Sunday, September 04, 2011

Sad News: Jac Janssen

My sincere thanks to Jan Picton from the Friends of the Petrie Museum for letting members know that Jac Janssen has passed away. Jac Janssen did some pioneering research into Deir el-Medineh and made some very welcome suggestions about how the Egytpian economy was structured. Here is Jan's email:

It is with great sadness that we report the death of Professor Jac J Janssen on 23rd August at the age of 89.

Jac's knowledge of the economics of Ramesside Egypt and the lives of the people of Deir el-Medina remain unparalleled. His many publications, both alone and with Rosalind, demonstrate the range of this interests from commodity prices to children's games.

Jac did not suffer fools gladly but he was a kind man, a good friend, and very generous with his knowledge which he shared gladly with colleagues and generations of students.

After his retirement from his teaching post as Professor of Egyptology at Leiden University from 1979 to 1983 Jac moved to London. His marriage to Rosalind Hall, then assistant curator at the Petrie Museum, brought a lasting partnership in life and work with a number of shared publications. Anyone who met Jac and Rosalind recognised the closeness of their relationship. We extend our deepest sympathy to Rosalind for her great loss.

The funeral service will take place at noon on Tuesday 6th September, at the Dutch Church, Austin Friars, London (Liverpool St/Moorgate Tube) followed by a reception.

Those planning to attend should notify Rosalind, or email me and I will forward the emails.

If you wish to write to Rosalind and don't have the address, please send c/o the Petrie Museum.

Best wishes
Jan


No comments: