He lived during the Fifth Dynasty, around the 25th century BCE, and is best known for his work "The Maxims of Ptahhotep," a series of moral and ethical teachings aimed at guiding individuals in their personal and professional lives.

As vizier and a trusted advisor to the Pharaoh, Ptahhotep's insights reflect the values of wisdom, justice, and social harmony that were central to ancient Egyptian culture. His teachings, which emphasise the importance of humility, restraint, and the pursuit of knowledge, continue to resonate, offering timeless guidance on human conduct and interpersonal relationships.