Beginning a New Season at TT 16 (2026)

The University of Memphis Mission to Theban Tomb 16 pictured above at the start of the 2026 season (right to left, font: Rais Ali, Dr. Suzanne Onstine, Ellen Nikirk, Allam, MoTA Inspector, Safa Badawi, Branson Anderson; back row: Ashraf "Hassan", Isa, Mohamed, Mahmoud, Sherif, Abdul Hadi).

The work continues this season in TT16, the tomb of Panehsy and his wife, Tarenu, located on the West Bank of the Nile at Dra Abu el-Naga. The rock-cut tomb dates to 19th Dynasty and was constructed during the reign of Rameses II (r. 1279-1213 BC), it is a highly decorated tomb which highlights the various roles of its named occupants and was frequently reused in later periods. Of particular importance to Panehsy was his role as Prophet of the Forecourt of Amenhotep I. Ahmose-Nefertari is also given prominence in the tomb perhaps because of the mortuary temple to the both very near by. The deified royalty are represented frequently throughout the tomb, with Panehsy and Tarenu making offerings to them. Tarenu is also represented in her role as chantress to Amun alongside her husband.

Starting the New 2026 Season at TT 16

On January 3rd, our field season began with cleaning of the new extension, which extends to the south-west of the main tomb chapel. Material remains were found within layers, which had been disturbed by modern looting. Analysis of these remains is currently being conducted by team members. Cleaning of the new extension will continue as this week progresses. We are looking forward to the arrival of our conservator Erico Peinter on January 15, after which the conservation of the painted plaster in the tomb will resume. The Sphinx Foundation for Archaeological Research has provided us with two new tents to use for the season, which will be available to all partnering missions working in Egypt. These tents will be used by the team for the registration of artifacts, specialized analysis of materials, and other activities associated with fieldwork.

The new tents provided by SFAR.

We would like to thank the Department of History at the University of Memphis, The Sphinx Foundation for Archaeological Research (SFAR), and the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities for their continued crucial support for this important work preserving Egypt’s history and cultural legacy. Follow us on Instagram and via SFAR's social media posts.

Blog post prepared by Dr. Suzanne Onstine, Branson Anderson, and Ellen Nikirk; images courtesy of the University of Memphis Mission to TT 16. Read more about this project and others like it via the Fieldwork / Projects tab.