Tombs of the Nobles, Luxor, Egypt
This is a regular 12th Dynasty tomb comprising a long entrance corridor before the main chamber. It belongs to the governor and vizier under Sesostris I and is one of the oldest tombs in this group. It is situated high on the mountain and commands a good view of the Nile Valley.
In contrast with the 18th Dynasty murals, these paintings are somewhat crude and carried out on rough plaster. They are nevertheless quaint and informative. On the right-hand wall of the main chamber (a) is a hunting scene with the deceased shooting game in an enclosure. The gazelles, hares, etc. are being chased bydogs. Birds are being netted and fish are being hauled in from a square pond of water. Just beyond the center of the wall (b) is a series of cooking scenes and still further along (c) is are presentation of Antefoker and his wife.
Towards the center of the left-hand wall (d) is a fascinating representation of a funerary dance. It takes place before the deceased is brought to the tomb. The male performers have unusual reed crowns. They chant "O Hathor - a newcomer" and "She has inclined her head" the second chant indicating approval by the goddess of
the deceased's entry to the underworld.
The inner chamber has a deep niche at the end, designed to hold Antefoker's statue (which has now been reconstructed). The burial shaft extends off this chamber. On the right-hand entrance wall (e) are musicians, both male and female. The offerings to the gods of the underworld are near the center of the right-hand wall (f).
