Digging for History in an Ancient 'Nation of Black People'

Working on an archeological dig in what was once ancient Kemet, now known as the Arab Republic of Egypt, proved to be a life-changing experience.

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  Egypt, I'm Here

  In a recent trip to Egypt, Jonathan Pourzal volunteered with the South Asasif Conservation project. Take a look at a few photos of his experience and then read more about it as he excavates Egypt's black history and chases the past in the land of the Kemites.

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  On a Mission

  The second ASA Restoration Project mission team of summer 2010.

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  To Restore a Tomb

  Jonathan Pourzal assists two of the conservators to restore one of the columns in the tomb of Karakhamun.

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  Registering Tomb Remnants

  Each recovered fragment of the tomb must be "registered," which consists of taking detailed notes that include a fragment's pigmentation, condition, type of damage and much more.

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  Putting the Pieces Together

  Reconstructing the beautifully carved and painted walls and ceilings of the tomb is no easy task. It takes extensive detective work and craftsmanship.

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  Mastering Masonry

  Pourzal assists a master stonemason in manually cutting a limestone block to be inserted into a restored tomb column.

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  Finding Hidden Treasures

  Egyptian workers must sift through endless fragment piles of the tomb's limestone walls and ceilings.

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  Leading the Mission

  Pourzal with Anthony Browder, who led groups on both a study tour and an excavation this summer.

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  Facing Egypt

  Relief of Karakhamun on the wall of his tomb.

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  The Valley of the Nobles

  Intricate relief carvings in a tomb at the Valley of the Nobles in Luxor.

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  Limestone Heave

  Egyptian workers carry limestone blocks down a long ramp into the tomb.

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  Deep in the Tomb

  An overhead view of the tomb and the excavation process.

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  Hot Sun, Hard Work

  The master stonemason of the South Asasif Project manually chisels limestone blocks under the hot Egyptian sun.

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  Exploring the South Asasif Valley

  Anthony Browder leads a tour of the tombs of the South Asasif Valley.

 

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