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Fowling in the marshes: wall painting from the tomb of Nebamun, Thebes, Egypt, c1350 BC
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Fowling in the marshes: wall painting from the tomb of Nebamun, Thebes, Egypt, c1350 BC
Fowling in the marshes: fragment of wall painting from the tomb of Nebamun (no. 10), Thebes, Egypt, 18th Dynasty, c1350 BC. Nebamun stands on a small papyrus boat with his wife Hatshepset behind him and his son below. He is about to let fly a throwstick into a mass of birds above a papyrus thicket. The hieroglyphs below Nebamuns raised arm describe him as taking recreation and seeing what is good in the place of eternity, that is, in the Afterlife. There are at least two meanings to this scene. The spearing of the fish scene may allude to new life, as the tilapia fish is a symbol of rebirth. The other images may be subtly erotic, since the duck is known as an erotic symbol, and a woman dressed up, particularly with such a heavy wig, suggests some form of sexual association. From the British Museums Collection
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Media ID 14852895
© CM Dixon / Heritage-Images
18th Dynasty Afterlife Aquatic Life As Said British Museum Duck Ducks Erotic Fish Fowling Hieroglyphic Hieroglyphics Karnak Luxor Marshes Marshland Mausoleum Papyrus Rebirth Scribe Thebes Wall Painting Ancient Egyptian Mike Dixon Tilapia
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This print showcases a fragment of a wall painting from the tomb of Nebamun, an ancient Egyptian nobleman, in Thebes. Dating back to around 1350 BC during the 18th Dynasty, this artwork depicts Nebamun engaging in fowling in the marshes. Standing on a small papyrus boat with his wife Hatshepset and son by his side, Nebamun prepares to throw his spear-like tool at a mass of birds above a dense thicket of papyrus. The hieroglyphs beneath Nebamun's raised arm reveal that he is indulging in recreation and enjoying the pleasures of eternity – referring to the Afterlife. This scene holds multiple meanings: while spearing fish symbolizes rebirth, other elements subtly hint at eroticism. The duck depicted here has long been associated with sensuality, and the presence of a woman dressed elaborately suggests some form of sexual association. Preserved within the British Museum's collection, this artifact not only offers insights into ancient Egyptian culture but also highlights their artistic prowess. With vibrant colors and intricate details adorning every inch, it transports viewers back to an era when hunting for sustenance was intertwined with symbolic significance. As we gaze upon this image today, we are reminded of Egypt's rich history and its fascination with life after death. It serves as a testament to human curiosity about existence beyond our mortal realm while showcasing the skillful craftsmanship that has allowed us to preserve these glimpses into our past for centuries to come.
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