Dendera light
A temple relief interpreted as a creation myth or ancient technology.
It depicts Harsomtus, sometimes syncretized with Ra, in the form of an upright snake emerging from a lotus flower attached to a barge, with the snake enclosed in an oval container called hn that may represent the womb of Nut. The surrounding hieroglyphic text indicates the scene references part of an Egyptian creation myth.
Quick Facts
- Temple
- Hathor temple at Dendera
- Deity depicted
- Harsomtus, sometimes syncretized with Ra
- Container interpretation
- may represent the womb of Nut
Facts from the source article.
Fringe interpretation
A fringe theory proposes that the reliefs depict Ancient Egyptian technology, based on visual similarity to modern devices such as the incandescent light bulb, cathode-ray tube, Geissler tube, and Crookes tube. Norman Lockyer's passing reference to a colleague's humorous suggestion that electric lamps would explain the absence of lampblack deposits in tombs has sometimes been forwarded as supporting this interpretation, though another explanation is the use of a system of mirrors. Proponents also cite a text about high poles covered with copper plates erected to break storms, but Bolko Stern explained in detail that the copper-covered tops of poles, which were lower than associated pylons, do not relate to electricity or lightning, noting no evidence of anything used to manipulate electricity had been found in Egypt and that this was a magical installation.
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