Secondary epigraphy and interaction with transfigured dead: the case of Nikauizezi, Saqqara

This chapter presents an overview of so-called ‘secondary’ epigraphy (dipinti and graffiti) in the tomb chapel of an early sixth dynasty official named Nikauizezi in Saqqara, ranging from a rare painted hieroglyphic inscription (dipinto) recording the day and month of Nikauizezi’s burial, through to semi-hieratic scratched additions (graffiti) of names, perhaps left by Nikauizezi’s extended household. The chapter reflects on different modes of inscription-making that are sometimes identified as being ‘added’ or ‘secondary’ as belonging, instead, to the process of completing a decorated tomb-chapel, and how they are different to inscriptions which are clearly graffiti (sensu stricto). The latter may tentatively be considered an ancient response to a sacred environment—a dwelling-place for the transfigured dead—and mark the ongoing salience of the chapel through time.