New Light on the Recarved Sarcophagus of Hatshepsut and Thutmose I in the Museum of Fine arts, Boston

Abstract

The royal sarcophagus Boston MFA 04.278 is of critical importance to the art historical, political and mortuary history of the early Eighteenth Dynasty, yet has been inadequately documented. This study provides new photographs and computer-generated line drawings of all decorated surfaces, new insights into alterations and recarvings, and translations of all texts. The sarcophagus, including its archaeological history and inscriptional evidence, is set in its historical context; it provides no evidence in favour of KV 20 being originally the sepulchre of Thutmose I. Descriptions of the decoration, prototype Book of the Dead texts and facial representational styles follow. Concluding remarks focus on the development of early New Kingdom sarcophagi. An appendix presents scientific analysis of the red paint and filling material used in the recarved inscriptions.