Temple Graffiti: Human Figures
Graffito T9. Human – Rider on Horse
This was once one of the most elaborate and carefully carved graffiti in the funerary temple. It is now unfortunately damaged by a horizontal band of erosion, undoubtedly from repeated flooding from the nearby wadi. The image is difficult to read at first glance, but it depicts a rider on a horse.
The rider is at top center, with head damaged, but twisted shoulders and the right elbow are clearly visible. A row of short, vertical lines extending up and to the right indicates the horse’s mane, and the horse’s muzzle is at the upper right. A broad bridle with geometric decoration extends from the muzzle back to the rider. Two of the horse’s forelegs and one back leg can be seen extending down. The horse’s head and legs are stylized, with the proportions not quite realistic, and the knee or ankle joints are not indicated in the legs. The legs are carved in bas relief and appear to have reddish pigment in them. The upper part of the graffito is incised.
Horses, both with and without riders, are represented in rock art and at other sites with graffiti. In the context of the temple at El-Kurru, we might assume that this image represents a pilgrim and his means of transportation.
- Kurru ID number: 599, 602
- Location: Wall face E04-2:5
- Dimensions (H × W): 30 × 22 cm