New Protodynastic Serekhs from the Nile Delta: the Case of finds from Tell el-Farkha
New Protodynastic Serekhs from the Nile Delta: the Case of finds from Tell el-Farkha

Summary/Abstract: Two different serekhs on two different jars were discovered in a grave excavated in Tell el-Farkha in 2009. The grave was attributed on the grounds of a pottery analysis to the Naqada III B period, prior to the reign of Iry-Hor. The first serekh on a jar of Type II , not surmounted by a falcon, contained a sign considered as a schematic representation of the N’r sign. The second serekh, on a jar of Type III , was surmounted by a falcon. The narrow compartment, where the name was usually written, was left empty. Two HD-like signs were incised instead of the palacefaçade in the lower compartment. An additional HD-like sign was placed to the right of the serekh. The occurrence of the two types of jars with different serekhs in one grave brings up questions concerning the chronology of both the vessels and the serekhs on them. Several jars of both types have been attributed to the later period, but it should be considered whether the dating is correct and whether some of the relevant serekhs, assumed as belonging to Narmer, have been attributed properly. Another issue is whether these are names in both instances or whether in one case we are dealing with signs merely symbolizing royal authority.

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