Thesis title: Wooden funerary sculpture in ancient Egypt: a study of the assemblage from the tomb of Minhotep and Wepwawetemhat in Asyut
This doctoral research examines the construction techniques, materials and production dynamics of a group of wooden funerary sculptures from the Tomb of Minhotep at Asyut, dated to the early Twelfth Dynasty (1939–1875 BCE) and now housed in the Museo Egizio, Turin. Grounded in the methodological framework of cultural heritage conservation, the study addresses the long-standing imbalance in Egyptological scholarship, where stylistic analysis has often prevailed over systematic investigation of technical practices.
The research focuses on a coherent assemblage of twelve sculptures, including offering-bearers and boat models, seven of which were subjected to detailed archaeometric analysis. Through the integration of visual examination, conservation records, imaging techniques and targeted scientific analyses, the study reconstructs operative choices in wood selection, carving, assembly and pictorial finishing, with the aim of situating the artefacts within a plausible local production context.
The results demonstrate substantial formal and material consistency. Fig wood predominates as the structural material, while calcium-based ground layers and a restricted palette of ochres, carbon black and, in one case, Egyptian blue define a controlled chromatic repertoire. Recurrent solutions suggest consolidated workshop practices, and different craftsmen involved.
By combining technical examination, archival documentation and scientific data, the research also reassesses the post-excavation history of the assemblage, highlighting misplacements and reassemblies that have affected its current configuration. The study contributes to the technical history of Middle Kingdom wooden sculpture and proposes an integrated methodological model applicable to other museum-held assemblages.