An Exploratory Geophysical Survey at the Pyramid Complex of Senwosret III at Dahshur, Egypt, in Search of Boats

Authors: Creasman, Pearce Paul¹; Vining, Benjamin²; Koepnick, Samuel³; Doyle, Noreen³

Source: International Journal of Nautical Archaeology, Volume 38, Number 2, September 2009 , pp. 386-399(14)

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Abstract:

A geophysical survey at the pyramid complex of Senwosret III at Dahshur sought to determine the suitability of magnetometry and electromagnetic induction (EMI, or conductivity) for mapping the area where several ancient boat-burials were found in the 1890s. At least one boat reported at the time of excavation remains unaccounted for. Tests demonstrated that magnetometry does detect subsurface structures of stone, fired brick, and unfired brick under current site conditions. Data indicated areas of geological activity as well as unexcavated archaeological remains, though no definitive traces of boat burials. No excavation was undertaken but another survey season is planned.

Keywords: Dahshur boats; Dashur; Egypt; Middle Kingdom; remote sensing; Senwosret III

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1095-9270.2008.00214.x

Affiliations: 1: Nautical Archaeology Program, Department of Anthropology, Texas A&M University, Anthropology Building, College Station, TX 77843, USA 2: Department of Archaeology, Boston University, 675 Commonwealth Ave., Boston, MA 02215, USA 3: Institute of Maritime Research and Discovery, Ltd, 1245 Mall Drive, Richmond, VA 23235, USA

Publication date: 2009-09-01