Amenhotep I depicted in the 20th Dynasty tomb of Kynebu
New Kingdom, 20th Dynasty, reign of Ramses VIII, c. 1130–1129 B.C.
Tomb of Kynebu, Thebes.

A century or so after their deaths, both Amenhotep I and his mother Ahmose Nefertari became deified and were the subjects of a cult of recognition and worship within the Deir el-Medina and Theban region for approximately 400 years. Their image therefore appears in numerous stelae and tombs, despite not being the rulers of the period in which such likenesses were made.

The reason for their deified status and worship is not really known, however, it is thought it perhaps was due to Amenhotep I’s empathy and therefore help for the workers within the famous workers village of Deir el-Medina, where the cult of dedication towards the pair was heavily followed for centuries. title