Neferkare VII

Neferkare VII ruled during the early Ninth Dynasty, operating from the capital of Herakleopolis. His reign is estimated to have lasted around ten years, from approximately 2150 BC to 2140 BC, with dates uncertain by about forty years. He succeeded Khety I and was followed on the throne by Khety II.

Very little direct physical evidence survived from Neferkare's own administration. His rule coincided with ongoing instability and food shortages across the country, as local nomarchs held immense military and administrative sway. The most substantial historical insight into his era comes from the tomb autobiography of Ankhtifi, a powerful nomarch of Hierakonpolis and Mo'alla, who recorded regional famine and military campaigns while referencing this king's overlordship.

Scholars know Neferkare VII almost entirely from these regional inscriptions and damaged entries in ancient king lists. No monument, royal tomb or mummy has been discovered for him.

Monuments

• Tomb inscription of Ankhtifi

Explore further

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