The Scribe’s Outfit 𓏟 in the Deir el-Medina Pseudo-script

Shapes and Uses

Abstract

The sign for ‘scribe’ that occurs among identity marks on Deir el-Medina ostraca and other artefacts from the Ramesside Period (ca. 1290–1070 BCE) shows a remarkable graphic diversity. Its basic forms were inspired by hieroglyphic writing on the one hand, and by cursive (hieratic) writing on the other, and both forms appear to have enjoyed equal popularity in similar contexts. In addition to the information it provides on the reception of hieroglyphic and hieratic writing among semi-literate administrators, the sign is evidence for the existence of one ‘senior scribe’ at Deir el-Medina.