Did the Ancient Egyptians Ride Donkeys? A Review of Textual and Iconographical Evidence

Abstract

Donkey riding is even less represented and mentioned in Ancient Egypt than horse riding. The rare examples give the impression that this practice—now quite widespread in modern Egypt—was despised and seen as typical of foreigners and weak people. Consequently, it is often asserted that healthy Egyptians would not ride donkeys and that those rare images showing them in this situation are not to be considered as realistic. But does this not lead to a downward cycle? Why not consider these few occurrences showing fit Egyptians on donkeys as evidence of such a practice? After reviewing the Pharaonic documents evoking donkey riding, the author leads a reflection on the reasons why this practice is so little represented.