Hofmann, E. 2004. Bilder im Wandel. Die Kunst der ramessidischen Privatgräber. – Mainz, Philipp von Zabern (Theben XVII)

Abstract

The interest of scholars in the tombs of the Theban necropolis has always been large, but focus has much been on the buildings of the 18^th Dynasty, whereas the Ramesside buildings received only little attention. The Theben Project of the University of Heidelberg fills this gap. Hofmann’s book on the Ramesside private tombs from art-historical perspective, has to be seen as part of this project and can be regarded as a summary of the author’s research. Where individual tombs were topic of most monographs and essays, Hofmann presents various tombs which makes a detailed analysis possible of the style development of this epoch in Thebes.

‘Bilder im Wandel’ is divided into two main parts. The first part deals with the style development of the Theban tombs and starts with the section on buidings from immediate post-Amarna date (Amenhotep Hui TT40, Neferhotep TT49, Mose (TT 254), Parennefer/Wenennefer TT-162, Amenemope TT41, Nai TT 271, Hatiai TT 324 Ramose TT166 and Neferhotep TT 50). The tombs are described in great detail and the focus is, obviously, on the decoration. Interesting is the comparison with Memphite funerary buildings, since directly after the Amarna period the capital shifted to Memphis and many high officials were buried there. Various figures and photos of high quality are mixed with the text and illustrate the different decorations of these tombs beautifully. Read more...