Osorkon I

Osorkon I was the second king of the Twenty-second Dynasty, ruling Egypt during the Third Intermediate Period from the northern capital at Tanis. He succeeded his father, Shoshenq I, inheriting a realm newly unified under rulers of Libyan descent. Osorkon reigned for roughly thirty-five years, from about 922 BC to 887 BC, though his dates remain uncertain by around five years.

His rule was generally peaceful and prosperous, allowing the king to dedicate vast wealth to the temples of Egypt. Osorkon undertook significant construction projects, most notably at the great temple of the feline goddess Bastet at Bubastis, as well as additions to the temple complexes at Karnak and a temple at Atfih. His royal gifts of gold, silver, and precious stones to the gods are recorded in extensive temple inscriptions, which provide modern scholars with vital evidence of his reign alongside contemporary king lists and surviving architectural blocks.

Although Osorkon was buried in Tanis, his specific tomb has never been identified, and no mummy has been recovered. He was succeeded by Shoshenq II, continuing the succession of his powerful line.

Monuments

• Bubastis temple of Bastet
• Karnak additions
• Atfih temple

Explore further

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