Painted Limestone Relief Of King Nebhepetre Mentuhotep

Mentuhotep II, Nebhepetre was considered by the ancient Egyptians to be one of their great kings, it was he who unified Egypt after over 150 years of anarchy. During his reign Thebes came into prominence and the prosperity can be seen by his once spectacular temple built as Deir el Bahri in the cliffs at western Thebes, now in the shadow of Hatshepsut’s magnificent temple, which followed over 500 years later.

The beautifully fashioned and painted limestone relief is a triumph of Middle Kingdom art. The colour still extant today, consists of, yellow, red, green, blue, brown and white has stood, with ease the test of time. Mentuhotep whose name means Montu (the Theban god of war) is pleased, takes centre stage looking proud of his achievements wearing the white crown of Upper Egypt with ureaus. His white tunic has a strap knotted over the right shoulder; his brown colouring depicts his outdoor image, nobily wearing a broad ceremonial collar of blue and green beads.

The observant detective will notice the king’s beard is curled denoting his divine presence. The detective will also be aware, the kings name appears on three occasions

Had you noticed the palace façade below the Horus name?

PG 110/111