Figure
Imhotep
High official under Djoser
c. 2667 BCE
Lived under Djoser; his lifespan is unknown.
Biography
His name and titles appear on the base of a statue of King Djoser from the Step Pyramid complex. Later tradition credits him with designing the pyramid, and some two thousand years later he was worshipped in Egypt as a god of wisdom and medicine.
Key facts
Certainty: Established
Imhotep’s name and titles are carved on the base of a statue of Djoser found in the Step Pyramid complex.
- Mark Lehner (1997) “The Complete Pyramids” Thames & Hudson, London
- Ian Shaw (ed.) (2000) “The Oxford History of Ancient Egypt” Oxford University Press
Certainty: Probable
Attributing the Step Pyramid’s design to Imhotep rests mainly on later tradition.
Scholarly note: Contemporary inscriptions confirm his high standing, not specifically his role as architect.
- Mark Lehner (1997) “The Complete Pyramids” Thames & Hudson, London
- Ian Shaw (ed.) (2000) “The Oxford History of Ancient Egypt” Oxford University Press