Carpenter Making a Chair, Tomb of Rekhmire 1479 BC

This watercolor and tempera facsimile, created by Nina de Garis Davies, captures a scene from the Tomb of Rekhmire, showing a carpenter in ancient Egypt at work. The image details the process of chair making with simple tools, highlighting the inherent qualities of the wood being shaped. Look closely, and you'll see how the artisan uses a bow drill, a testament to early tool technology. This particular method of woodworking speaks volumes about the skill and labor involved in crafting everyday objects. The chair's design, though basic, reflects a culture where functionality and artistry were intertwined. What makes this image so compelling is the glimpse it offers into the social context of craft production. The carpenter, an essential figure, contributes directly to the economy. This work reminds us that even in ancient times, the value of skilled labor was crucial, blurring the lines between art and necessity.