Ancient Egyptian royal stele with bodybuilding provenance to feature at TEFAF New York
A limestone stele from the reign of Pharaoh Thutmose IV, dating to around 1401–1391 BC, will be a highlight at David Aaron's booth during TEFAF New York in May. The artifact, which once belonged to a co-founder of modern professional bodybuilding, shows the pharaoh adorned with the double crown and holding symbols of life and divine authority. Hieroglyphs on the stele record the king's throne name, Menkheperure, affirming its royal origin. Rich in religious iconography, this well-preserved monument served to legitimize Thutmose IV's rule and his connection to deities. Thutmose IV was the eighth ruler of Egypt's 18th Dynasty.
Key facts
- The stele is approximately 3,300 years old
- It dates to the reign of Pharaoh Thutmose IV (c. 1401–1391 BC)
- It was previously owned by a co-founder of modern professional bodybuilding
- It will be presented by David Aaron at TEFAF New York in May
- The stele is made of finely carved limestone
- It depicts Thutmose IV wearing the double crown of Upper and Lower Egypt
- The pharaoh holds an ankh and a was sceptre
- Hieroglyphs include the king's prenomen Menkheperure
Entities
Artists
- Thutmose IV
Institutions
- David Aaron
- TEFAF New York
Locations
- New York
- United States
- Egypt