Bikheris

Bikheris, also referred to as Baka, is one of the most shadowy figures of the Fourth Dynasty. Conventional estimates place his reign around 2532 to 2530 BC, though dates from this era carry uncertainties of twenty-five years or more. Following the death of Khafre, royal succession may have passed through him before Menkaure assumed full control.

Egyptologists often associate Bikheris with the Unfinished Northern Pyramid at Zawyet el-Aryan, an immense open trench cut directly into bedrock intended for a substantial royal monument. Scholars know this ruler almost entirely through brief mentions on later king lists and fragmentary inscriptions found on limestone blocks at Zawyet el-Aryan. Because so little physical evidence survives, his exact place in the royal line remains debated.

Monuments

• Unfinished Northern Pyramid of Zawyet el-Aryan

Explore further

Try the name on the Cartouche Desk, or see where the reign falls on the timeline.