Chief physician, dentist, and "mage" of the goddess Serket: a new discovery in the ancient necropolis (photos)

In the Egyptian necropolis of Saqqara, home to the oldest necropolis of the capital of the Ancient Kingdom, specifically Memphis, archaeologists have uncovered the mastaba of Teti Neb Fu, a court physician who served during the Sixth Dynasty under the reign of Pepi II. Despite ancient looting, the tomb offers valuable insights into ancient Egyptian medicine, social structures, and cultural practices, writes Heritage Daily.

Teti Neb Fu held numerous prestigious titles, including chief palace physician, chief dentist, as well as priest and "magician" of the goddess Serket. The interior of the tomb is adorned with intricate decorations, particularly carvings of funerary scenes, vividly painted false doors, and a stone sarcophagus engraved with the name and titles of Teti Neb Fu. The ceiling, painted red to mimic granite, along with engravings depicting furniture, offerings, and a detailed record of the physician's achievements, provide valuable insights into his past.

Dr. Philippe Collombier, head of the Franco-Swiss archaeological mission, noted that this discovery is part of a large-scale study of Saqqara, an area known for the tombs of officials from the Old Kingdom. During previous excavations, the team explored the mastaba of the minister Weni, famous for his detailed autobiography inscribed in his tomb at Abydos.

Despite signs of ancient looting, the walls of the tomb remain well-preserved, offering researchers a rare opportunity to study the daily life and cultural practices of Ancient Egypt during the Old Kingdom. This discovery highlights the importance of Saqqara as a historical and cultural treasure trove that still has the potential to unveil new mysteries of the Old Kingdom.

We also discussed 5 mummies of pharaohs that truly changed the history of Ancient Egypt.