RECONSTRUCTION OF A TEMPLE FOUNDATION DEPOSITDynasty 18, c. 1501–1498 B.C.Placing foundation deposits at significant points around the precinct of Hatshepsut's funerary temple was one of the crucial rituals "on the occasion of stretching the cord for Djeser-Djeseru-Amun." Brick-lined pits were prepared, into which objects such as these were deposited to insure symbolically the perpetual repair of the monument and replenishment of the royal mortuary cult: raw building materials, tools, fruit, bread, linen, alabaster, precious oils, and ritual implements. The choice parts of slaughtered oxen, usually the head and foreleg, were placed on top of the objects. This display is assembled from among the items recovered from the four foundation deposits of the temple forecourt; the bricks are casts of original ones. Additional material is exhibited in the case at left.From Thebes, Deir el Bahri, MMARogers Fund and Edward S. Harkness Gift, 192525.3.39
