Quartzite block statue of Senmut

From Thebes, Egypt
18th Dynasty, early reign of Hatshepsut, around 1470 BC

The steward of Princess Neferure

Senmut is shown squatting with his robe wrapped around his knees, the typical pose of a block statue. Senmut is one of the well-known characters of Egypt of the New Kingdom (about 1550-1070 BC). Apparently born of relatively humble parents, he rose to very high office in the reign of Hatshepsut (1491-1479 BC) and was probably her most trusted official. His numerous titles and positions included the role of steward of Amun. He also oversaw royal building works at Thebes and organized the transport and erection of the two great obelisks of Hatshepsut in the Temple of Amun at Karnak.

By the time that Hatshepsut became regent, Senmut was the tutor of her daughter Neferure. He had made at least seven statues of himself with Neferure. The British Museum has a statue showing Senmut with Princess Neferure seated on his lap.

T.G.H. James, 'Le prétendu "sanctuaire de Karnak" selon Budge', Bulletin de la société françai, 75 (1976), pp. 7-30

T.G.H. James and W.V. Davies, Egyptian sculpture (London, The British Museum Press, 1983)

R. Schulz, Die Entwicklung und Bedeutung (Hildesheim, 1992)