The Coronation Journey of Queen Nefertari — c. 1255 BCE (New Kingdom, Valley of the Queens)

Description

This papyrus scene comes from the walls of Tomb QV66, one of the most expansive and artistically rich tombs in the Valley of the Queens. Spanning over 520 square meters, the tomb is devoted almost entirely to visual narratives of Queen Nefertari’s life, status, and legacy — an honor reserved for only the most exceptional royal figures.

Nefertari’s prominence was extraordinary. She appears alongside Pharaoh Ramesses II not as a background figure, but as an equal presence — even during significant state journeys, such as expeditions to Nubia connected with the construction of Abu Simbel. Her depiction at the same scale as the pharaoh was rare and intentional, signaling political importance rather than symbolism.

In this composite scene, movement unfolds from both sides toward a central moment of acknowledgment. From the left, Nefertari is guided toward Ma’at, the principle of order and balance that underpinned Egyptian governance and ethics. From the right, she is escorted toward Isis, shown holding the ankh, a sign of continuity and sanctioned authority. Above, the hieroglyphic band records her identity and achievements, anchoring the scene in narrative rather than ceremony.

At Abu Simbel, Ramesses II commissioned a smaller adjacent temple bearing Nefertari’s name — an exceptional decision, as monumental architecture was almost exclusively reserved for established traditions, not living individuals. This visual record reflects that same distinction: a queen whose role extended beyond consort to state partner.

This artwork preserves a political and cultural statement, not a ritual — a testament to visibility, partnership, and legacy in ancient Egypt.

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Papyrus Details

• Delivered with natural rough edges, easily trimmed to fit your frame

• Crafted using traditional papyrus methods for an authentic surface and texture

*****NOTICE****
Changes implemented by the Ministry of Antiquities requires all papyrus to be inspected by an expert – what this means is that while your order will show as shipped, it may in fact be on hold at the Cairo airport pending inspection. For this reason we are not able to combine papyrus orders with anything else, i.e. papyrus and jewelry, or glassworks etc. If you are ordering something else in addition to the papyrus you must order it separately. We apologize for any delays that may occur, ultimately it is about the preservation of the history of Egypt.

Artist: Khedr

100% Hand Painted

Available Sizes (Approx)

1″ = 2.54 cm

100 x 50 cm (39″ x 20″)