Pharaoh Ay

Ay was the penultimate Pharaoh of Ancient Egypt's 18th dynasty.

He held the throne of Egypt for a brief four-year period from 1324 – 1320 BC or 1327 – 1323 BC, depending on which time chronology is followed.

He was a close advisor to Pharaohs who preceded him but was best known as the advisor to the boy king Tutankhamun.

Tutankhamun's died at just 18, without producing an heir.  His chief advisor Ay was quick to step up to the breach despite the fact that Horemheb had been officially desinated as Tutankhamun's successor.

Horemheb was usurped in part by Ay marrying Ankhesenamun, the widow of Tutankhamun.  This legitimized his claim to the throne.

Ay ruled Egypt for only four years, after which Horemheb was finally declared King.
 

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Related artefacts

Tutankhamun's Ivory Senet Board, Sandstone relief showing Tutankhamun, Tutankhamun Mummy (found in KV62), The Stroll in the Garden, The Younger Lady mummy from KV35, Restoration Stela, Bust of Ramesses II, Ritual Figures of King Tut Hunting a Hippopotamus, Ritual Figures of King Tut Astride a Panther, Ibex-shaped Unguent Container From Tutankhamun's Tomb, Tutankhamun's Merit-Weret Ritual Bed, Tutankhamun's Ammut Ritual Bed, Tutankhamun's Menhit Ritual Bed, Anubis Shrine, Tutankhamun's Ritual Beds