Diagonal Star Tables on Coffins A1C and S2Hil: A New Triangle Decan and a Reversed Table

Authors

  • Robert Cockcroft Department of Physics and Astronomy, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario,
  • Sarah Symons Department of Physics and Astronomy, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario,

Keywords:

Astronomy, Diagonal star tables, Diagonal star clocks, Diagonal star calendars, Decans, Stars, Coffin lids, Middle Kingdom, Asyut

Abstract

We present updates for two ancient Egyptian diagonal star tables on coffins A1C and S2Hil. A1C reveals a new triangle decan, HAt sAbw, which brings the total number of triangle decans to 13 and the total number of unique triangle decans to 12 (because of the duplication of nTr DA pt). We discuss its relevance, why it has likely remained hidden for so long, and why it may have been lost on other star tables. S2Hil is re-examined with new photographs provided by the Roemer- und Pelizaeus-Museum, Hildesheim. We find several striking features of this table that make it unique among the current collection, and also present more information of this table not previously identified.

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Photograph of the new decan, HAt sAbw (M; see text for discussion), located in cell (C3,12) of diagonal star table T8, A1C. Note the darker region, perhaps a water stain, across the top of this decan name that causes this part of the decan to become difficult to read – especially in black and white photographs, but less so in person and in colour photographs. Photograph by the authors

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Published

2020-11-19

How to Cite

Cockcroft, R. ., & Symons, S. . (2020). Diagonal Star Tables on Coffins A1C and S2Hil: A New Triangle Decan and a Reversed Table. PalArch’s Journal of Archaeology of Egypt / Egyptology, 10(3), 01-10. Retrieved from https://archives.palarch.nl/index.php/jae/article/view/355

Issue

Vol. 10 No. 3 (2013): PalArch’s Journal of Archaeology of Egypt / Egyptology

Section

Original Article