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Water Rat Climbing Papyrus
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Water Rat Climbing Papyrus
Detail from the wall paintings of the Tomb of Menna in the Tombs of the Nobles in Thebes. The water rat is climbing a papyrus plant in a hunting scene in the marshes
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Media ID 14167020
© Walter Rawlings / Mary Evans Picture Library
Papyrus Thebes Menna Tombs Of The Nobles Water Rat
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This detail from the ancient Egyptian tomb painting of Menna, discovered in the Tombs of the Nobles in Thebes, showcases the intricate and vibrant scenes of daily life and hunting in ancient Egypt. The painting, now preserved in the collections of the Ashmolean Museum in Oxford, England, dates back to the New Kingdom period, around 1479-1458 BCE. At the heart of this exquisite composition, a water rat skillfully climbs a towering papyrus plant. The water rat, a common sight in the marshes and wetlands of ancient Egypt, was considered a delicacy and a prized game animal. Hunting scenes were a popular motif in Egyptian tombs, symbolizing the deceased's earthly accomplishments and their ability to provide for their family in the afterlife. The papyrus plant, native to the Nile River delta, is depicted in all its glory, with its tall, slender stalks and broad, fan-like leaves. The plant's versatility was essential to ancient Egyptian culture, as it was used for various purposes, including building materials, food, and writing paper. The meticulous brushwork and rich colors of the painting bring the scene to life, transporting us back to the lush, verdant marshes of ancient Egypt. The intricate details, from the water rat's determined expression to the delicate papyrus leaves, reveal the masterful artistry of the ancient Egyptian painters. This painting is an invaluable testament to the history, culture, and artistic achievements of one of the world's most fascinating civilizations.
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