Room I - Epigraphic Artefacts

Room 1 - Epigraphic Artefacts
Source: museivaticani.va

Upon entering the room, one is immediately introduced to the world of ancient Egypt through the ornately decorated iron gate adorned with Nile plant motifs. The architecture of the room further enhances this experience, with its towering frame adorned with cyma moulding and two grand columns shaped like papyrus. These elements not only provide testament to the museum's initial nineteenth-century design, but also serve as significant evidence of the pharaonic era.
At the heart of the inaugural chamber, which is reserved for epigraphic relics, lies a statue of Ramesses II on his throne. The statue is fragmented, but still bears the engravings of the ruler's cartouches.

Upon entering, one can observe that the art pieces are hung in a chronological progression, beginning with the Old Kingdom to the left of the entrance. Within this exhibit, there are two false door funerary stelae that are particularly intriguing, both of which originate from the Old Kingdom era.
One of the wall fragments found at the site is composed of limestone and displays a depiction of a scene that takes place within a reed grove. This particular fragment was originally dated to the Old Kingdom, but recent analysis has revealed that it actually dates back to the period known as the "Saite Renaissance" (Dynasty XXVI). During this time, ancient models were revisited and reinterpreted. The fragment in question is believed to have originated from the well-known Theban Tomb 34 of Mentuemhat, which is located in the Assasif area of West Thebes and is considered one of the largest tombs in the region.

Within the room, there is an impressive and captivating commemorative stele. The stele depicts Queen Hatshepsut (who reigned during Dynasty XVIII) along with her nephew, who would later become Thutmose III.
The focal point of the collection is the Naophorus statue of Udjahorresnet, which is portrayed wearing an intricately designed, long tunic. This statue is the most significant historical artifact in the collection, as it dates back to the time of the Persian invasion of Egypt by Cambyses in 525 B.C.
The room also houses inscriptions that originated from Egypt during the Christian era. These inscriptions are well-preserved and can be found to the right of the entrance, making it a fitting end to the itinerary.