The Depiction of Tomb Patrons in the Tombs of Roman Egypt

Habib, Lilian Shawky; Abelwahed, Youssri E. H.; Abdallah, Ali Omar

doi:10.21608/mjthr.2024.302060.1165

The Depiction of Tomb Patrons in the Tombs of Roman Egypt

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

¹ Tourist Guidance Department, Faculty of Tourism and Hotels Minia University

² Tourist Guidance Department, Faculty of Tourism and Hotels, Minia University

³ Tourist Guidance Greco Roman , Faculty of Tourism and Hotels, Helwan University

10.21608/mjthr.2024.302060.1165

Abstract

This article explores the depiction of tomb patrons in the burials of Roman Egypt, highlighting the fusion of Classical and Egyptian elements in funerary decoration. It focuses on regional variations in the depiction of the tomb patrons in Roman period, shedding the light on the differences between Alexandria and the chora in terms of style, dress, and initiation into the cult. It can be said that each region has its unique style of representation for the tomb patron. Previous and current studies have concentrated on the decoration of the tombs of Alexandria and the temples. There is no comprehensive study on the issue of regional variations in the depiction of the tomb patron in Roman Egypt. It aims at filling in this research gap. It uses a descriptive, analytical and comparative methodology of archaeological evidence, scenes of tomb patrons' in tombs dating back to Roman Period, from tombs of Alexandria and the chora, in certain regions (Tuna El Gebel, Akhmim, and Dakhla Oasis), focusing on the integration of Greek cultural symbols while maintaining their traditional Egyptian essential characteristics, to explore the depiction of tomb patrons, their attire, and their association with cults like the cult of Isis, and how the regions affected their style of depiction. Inhabitants of Roman Egypt were careful enough to cope with the trend of portraying the dead in a new style (Graeco-Roman), but they took hold on traditional Egyptian religious beliefs, yet sometimes Greeks and Romans and traditional Egyptian styles and beliefs were intermingled.

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