the Mastaba of Akhethotep and Ptahhotep (D64), a fascinating funerary complex located in the Saqqara necropolis near Djoser’s step pyramid. Here’s what we know:

1. Location and Discovery:

   • The mastaba is situated in the north-west part of Saqqara, to the west of Djoser’s step pyramid.
   • It was discovered by Mariette during excavations in 1850.
   • The only detailed documentation we have is from Norman de Garis Davies in the early 20th century.

2. Family and Ownership:

   • The mastaba served as the common burial site for two high commissioners from the end of the 5th Dynasty:
     • Vizier Akhethotep: A prominent official who held various titles, including Supreme judge and vizier, Priest of Ma’at, and High priest of the beautiful pyramid of Djed-Ka-ra.
     • Ptahhotep II: The son of Akhethotep, who shares ownership of the mastaba with his father.
     • The elder Ptahhotep (Ptahhotep I) has his own tomb designated as D62, with the entrance facing east.

3. Misleading Name:

   • Although the mastaba is commonly referred to as the “Tomb of Ptahhotep”, this is incorrect.
   • Initially, only the chapel of Ptahhotep was open to the public, leading to the misleading name.
   • The complex is hardly visible from orbital cameras due to its color blending with the surrounding desert sand.

4. Layout and Reconstruction:

   • A modern ramp provides access to a courtyard area with entrances to two mastabas.
   • The entrance to D64 (Akhethotep and Ptahhotep’s mastaba) is located at the southern end, facing north.
   • The complex also contains several smaller mastabas that haven’t survived as well as D62 and D64.

5. Decorated Areas:

   • Akhethotep’s portion of the mastaba is considerable and includes:
     • Entrance Corridor: Approximately 7 meters long, decorated on the east and west sides.
     • T-shaped Chapel: Covers the top 60-70% of the walls.
     • Other rooms and corridors remain practically blank.

6. Family Relationship:

   • Akhethotep (D64) was the son of Ptahhotep (D62).
   • Ptahhotep (D64) shares the mastaba with his father and is usually referred to as Ptahhotep II.
   • Akhethotep and Ptahhotep (sons of Ptahhotep II) are mentioned in D64.