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the tomb of hesy-ra
Page 2 of 9
The primary focus will be on two of the remaining six. There were originally 11 panels,
however the rest were destroyed long ago. Of the six still in existence today, few are
comparatively undamaged. The selected wooden panels are well crafted and in good condition.
The two panels will help illustrate the social and cultural aspects of Hesy-ra’s life. While this will
expanded upon later, the first depicts Hesy-ra seated while the second shows him standing. The
raised relief carving is fairly traditional when compared to other Third Dynasty works. This will
be made evident upon further explanation of Hesy-ra’s role in the usage of the Egyptian Canon of
proportions. The panels themselves stand about 114 cm in height. While the wood is, by now,
dry and cracked, originally, the panels may have been smooth and well finished. Also, in the
traditional Egyptian style, the panels were originally painted in vibrant colors. The artist put
considerable effort into the work.
In the panel in which Hesy-ra is seated, he is posed wearing a long indoor robe. Over his
right shoulder is placed a scribe’s kit. He carries a staff and wears a short wig. There is
considerable detail in his face, showing furrows by the nose and the curvature of the jaw. This
shows his older age well. Above his head are rendered hieroglyphics which depict his titles,
name and functions (Saleh, ills. 21). In comparison, the second panel shows Hesy-ra standing.
Poised for action, he is in the traditional Egyptian stand with the left foot set forward. His wig is
much longer. He still is shown with his scribal kit, this time carrying it in his left hand. In both
panels, he displays elements typical to character portrayals in his time and far into his future.
Details of his face such as his moustache, eyebrow, and eyelid are lightly carved. (Saleh, ills. 21)
As these were not painted on, they provide a greater sense of permanency for the afterlife.
A jar sealing with the name of Djoser in it was found in Hesy-ra’s burial chamber, thereby
connecting with the more established date of the pharaoh’s reign. (Smith, 1981, pg. 64) He ruled
during the Third Dynasty, an era which saw the rise of several kings and took place roughly
between 2649 BC and 2575 BC. (Wittmer)
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