A long line of porters

The second group of guests is approached by a long line of porters carrying offerings. The end of this long line stretches across the damaged region to the east wall’s connection.
The visitors are listed on the register above, under the deceased’s and his wife’s chairs. There are only ladies here, and they are likewise unnamed because the inscription has not been painted in the columns. Small maidservants look after the guests, presenting them with a goblet or a plate, or anointing them with pleasant oils. A big glass, most likely of wine, is in front of each of the ladies. Despite the fact that Egyptian writings speak with the value of moderation, during religious celebrations,

The true purpose was to become drunk. The soul could leave and go closer to the world of the afterlife if it reached this state.

However, Egyptian wine or beer did not contain as much alcohol, and to achieve the desired condition of detachment, it was required to use alternative methods, such as plants or plant extracts. The Egyptians were fascinated with botany, which included the early usage of hallucinogenic (but also hypnotic or sedative) substances obtained from certain plants, such as the lotus flower and seed, the mandrake, and the poppy. Could this be what was in the tiny containers that the maidservants brought to the banquets? The opportunity to “create a happy day” was thus maximised, with promises of sexual nature and procreation.

Object Details

A long line of porters

New Kingdom

Dynasty 18, Reigns of Amenhotep II

1427 to 1401 BC

Egypt, Luxor, Sheikh Abd el-Qurna

Tomb of Userhat, TT56

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