The 21st Dynasty of Ancient Egypt at Tanis

The solid silver coffin of Psusennes, its upper
half with added gold embellishments.
Cairo Museum.

The move of power and control from Upper Egypt to Lower Egypt, especially reflected in the founding of cities in the eastern Delta by kings in the later 19th and 20th Dynasties, made the division of Egypt complete. Whilst the autonomous High Priests of Amun at Thebes paid a nodding allegiance to the kings in the Delta, they were nevertheless a separate entity.

After Ramesses XI died in 1070, Smendes proclaimed himself king, ruling from the Delta. With his accession, the "official" 21st Dynasty may be said to have begun. Manetho is able to present more detail with this dynasty, listing seven kings, each with their length of reign, and allocating a total of 130 years for them. This corresponds well with the overall dates postulated here of 1069 to 945. Since Smendes is known to have lived at Memphis at least for a while, no doubt the crowning ceremony was carried out there as of old. The new king's origins are obscure and he seems to have consolidated his position by marrying one of the many daughters of Ramesses XI.

Ancient Egyptian High Priests of Thebes

Herihor : High Priests of Thebes

King Ramesses XI of Ancient Egypt

Ramesses IX and X | Ancient Egyptian Pharaohs