Search results

Start typing

This exhibition is in the past. View our current exhibitions.
EGYPT

Section of the papyrus belonging to Nesmin, with the first hour of the Amduat

c.300-275 BC

RCIN 1145266

This papyrus was discovered during a second excavation in the Thebes area attended by the Prince of Wales in 1862. The rolled papyrus was found attached to a mummy and later, after the Prince’s return to London, was divided into eight sections, each placed in a leather-covered mount. The papyrus contains part of the Amduat (literally, ‘that which is in the netherworld’), a funerary text describing the subterranean journey of the regeneration of Re, the Egyptian sun god. The Prince’s papyrus covers the first eight hours of the twelve-hour journey. The first hour of the Amduat, divided into various registers, describes the beginning of Re’s journey. The god is shown in his ram-headed manifestation on board the solar barque, accompanied by various deities. The deceased, Nesmin, appears twice in the scene. He is shown kneeling in an adoring position both on the solar barque and in front of it. Acquired by the Prince of Wales in Egypt, 1862

    The income from your ticket contributes directly to The Royal Collection Trust, a registered charity. The aims of The Royal Collection Trust are the care and conservation of the Royal Collection, and the promotion of access and enjoyment through exhibitions, publications, loans and educational activities.