Nefeli Vasiou

 

The Royal Cemetery of Nuri: from the pyramids to the Shabti of Senkamanisken. Have we been ignoring Nubia?

 

Abstract: To the south of Egypt, in the region called Nubia in scholarly text, the Kingdom of Kush, from the 8th century BC to the 4th century AD, was interacting constantly with its neighbours. Even though it is often overlooked by researchers, who tend to focus more on ancient Egypt, it remained an important kingdom in the area. The recent acquisition of the Shabti of the Kushite King Senkamanisken by the Allard Pierson, the archaeological museum of the University of Amsterdam, functions as an opportunity to take a closer look at the once-thriving Kushite Kingdom and one of its most significant royal cemeteries: the Necropolis of Nuri. Even though both sides often found themselves in conflict, the impact of Egyptian culture on the Kingdom of Kush is undeniable, from objects to pyramids. But have we been ignoring the Kushite rulers in favour of their northern neighbours? 

 

Bio: Born in Athens, Greece, Nefeli Vasiou developed a strong affinity for museums and archaeological sites early on. She completed her BA in History & Archaeology, with a specialisation in Archaeology & History of Art at the University of Athens, during which she interned at the Herakleidon Museum and participated in excavations. Her Mediterranean and Balkan origins made her particularly interested in matters of complicated history and restitutions. Currently, she is pursuing a MA in Museum Studies at the University of Amsterdam with an interest in conflicted heritage.