The Many Mysteries of Maya: Faith, Labor and Love for the Motherland–Part II
The sudden and unfortunate death of Tutankhamun created an unprecedented power vacuum that had to be filled swiftly, if order was to be maintained in the Egyptian state. It is probable that a tussle ensued between Horemheb and Aye as they battled for supremacy. The one key individual who went about his business as usual was Maya. He not only ensured that the boy-king’s tomb was well-stocked, but that the deceased ruler also received a proper burial, considering his intended sepulcher in the Western Valley was unfinished.
The hand of Ankhesenamun rests protectively upon the back of her husband and half-brother Pharaoh Tutankhamun in this statue at Luxor Temple. The next ruler, elderly King Aye, probably married the young queen to legitimize his claim to the throne.
