Ancient Egyptian Games: A Fun Look at Pharaohs’ Pastimes
The Grand Egyptian Museum isn’t just about majestic statues and somber mummies. It also unveils a fascinating side of ancient Egyptian life: their games! This unique collection of over 100,000 artifacts showcases the intelligence and creativity of the ancient Egyptians, proving that leisure was a vital part of their daily existence. From the time of Tutankhamun to today, these games reveal surprising similarities to modern ones, bridging the past and present in a captivating display.
Senet: A Royal Journey Through Time
Leading the collection is the game of Senet, meaning “passing” in hieroglyphs. The most beautiful examples were discovered in the tomb of King Tutankhamun. Widely enjoyed across all social classes, it was even dubbed the “game of the kings.” The game board features thirty squares arranged in three rows, but the exact rules remain a mystery, adding to its intrigue. This mystery underscores the ingenuity and competitive spirit of the ancient Egyptians.
The Dancing Dwarfs: Life in Ivory
The “Dancing Dwarfs” game, discovered in the tomb of the child Habi, presents a unique scene: three ivory dwarfs connected by fine threads, appearing to dance. This early form of a marionette highlights the artistic flair and playful spirit that characterized ancient Egyptian society, even in children’s games.
The Winged Bird: Design and Wooden Charm
Another captivating piece is a wooden bird with movable wings, operated by delicate threads, showcasing the beauty of craftsmanship and design. This game wasn’t just for amusement; it also encouraged imagination and the development of motor skills, an idea that continues at the Children’s Museum within the Grand Egyptian Museum.
A Chess-Like Game: Royal Strategy
Also on display is an ivory game with ten small pins, half in the shape of dogs and the other half in the form of jackals, competing for a specific goal using dice. This game resembles modern chess, revealing an early understanding of strategy and planning in ancient Egyptian thought.
The Serpent: A Maze of Movement and Geometry
The collection concludes with the Serpent game, a circular, spiral-shaped board. Small balls are thrown toward its center to fall into a precise hole. This game demonstrates the Egyptians’ skill in geometry and precision, showcasing their innovative spirit in every aspect of life.
Creativity Beyond Temples
These five games are among the most appealing exhibits, offering a window into the daily lives of the ancient Egyptians, beyond temples and rituals. They highlight a human and fun side of their civilization. The ancient Egyptians demonstrated that play was a form of knowledge, alongside architecture, religion, art, and early education.
Source: Annahar
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