Hundreds of Ushabti statues of King Shoshenq III discovered

Archaeological discoveries at Tanis reveal hundreds of statuettes of King Shoshenq III, unlocking many secrets about ancient Egyptian burial rituals.

Shoshenq III was an ancient Egyptian pharaoh, reigning during the 22nd Dynasty. Photo: @Sorbonne University.

His reign is usually dated from around 837 BC to 798 BC. Photo: @Sorbonne University.

Shoshenq III ascended the throne under unclear circumstances, possibly following the death of his grandfather, Osorkon II – a transfer of power that may have triggered a succession crisis. Photo: @Sorbonne University.

King Shoshenq III was buried in San el-Hagar, the royal cemetery in the ancient city of Tanis. However, recent archaeological discoveries have raised new questions about his final burial rites. Photo: @Sorbonne University.

During excavations at San el-Hagar, a French archaeological team led by Frédéric Payraudeau from Sorbonne University unexpectedly discovered hundreds of strange objects, believed to belong to King Shoshenq III. Photo: @Sorbonne University.

They are called Ushabti. Ushabti are small statues of servants placed around the north side of King Shoshenq III's tomb as part of ancient Egyptian religious rituals. Photo: @Sorbonne University.

Advanced archaeological exploration and analysis techniques have shown that these figurines are depicted with their arms crossed over their chests. Photo: @Sorbonne University.

The pose appears to show they are ready to serve their deceased master in the afterlife . Photo: @Sorbonne University.

The discovery underscores the importance and long-term archaeological potential of the ancient city of Tanis, which still holds many secrets, experts say. Photo: @Sorbonne University.

Source: https://khoahocdoisong.vn/phat-hien-hang-tram-tuong-ushabti-cua-vua-shoshenq-iii-post2149073262.html