Ancient Egypt: Amenhotep III
EGYPT'S HISTORY
Robert Guisepi, 1984
The Valley of the Nile
Amenhotep III (ruled 1390-1353 BC), the son of Thutmose IV, ascended to the throne at approximately 12 years of age. Early in his reign, he married Tiy, who became his queen. Unlike earlier royal tutors, Tiy's father was a commander of the chariotry, and through this connection, the royal family became more directly influenced by the military.
In his fifth regnal year, Amenhotep III claimed a victory over Cushite rebels, although the Viceroy of Cush (southern Nubia) likely led the actual military campaign. This military expedition may have extended farther south than any previous Egyptian campaign, reaching the Butana region west of the 'Atbarah River. Temples built by Amenhotep III in Upper Nubia, between the Second and Third Cataracts, attest to the region's importance during his reign.
Peace and Diplomacy
Peaceful relations prevailed with Asia, where Egypt successfully maintained control over its vassals. A commemorative scarab from Amenhotep III's 10th year celebrates the arrival of Mitannian princess Gilukhepa and her entourage of 317 women, further cementing Egypt's diplomatic ties through marriage. Later, another Mitannian princess joined his harem. During his final illness, the Hurrian goddess Ishtar of Nineveh was also sent to aid him.
Administrative Changes
During his reign, military men rose to high posts in the civil administration, displacing older bureaucratic families and the inheritance of office. One of the most influential figures was Amenhotep, son of Hapu, an aged scribe and commander of elite troops, whose reputation as a sage lasted well into the Ptolemaic period.
Building Projects
Amenhotep III was a prolific builder, especially in the Theban region. At Karnak, he erected the massive third pylon, and at Luxor, he dedicated a new temple to Amon. His mortuary temple in western Thebes was unmatched in size, though only the famous Colossi of Memnon remain as testimony to its grandeur. He also built a vast harbor and palace complex nearby.
In these public works, colossal statues were placed as objects of veneration, where people could appeal to the king’s ka, representing the transcendent aspect of kingship. Statues of Amenhotep, son of Hapu, were positioned in Karnak to act as intermediaries between the people and the gods.
Art and Culture
High-ranking officials from Lower Egypt played a significant role in Theban society, constructing elaborately decorated tombs. These tombs exhibit an eclectic style, with scenes inspired by Old Kingdom reliefs. The art of this period, especially the revolutionary art of the succeeding Amarna period, may have been a reaction to the studied perfection seen in Theban art.
Amenhotep III's reign also saw the earliest preserved significant New Kingdom monuments from Memphis. He celebrated the Sed festivals, ritual renewal ceremonies, in his 30th year of rule at his Theban palace, in keeping with ancient traditions. Queen Tiy, who held a much more prominent role than previous queens, participated in these ceremonies.
Decline and Succession
In his later years, Amenhotep III's health deteriorated. Evidence from his mummy and informal representations from the Amarna period show that he was obese at the time of his death in his 38th regnal year. He was succeeded by his son Amenhotep IV (ruled 1353-1336 BC), who later became one of the most controversial kings of Egypt.
