Bestattungsbrauchtum und Friedhofsstruktur im Asasif

This volume presents the results of excavations conducted in West Thebes (Luxor) by the Austrian Archaeological Institute in collaboration with the Institute for Egyptology of the University of Vienna, fieldwork that was begun in the fall of 1969 in the eastern part of Asasif. Because of the wealth of findings, the work was continued until 1977. Until now, the only publication about these excavations has been on the monumental tomb of Anch-Hor (TT 414) and the objects found there; most of the surrounding buildings and other excavation findings have remained unpublished. This study presents the diverse archaeological findings (stratigraphy, architecture, inventory of graves, etc.), describing both individual pieces and their respective context, and also offers an interpretation of their relationships in order to provide a general overview. Thus, a picture can be made of the multiple functions assumed by Asasif during the Late Period (8th–3rd century BCE), a picture that goes beyond mere descriptions of buildings or specific groups of objects. Through the contextual analysis of the findings, a fundamental new understanding has been won about the material and funerary culture of the Late Period (for example, the custom of burial ceramics). The work illustrates the historical development and social structure of the cemetery, its multiple uses and various functions, as well as its integration into the daily life of ancient Egypt.