Architectural models in the design and ritual practices of Graeco-Roman Egypt: continuity or innovation?

Several artefacts interpreted as architectural models have been identified in the scholarly liter- ature from across the Mediterranean basin. Only in a limited number of cases, however, have these objects been recognised as true architectural scale models, conceived for design presen- tation and for guiding the actual construction of the represented building. This paper analyses the main known examples, with a particular focus on how this practice was expressed in Egypt. The Egyptian tradition of producing models has very ancient roots, yet it reached its peak, and likely underwent several transformations, during the Graeco-Roman period. Through the exam- ination of three case studies, only partially published to date, this research seeks to reconstruct the development of this architectural practice. Finally, comparison with iconographic sources suggests that, once their practical function had been fulfilled, these models may have become part of the temple’s ritual equipment.