Chapel of Maya: A Glimpse into Ancient Kemet (Ancient Egypt)

Maya was a prominent figure in ancient Kemet (Egypt), serving as both the Overseer of Works and Chief Treasurer during the reigns of the young Pharaoh Tutankhamun and the later Pharaoh Horemheb, around 1330 BCE. Originally hailing from Waset, which is modern-day Luxor, Maya played a crucial role at a time when Kemet was a powerful and influential civilization.

In 1906, his tomb chapel was unearthed by the Italian archaeologist Ernesto Schiaparelli in Deir el-Medina, an area inhabited by skilled artisans and laborers dedicated to building and decorating the magnificent royal tombs in the Valley of the Kings. The artwork within Maya’s chapel is nothing short of breathtaking, bursting with vibrant colors that seem to bring the ancient world back to life. These vivid images preserve the rich heritage of the Tanetjerians of the Nile Valley in an astonishingly realistic manner.

Unlike the often Eurocentric portrayals of ancient Egyptians with lighter skin tones, the vibrant reddish-brown hues seen in the chapel are a direct representation of the natural skin tones of the Nile Valley’s indigenous population. These figures are not just artistic representations but are emblematic of a flourishing Tanetjerian civilization that significantly shaped the cultural landscape of ancient Africa.

The chapel itself, discovered by Schiaparelli’s team, is an invaluable testament to the beauty and identity of the Nile Valley Africans. Constructed using mudbrick and adorned with plaster, the walls of Maya’s chapel were painted with a mixture of natural pigments sourced from minerals and plants. Some of the colors used included ochre for red and yellow shades, charcoal for black, limestone for white, and malachite to add vibrant blues and greens. These pigments were carefully blended with water and gum arabic to create rich, enduring colors that have stood the test of time, even if not in perfect condition today.

When the artwork was removed for preservation, a delicate process called “strappo” was employed by restorer Fabrizio Lucarini. This method involved adhering canvas to the painted surfaces to lift the plaster gently, ensuring that the artwork remained intact and preserved in remarkable condition for future generations.

Fun Facts

• Title: Chapel of Maya (TT338)
• Inventory Number: Suppl. 7910
• Material: Clay and plaster
• Dimensions: Approximately 145 cm x 185 cm x 225 cm
• Date: Circa 1353–1292 BCE
• Period: New Kingdom
• Dynasty: Eighteenth Dynasty
• Provenance: Luxor (Waset)
• Acquisition: Excavated by Ernesto Schiaparelli in 1905
• Museum Location: Floor 1 / Room 06 DEM / Showcase 11

Maya’s tomb chapel is an essential piece of history, providing insight into the complexity and beauty of ancient Kemet. It showcases artistic excellence and serves as a vivid reminder of the cultural richness and enduring legacy of one of Africa’s great civilizations. As we delve into these historical treasures, we learn about the past and honor the heritage that continues to shape our understanding of identity and culture.