Working on an archaeological dig can be hot, dirty, tiring ... and oh so worth it.
“I was able to experience what is like to be the first person to see an object that has been buried for more than 3.500 years” – Carlos Spottorno.
The Djehuty Project , a Spanish mission led by Dr. José Galán has been working at Dra Abu El-Naga on the West Bank at Luxor since 2002.
Djehuty was a high official during the reign of Queen Hatshepsut. As “overseer of works”, he was responsible for directing the craftsmen involved in the construction and decoration of shrines and temples all over Thebes, including two obelisks in Karnak. As “Overseer of the Treasury” he registered, among other things, the marvels that were brought from Punt in a triumphant trading mission in year 9 of Hatshepsut's reign..
His tomb, TT 11 (Theban Tomb Number 11), has been the epicentre of an ever-expanding investigation by Dr. Galán’s team, who have been responsible for a series of wonderful discoveries.
Carlos Spottorno spent time with the Djehuty Project team in 2004 and 2006, documenting their daily activities and findings.
Check out his terrific gallery at http://www.spottorno.com/web/djehuty-project
This photo shows Omar Farouk, unearthing a funerary mask.
© Carlos Spottorno