Abstract
This paper discusses the photogrammetric and epigraphic documentation of the late-Roman frescoes in the Imperial Cult Chamber at Luxor Temple by the University of Chicago’s Oriental Institute, Epigraphic Survey Project. It presents a brief history of the room and overview of research related to it, while relaying the epigraphic documentation technique and methodology employed, and the use of photogrammetry to achieve those objectives.
Highlights
The Luxor Temple complex (Fig. 1) is located on the East bank of the Nile River in what was ancient Thebes
Perhaps the best example of this can be found in the Imperial Cult Chamber, located at the heart of the temple between the Portico of Amenhotep III (A III) and the Barque Shrine (Fig. 2)
Covered in debris along with the rest of the temple complex, the Imperial Cult Chamber was most likely excavated during the winter of 1853-1854 by Victor Gustave Maurnier, a French photographer and antiquities dealer whom served as the unofficial French consul in Luxor
Summary
The Luxor Temple complex (Fig. 1) is located on the East bank of the Nile River in what was ancient Thebes (modern-day Luxor). 2021 outstretched wings clutches a gilded and bejeweled oak corona (see Fig. 23) As such, these frescoes are the only example of monumental paintings from the tetrarch era remaining in situ, and perhaps the finest preserved Roman paintings in Egypt. Over the following century, more was learnt about the paintings and their origins, and confusion over their provenance — early Christian church vs late Roman tetrarchy — definitively established (Monneret de Villard, 1953). Despite such knowledge, the quality of artisanship, and the relevance of the frescoes, it wasn’t until the 1970’s that detailed conservation efforts took place under a team led by J.G. Deckers.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
