Ungureanu, Viorela Atena; (2023) Recurrences in iconographic programmes of Late Period Egyptian monuments for the afterlife. Doctoral thesis (Ph.D), UCL (University College London).

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Abstract

This thesis analyses the recurrence of iconographic motifs in 8th-6th century BC monuments at Thebes, a phenomenon known in Egyptology under terms such as “archaism” or “renaissance”. The understanding of this practice has gained wide interest in the past 20 years, yet there have not been any in-depth analyses of motifs and implementation practices. The present work pursues a diachronic investigation of nine case studies in the tomb-chapels of Harwa, Montuemhat, Nespakashuty, Ibi, Basa and Pabasa. The motifs are the desert hunt, game players, musicians, sacred oil offering bearers, journey to Abydos, Sacred District, the funeral procession, mourners, and Opening of the Mouth ritual. The aims are to test out new terminology, define the character of recurrences, and understand the agents involved and motif transmission practices. A multi-layered new terminology of deep and shallow retention is tested, based on Husserl’s phenomenology of perception. The motifs are reviewed through visual and iconological analyses and considerations of agency, with their diversity ensuring a deeper understanding of significance and implementation. The thesis demonstrates that retention manifested differently for motif choice and depictive features, yet these were congruent with past practices of adherence to inherited convention, improvisation, and innovation. It is proposed that alongside previously suggested “pattern books”, the artists had access to knowledge of visual element hierarchy of importance, motif typology, and strategies for conveying and eliciting different emotional states. These results reveal a close collaboration between the monument owner, artists, places of ideation and visitors, and a nuanced and intentional approach to scene selection. The research therefore leads to a better understanding of the 25th-26th dynasty views on the past, artistic practices, and motif relevance in ensuring the aim of creating life.

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