Flourished Circa 1353-1322 B.C.E.
King's Physician, Vizier

Priest and Chamberlain. Little is known about Pentu's life, but by the reign of Amenhotep IV (Akhenaten) (circa 1353-1336 B.C.E.) this priest and physician had achieved the high status of Chief Servitor—the private doctor and chamberlain to the king. Despite his close proximity to the royal family, which earned him official praise from the king, as well as the placement of his picture on the walls of the temple to Aten, Pentu did not agree with the religious and social changes Akhenaten and his wife, Nefertiti, were instituting, especially the elimination of references to the god Amen and the placement of Aten in his place. Pentu appeared outwardly loyal to his king; yet, at the same time, he developed firm relationships with officials who opposed the changes.

Survivor. Pentu was one of only a...