As Harkhuf, a high official of Pharaoh Pepi II (2246–2152 B.C.), was returning to Egypt from the region of modern Ethiopia, he sent word ahead to the king. Eight-year-old Pepi showed no interest in the treasures of ebony, ivory or incense Harkhuf had for him. But the boy was extremely excited to hear about the “actual dancing dwarf” that Harkhuf was bringing back to perform in a temple. Pepi’s letter, inscribed in Harkhuf’s tomb, cautions his official to be careful not to allow the Pygmy to fall in the Nile and drown. The ancient Egyptians adored the Pygmies for […]
