Tomb of Ramses II’s Treasurer Found

Newly Found Tomb of Ramses II’s Treasurer

In my fiction, one of Tesha and Hattu’s most powerful enemies is a man I give the name Pharaoh Gerose. Like Tesha and Hattu, who are based on the historical Hittite Queen Puduhepa and King Hattusili III, Pharaoh Gerose has “real” inspiration. I based him on Pharaoh Ramses II (1279–1213 B.C.E). This past season, archaeologists excavating at Saqqara found the tomb of Ramses II’s treasurer, a man who also served as his royal scribe, and supervisor of cattle and sacrifices. I love getting these glimpses into the tangible realities of the historical period I portray fictionally. (Photo at top of Saqqara relief, Carole Raddato Wiki)

New Kingdom Burials at Saqqara

Saqqara served as the New Kingdom burial ground for the royal capital of Memphis. Continuing recent excavations have brought to light several tombs of important officials from Ramses’ long reign. This includes his primary military leaders. So far, archaeologist have only exposed a portion of the newly found tomb of Ptah-M-Wia, his treasurer.

At this point, the work has revealed an elaborate entrance carved in stone depicting Ptah-M-Wia as well as a hall with painted walls of an offering procession. Not surprisingly, these elements share a similar arrangement with the other tombs of Ramses’ officials found at Saqqara. Clearly, Ramses’ treasurer was a powerful, wealthy man. I wonder if he participated in the various negotiations between Ramses and Hattusili and/or Puduhepa?

Photo Ops of the tomb of Ramses II’s Treasurer

To see photos of the tomb (copyrighted elsewhere), you’ll need to click through to the article in Ahram Online “Archaeologists uncover tomb of Ramses II treasurer in Saqqara.”

Here for another post about Ramses II and Puduhepa–about marriage negotiations.