A joint Egyptian-International mission has announced the discovery of a pristine tomb belonging to a high-ranking official named Kheti, who held the title of 'Master of the Royal Fish-Ponds' during the 12th Dynasty. Located in the fertile Fayum Oasis, the tomb features vibrant wall paintings depicting the systematic cultivation of tilapia and catfish, highlighting the sophisticated aquaculture practiced by the Middle Kingdom elite to supplement the royal diet.
Inside the burial chamber, archaeologists found a rare set of ceremonial copper harpoons and woven flax fishing nets, perfectly preserved by the desert sands. The find provides an unprecedented look into the administrative management of Egypt’s natural resources and the specialized roles within the pharaonic bureaucracy. Dr. Mostafa Waziri noted that the reliefs also show the official overseeing the transport of live fish in large ceramic vats to the royal palace at Itj-tawy.