An iconographic investigation of the attributes and functions of Ancient Egyptian canine deities and their relation to death.

Abstract

The Ancient Egyptians have always had a strong connection with their animals. This can be seen in the depictions of their gods as well as in their way of writing in hieroglyphics, in which multiple animal figures are used. The Ancient Egyptians are also associated strongly with the afterlife and their interest in the deceased and funerary texts. Much of the Ancient Egyptian material culture that has been preserved has some connection to one of these aspects. Their funerary culture has been well-preserved thanks to the dry and arid conditions of the desert, while the Nile has almost completely destroyed the rest of their culture. This dissertation focuses on the relationship of the Ancient Egyptians with animals, specifically canines, in association with death and the afterlife. The focus is on the similarities between canines and the main canine deities: Anubis, Wepwawet, and Duamutef, listing the connections between the funerary, canine gods and the animals the Egyptians linked to them. It also looks at the hieroglyphic representation of both the gods and the canines. The animals in question are also briefly discussed, analysing their behaviour, and linking it to the information gathered on the canine deities.