Mitri, a figure from ancient Kemet, is known primarily from inscriptions found in the tombs of the late Middle Kingdom, particularly during the reign of Pharaoh Amenemhat II. He served as a scribe and is often depicted in a seated position, writing on a papyrus scroll, which illustrates the significant role scribes played in Kemet society.
Scribes like Mitri were highly respected and held essential positions, as they were responsible for record-keeping, administration, and communication in the vast bureaucracy of ancient Kemet. They documented everything from tax records and agricultural data to religious texts and literature. Their education was extensive, focusing on hieroglyphics, mathematics, and literature, which made them critical to the functioning of the state.
Mitri’s tomb, located in the necropolis of Lisht, features elaborate carvings and inscriptions that emphasize his status and contributions. His legacy, like that of other scribes, highlights the importance of literacy and administration in ancient Kemet civilization, demonstrating how such roles supported the economy, governance, and cultural continuity.
Statue of Metri as a Scribe
The statue depicts Metri, an overseer of the scribes during the 6th Dynasty, sitting in the traditional pose of scribes with his legs crossed. He spreads a roll of papyrus on his lap and holds it with his left hand. In his right hand he holds a pen.
The body of the statue is painted in a reddish brown. Metri has short, natural hair. Around Metri’s neck is a broad, multiple-strand necklace, with patches of the original color surviving ( light blue, green and white).
detail of the face of scribe Metri
The whites of his eyes are inlaid with opaque quartz and the pupils with rock crystal. His name and тιтles are written on a wooden pedestal on which the statue rests.
Seated statues with crossed legs are a widespread type of statues reserved for private individuals. They are found in all contexts (divine and funerary temples, sanctuaries, necropolises) and for individuals belonging to all hierarchical levels.
Statue depicts Metri, an overseer of the scribes during the 6th Dynasty, sitting in the traditional pose of scribes with his legs crossed.
Detail of statue of Metri as a scribe
Metri held many тιтles, among which were Nome Administrator, Priest of the Goddess Maat, the Greatest of the Tens of Upper Egypt, and the Close Counselor. There was another small standing figure beside him but it is now almost completely broken
Old Kingdom, 5th Dynasty, ca. 2498-2345 BC. From Saqqara necropolis. Now in the Grand Egyptian Museum. JE 93165
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