Senenmut

Egyptian steward

Written by

The Information Architects of Encyclopaedia Britannica

Last updated

July 13, 2026

Quick Summary

Senenmut was a highly influential Egyptian steward who served during the reign of Pharaoh Hatshepsut in the New Kingdom period (c. 1539–1075 BCE). He was instrumental in the design and construction of Hatshepsut's magnificent mortuary temple at Dayr al-Baḥrī, a remarkable architectural achievement featuring terraces, colonnades, and reliefs depicting significant events like the expedition to Punt. Senenmut's prominent role in royal construction projects highlights his importance and favor with the pharaoh.1

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

5 Britannica Sources

Ask Britannica AI about this topic

Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.

Egyptian art and architecture
Innovation, decline, and revival from the New Kingdom to the Late period
The sculptures of Senenmut, steward of Hatshepsut, exemplify the development. At least 23 votive statues (some fragmentary) of this royal favorite are known, exhibiting many different forms.
Read More
The sculptures of Senenmut, steward of Hatshepsut, exemplify the development. At least 23 votive statues (some fragmentary) of this royal favorite are known, exhibiting many different forms.
Read More

Thebes
Archaeology of the Thebes
…Mentuhotep II, the queen’s architect Senenmut designed (c. 1473) a series of colonnades and courts on three levels. The approach from the valley led through an avenue of sphinxes, and in the forecourt was a garden planted with trees and vines. On either side of the sloping ramp leading to…
Read More
…Mentuhotep II, the queen’s architect Senenmut designed (c. 1473) a series of colonnades and courts on three levels. The approach from the valley led through an avenue of sphinxes, and in the forecourt was a garden planted with trees and vines. On either side of the sloping ramp leading to…
Read More