Osorkon II

Third Intermediate Period (1069–702 b.c.)

Dynasty XXII (874–850 b.c.)

Although it was the last flourish of the Twenty-second Dynasty, Osorkon II’s reign was a troubled one. Egypt was not as unified under the pharaoh’s power as it had once been, and regional factions exerted pressure on the royal house. The chief priest of Amun, Osorkon’s cousin Harsiese, declared himself king in the fourth year of Osorkon’s reign. This did not bestow more power upon the already powerful priest but it did limit the power of Osorkon, especially in the south.

Forced to deal with the growing power of Assyria, Osorkon II dedicated Egypt’s resources to supporting the Syro-Palestinian kingdoms, the last bastion of defense between the Nile Valley and the growing imperial appetite of Assyria. The Assyrians would eventually subdue the Palestinian kingdoms and turn their attention in a determined fashion toward conquering Egypt itself.

Related exhibit piece: Head of Osorkon II (catalog p. 106).

Related exhibit piece: Jubilee Relief of Osorkon II (catalog p. 168).