Smithsonian Magazine · People & society

New Analysis Suggests Ancient Egyptian Queen Meretneith May Have Ruled as King

Researchers re-examined an old photo of a hieroglyphic inscription, using digital tools. The findings suggest Queen Meretneith, from Egypt's first dynasty, may have been an independent ruler equal to a king, not just a regent.

Egyptologists debated Meretneith's status. Her burial complex and an ancient list identifying her as "king's mother" showed importance, but direct evidence of sovereignty was lacking. The study analyzed serekhs (ruler symbols) on mud stoppers, claimed by archaeologist Walter B. Emery to depict both King Djer and Meretneith.

The original photo was poor quality, and the stoppers are lost. Researchers used a digital scan, enhancing the hieroglyphs to create a clearer replica.

The enhanced symbols match Meretneith's name and deity, using the primary mark of rulers. The researchers conclude the serekh likely belonged to Meretneith, indicating she was a female king.

Meretneith may have co-ruled with Djer and later acted as regent for her son Den. The study suggests she might have ruled alone during her 30-year career.

However, some Egyptologists remain skeptical. Eva-Maria Engel believes the enhanced image still only shows King Djer's name, not Meretneith's.

Other scholars noted Meretneith's significant royal privileges, with one calling her the first female pharaoh, though women were not typically considered in royal successions.

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