GEM 2381

Sarcophagus of Princess Nitocris

This granite sarcophagus belonged to Princess Nitocris, daughter of King Psamtik I, a powerful pharaoh of Egypt’s 26th Dynasty during the Late Period (c. 589–570 BCE). She held one of the most prestigious and politically influential religious titles in Egypt: "God’s Wife of Amun." The role of God’s Wife was more than ceremonial—it conferred immense religious and administrative power. Princess Nitocris was adopted into this role around 656 BCE, a time when her father sought to consolidate his control over Egypt. By placing her in this position, Psamtik I secured Theban loyalty in Upper Egypt and maintained dynastic influence through divine association. The title was traditionally reserved for high-born women, and Nitocris was one of the few royal daughters to ascend to it as a virgin princess, meaning she was not married, and her power was spiritual rather than dynastic. She succeeded Shepenwepet II, her adoptive predecessor, and would have exercised authority over temple finances, rituals, and regional governance. Her sarcophagus, carved from granite, was discovered in a tomb at Deir el-Medina, though the location of her mummy remains unknown. The tomb was likely prepared near that of her mother, possibly Queen Mehtenweskhet, reflecting strong familial and religious ties. The presence of this sarcophagus is a rare and poignant reminder of the political agency held by royal women in Late Period Egypt—especially through religious offices that blurred the line between statecraft and sacred duty. This granite sarcophagus belonged to Princess Nitocris, daughter of King Psamtik I, a powerful pharaoh of Egypt’s 26th Dynasty during the Late Period (c. 589–570 BCE). She held one of the most prestigious and politically influential religious titles in Egypt: "God’s Wife of Amun." The role of God’s Wife was more than ceremonial—it conferred immense religious and administrative power. Princess Nitocris was adopted into this role around 656 BCE, a time when her father sought to consolidate his control over Egypt. By placing her in this position, Psamtik I secured Theban loyalty in Upper Egypt and mainta ... Discover more with Premium!

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