Pseudo script in Gebel el Silsila : preliminary results of the epigraphic survey 2012

The recently increased scholarly interest in pseudo script has opened a somewhat new avenue within traditional Egyptological studies, offering a deeper insight into marking systems which traditionally are not included within the boundaries of established written languages and/or iconographical representation. Thus, in addition to studying the rich and well preserved demotic and Greek inscriptions on site, the Gebel el Silsila Epigraphic Survey Project 2012 will also document, categorise and analyse engraved marks – ‘quarry marks’ – in the ancient Egyptian quarry for the purpose of identifying who was responsible for making these stone cuttings and why. This paper will use the theme of the conference and cross the boundaries of previous academic generalisation – the identification of quarry marks with masons’ marks, stone cutters’ marks or identity marks as a whole. By exploring the quarry marks in detail within their textual context and by comparing the individual marks with contemporary signs found on other media, other options will be explored as well, including a more religious/superstitious significance that is emphasised in the late Ptolemaic and early Roman period during which they were created. This paper will present a general overview of the mission’s epigraphic survey 2012 and results achieved so far.