Egyptian scholars unveil face of 'Richest Man in History'

Published May 17th, 2024 - 03:51 GMT
Pharaoh Amenhotep III
A handout picture provided by Egypt's Supreme Council of Antiquities on March 7, 2014 shows a 3,500-year-old statue of the daughter of pharaoh Amenhotep III in the temple city of Luxor.\(Photo by SCA / AFP)

ALBAWABA - Egyptian archaeologists have recreated the face of Pharaoh Amenhotep III, who is renowned for his lavish reign and his reputation as one of the richest men in human history, in an innovative archeological project. 

With the use of cutting-edge methods and information extracted from a corpse, researchers have revealed a very different image of Amenhotep III than the ones often seen in monuments and historical documents. The rebuilt visage has a placid expression, suggesting a monarch who promoted a period of tranquility amid substantial economic success. 

According to Flinders University archaeologist Michael Habicht, Amenhotep III was perhaps the wealthiest person of all time during his reign—especially considering the circumstances of his period. 

Because there are so little skeletal remains preserved, it is difficult to determine the reason of Amenhotep III's demise. Nonetheless, historical accounts show that he ruled over Ancient Egypt during a time of unmatched prosperity and international clout. 

Under the direction of Brazilian artist Cicero Moraes, the skull of Amenhotep III was digitally reconstructed utilizing information from mummified bones and updated with information from contemporary volunteers to approximate facial traits. 



Moraes underlined the importance of this project, pointing out that the rebuilt face offers a unique window into Amenhotep III's look, casting fresh insight on prehistoric times. 

The rebuilt likeness's revelation sheds new light on the opulence and influence of Ancient Egypt's pharaonic dynasty while deepening our knowledge of one of history's most mysterious characters. 

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