty follows the New Kingdom's era of dominance and centralization, facing a decline in power and influence over time. The discovery of the Silver Pharaohs' tombs in Tanis reveals a unique burial practice in front of the temple complex.
Montay's Monumental Discovery in Tanis
In 1939, Montay stumbles upon a series of royal tombs in Tanis. The unexpected find includes a labyrinth of chambers containing sarcophagi, inscriptions, and treasures, attributing the burials to kings of the 21st and 22nd dynasties. The tomb of Susanese I and his falcon-headed silver coffin, along with other solid gold death masks, showcases the wealth and artistic craftsmanship of this period.
Significance of Montay's Discovery
Montay's excavation in Tanis revolutionizes the understanding of the burial practices and treasures of the 21st and 22nd dynasty pharaohs. The revelation of burial sites in unexpected locations in front of temples challenges conventional beliefs. The presence of intricate treasures, such as solid gold death masks and elaborate sarcophagi, highlights the skill and wealth of these lesser-known rulers in Egyptian history.
The Silver Pharaohs refers to a lesser-known set of ancient Egyptian rulers of the 21st Dynasty, named for the abundant silver discovered in their tombs.
First excavated in 1939 by Prof Pierre Montet, the tombs were filled with fantastic solid silver death masks and elaborate chambers, on par with the likes of Tutankhamun. Despite this, they've failed to garner the same amount of attention.
Today, Tristan is joined by Egyptologist and friend of the podcast Dr Chris Naunton to highlight the significance of these findings, what they can tell us about the rulers Psusennes I and Shoshenq II, how they paint a vivid picture of this important period of history.
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