THE MATERIAL ENGAGEMENT AT THE TOMB OF NAKHT (TT52)

THE UNFINISHED OPENING OF THE MOUTH RITUAL (THEBES, NEW KINGDOM, C. 1401-1353 BCE)

Resumen

The tomb of the scribe and astronomer of the god Amun, Nakht (TT52), is located at the archaeological site of Sheik el-Qurna, on the western bank of Thebes, present-day Luxor, Egypt. It was constructed during the first half of the New Kingdom, during the reigns of Thutmose IV and Amenhotep III (c. 1401-1353 BCE). In this article, we propose an analysis of the North Wall of TT52, which contains an iconographic motif commonly referred to as “offerings for the deceased”. We argue, however, that this scene requires a better understanding and thus an updated interpretation. Using the Material Engagement Theory, an updated branch of Cognitive Archaeology, we propose a holistic analysis of the North Wall, considering its arrangement in the decorative plan of the tomb, the elements of the image, and the texts. By understanding the cognitive process behind the construction of this space, we argue that this wall features part of the Opening of the Mouth Ritual.