Representation of the King in the Henu Praise on the Egyptian Temples During the Graeco-Roman Period

Abstract

The souls of Pe and Nekhen used to be depicted in Henu posture. It is done by striking chest with a fest while raising other arm, while kneeling on one knee. This praise was done to greet new-born sun or celebrate animated soul of king during the recitation of Glorifications ritual. The king was represented in Henu posture during Pharaonic period in tombs. However, he was rarely represented in this posture on walls of temples. In late period, statues of kings in this posture appeared. During Graeco-Roman period, king was more frequently represented in this posture on walls of temples, precisely on doors and windows. It could be an imitation of souls of Pe and Nekhen that used to be represented flanking doors mortuary temples of Old Kingdom.