Like all ancient Egyptian temples, the Temple of Amen-Mut-Khonsu at Luxor is constructed using the post-and-lintel system.  The columns are carved in the form of many lotus and papyrus reeds bound together; the capitals are bell-shaped, similar to an opening flower bud.  Both are believed to have been painted.  In addition, papyrus, lotus, and palm leaves were carved on the walls.  Thus perishable forms have been made permanent in stone.  This choice of decorative subject may also be connected with vegetable fertility and the annual resurgence of life in the Nile Valley brought by the sun and river.  Archaeologists have established, for instance, that there was an annual celebration in which bundles of flowers were hung from the posts of the priests’ houses.