The recent union of two fragments of a statue representing Ramses II, one of the most iconic pharaohs of ancient Egypt, marked a significant milestone in world archaeology. This colossal statue, which in its entirety would reach 7 meters highis a testimony to the majesty of the figure of Ramses II and the advances and challenges inherent to contemporary archaeological practice.
Approximately 96 years ago, the German archaeologist Günther Roeder The lower part of a statue was unearthed in Minya, located 240 kilometers south of Cairo: it would later be confirmed that it belonged to Ramses II. This discovery, at the ancient site of Khemnunow known as The Ashmuneinopened doors to questions that remained unanswered for almost a century.
The search for the upper half of this statue culminated recently when a joint archaeological mission between Egypt and USA announced its discovery in March 2024.
This discovery is not only relevant for physically completing the statue, but also for what it reveals about the ancient Egyptians’ creative process and conservation techniques. The top of the statue shows Ramses II with a double crown and a headdress adorned with a king cobra, symbols of his power and divinity. Most notably, traces of blue and yellow pigment on the surface of the statue, indicating what these magnificent works originally looked like.
International coordination has been key in this discovery. Yvona Trnka-Amrheinassistant professor of classics at the University of Colorado Boulder and co-leader of the excavation team, highlighted the uncertainty that accompanied the discovery: “One of the problems with Hermopolis is that it is close to the Nile. After the construction of the Aswan Low Dam , the water table became a big problem. There was no guarantee that the stone was fine. Sometimes sandstone is discovered, which is basically just weathered sand or limestone. “It could have just been a piece of rock.”
Added to this is the challenge of the water table, which became a significant problem after the construction of the Aswan Low Dam. This factor could have compromised the integrity of the statue and other archaeological finds in the region.
Basem GehadEgyptian co-leader of the project, has already proposed an initiative to join the two pieces of the statue, which would represent a milestone in archaeological exhibitions and in the historical understanding of the figure of Ramses II. For now it has not been achieved.
Ramses II began his dominion around the year 1279 BC and extended his rule until 1213 BC During his era, which encompasses impressive 66 years, Egypt experienced a period of unprecedented splendor and magnificence. It is considered the golden age of the empire.
Ramses The Great, as he is also called, was noted for being one of the most notable rulers in the extensive chronology of Ancient Egypt. He belonged to the 19th Dynasty of Egypt, in the New Kingdom.
Known for his extraordinary ability to lead on the battlefield, Ramses II led more than 15 military campaigns victorious. These clashes consolidated Egyptian power in strategic territories such as the Levant and Nubia, and also strengthened the kingdom’s influence and security.
However, his mark transcends his military skill. He left an enduring legacy on Egypt’s infrastructure. His ambition to enlarge his kingdom was manifested in the construction of grandiose cities, temples and monuments, which are scattered throughout the Nile valley. Among them, the imposing structures of the Karnak Temple and Abu Simbel.
His presence still lingers in the Egyptian landscape through hundreds of colossal statues erected in his honor, such as the one recently discovered. After a long life, which he reached about 90 years, the pharaoh finally rested in the Valley of the Kings. Years later, his mummy was found by explorers in what is known as the Royal Cache. Later, he transferred to National Museum of Egyptian Civilization in Cairo, where it is still on display.
