Tutankahmen Jewel

Egypt History - Egyptian Chapter Decoration

Background

The Tutankhamun Jewel refers to various precious artifacts and jewelry items discovered within the tomb of the ancient Egyptian pharaoh Tutankhamun (also spelled Tutankhamen or Tutankhamon). Here are some key aspects:

Discovery

The tomb of Tutankhamun, located in the Valley of the Kings near Luxor, Egypt, was discovered in 1922 by archaeologist Howard Carter and his team.
Among the treasures found within the tomb were numerous pieces of exquisite jewelry, including necklaces, bracelets, rings, pendants, and amulets.

Description and Design

The Tutankhamun Jewel collection includes items crafted from various precious materials such as gold, silver, precious stones (including turquoise, lapis lazuli, carnelian, and quartz), and glass.
These jewelry pieces were intricately designed and often featured religious symbols, mythological motifs, and protective amulets associated with ancient Egyptian beliefs and rituals.
Examples of Tutankhamun's jewelry include the famous gold death mask encrusted with precious stones, a gold pectoral depicting the god Ra-Horakhty, a golden collar necklace with falcon heads, and a pair of gold and glass sandals.

Symbolism and Meaning

The jewelry found in Tutankhamun's tomb served both practical and symbolic purposes. They were worn by the pharaoh in life and were also buried with him to accompany him into the afterlife.
Many of the motifs and symbols used in Tutankhamun's jewelry held religious significance and were intended to provide protection, guidance, and divine favor to the pharaoh in the afterlife.
For example, the depiction of deities such as Ra-Horakhty and Anubis symbolized the pharaoh's association with the gods and his divine kingship.

Historical Significance

Tutankhamun's jewelry is not only renowned for its beauty and craftsmanship but also for its historical and archaeological significance.
The discovery of the tomb of Tutankhamun and its treasures, including the jewelry, provided valuable insights into the art, culture, and religious beliefs of ancient Egypt during the New Kingdom period (circa 1550–1070 BCE).
Tutankhamun's tomb is particularly famous for being one of the few ancient Egyptian tombs found intact, offering a rare glimpse into the funerary practices and royal burial customs of ancient Egypt.

Legacy and Exhibition

The jewelry and other treasures from Tutankhamun's tomb have been exhibited in museums worldwide, captivating audiences with their beauty and historical significance.
The discovery of Tutankhamun's tomb sparked widespread interest in ancient Egyptology and archaeology, inspiring further research and exploration of ancient Egyptian sites and artifacts.

Tekities (lunar rock)