Rulers of Ancient Egypt - The Wise Queen Hatshepsut
Few figures in the history of ancient Egypt are as unique as Queen Hatshepsut. In an era where kingship was predominantly a male domain, Hatshepsut broke convention and led the nation as king herself. Her remarkable talents laid the foundation for the prosperity of the 18th Dynasty.
The World Scan Project has conducted 3D scanning at Hatshepsut's Mortuary Temple to support the preservation and study of her legacy. This article explores the findings of the 3D scanning investigation while delving into her life story and the achievements that cemented her place in history.
The Path to the Throne
Around 1507 BCE, Hatshepsut was born to Thutmose I and Great Royal Wife, Ahmose. She later married her half-brother, Thutmose II, to preserve royal bloodlines and ensure political stability. However, after the premature death of Thutmose II, Hatshepsut assumed the role of regent, governing on behalf of her young stepson.
What began as a regency evolved into a new chapter when Hatshepsut declared herself king. Her unprecedented decision to ascend to the traditionally male-dominated throne was revolutionary for her time.
Known as the "Pharaoh in Men’s Clothing," she donned the symbols of male rulers, including the crown and ceremonial false beard, in official appearances. By adopting these traditional regalia, she visually asserted her authority as equal to that of male kings, reinforcing her legitimacy and projecting an image of majesty. This bold strategy was symbolic and a groundbreaking approach to stabilizing her reign politically.
Photo by User:Postdlf via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
The Mortuary Temple and the Legitimacy of Her Rule
Located on the eastern side of the Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut's Mortuary Temple at Deir el-Bahari is a stunning architectural masterpiece symbolizing splendor and harmony. The temple’s walls and reliefs preserve her claims to legitimacy and immortalize her accomplishments as sacred.
Photo by Olaf Tausch via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)
In the "Birth Colonnade," a grand narrative proclaims that Hatshepsut was the daughter of the god Amun-Ra, chosen by divine decree to rule. One particularly striking scene depicts the god Amun-Ra instructing Khnum and the goddess Heket to create Hatshepsut’s life force, or "ka." The depiction includes a phallic symbol, signifying that Hatshepsut embodied both the physical form of a woman and the spirit of a man, symbolizing her unique qualification to reign as king.
https://digi.ub.uni-heidelberg.de/diglit/naville1896bd2/0046/image,info
https://digi.ub.uni-heidelberg.de/diglit/naville1896bd2/0047/image,info
Remarkable Trade Diplomacy
The reign of Queen Hatshepsut is notable for prioritizing trade and economic growth over warfare, with her most outstanding achievement being the trade expedition to the Land of Punt. Believed to have been located along the southern coast of the Red Sea, Punt provided Egypt with valuable commodities such as frankincense, gold, and ivory. These goods not only enriched Egypt’s economy and improved the living standards of its people but also contributed to the prosperity of the entire nation.
Hatshepsut’s bold venture to this legendary land strengthened her popularity among the populace. Furthermore, she framed the expansion of trade as a divine mandate from the god Amun, portraying its success as inevitable under divine guidance. This clever strategy elevated trade achievements beyond mere economic benefits, leveraging them as a political tool to solidify her authority and divine legitimacy.
Erased Achievements of Queen Hatshepsut
After Hatshepsut’s death, her nephew and co-regent Thutmose III deliberately erased her statues and inscriptions that depicted her as king. This act is thought to have been an attempt to attribute her accomplishments to his father and grandfather or to emphasize his authority.
In Karnak temple, Luxor, Egypt
Photo by eviljohnius via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0)
However, archaeological discoveries and research have revealed the true extent of Hatshepsut’s reign. Today, thousands of years later, her historical significance has been restored. Her story offers profound insights into how the roles and perceptions of women have evolved over time, providing modern audiences with a fresh perspective on gender and leadership.
Conclusion
Queen Hatshepsut was a brilliant and unconventional leader who brought political stability and economic prosperity to Egypt during a male-dominated era. Although attempts were made to erase her achievements after her death, her legacy has been preserved through the restoration of Hatshepsut’s Mortuary Temple, continuing to inspire and leave a profound impression on future generations.
The World Scan Project utilizes digital technologies, such as 3D scanning, to support the restoration of invaluable cultural heritage sites like Hatshepsut’s Mortuary Temple. Through these efforts, we aim to raise awareness about the importance of preserving historical landmarks and explore new possibilities for cultural heritage protection, ensuring their value is passed on to future generations.
Related Information
・Mortuary temple of Hatshepsut 3D Scanning Project
WORLD SCAN PROJECT, Inc.