Tutankhamun mask

The funerary mask of Tutankhamun, discovered in 1922 in the Valley of the Kings, is one of the most iconic artifacts of Ancient Egypt, crafted from solid gold and semiprecious stones.

About this subject

The mask of Tutankhamun was discovered by British archaeologist Howard Carter in November 1922 during the excavation of tomb KV62 in the Valley of the Kings, Egypt. The tomb was remarkably intact, allowing the preservation of thousands of objects, including the famous mask. The artifact rested on the head and shoulders of the mummy of the young pharaoh, who died at approximately 18 or 19 years of age, around 1324 BCE. The mask is composed of two layers of high-karat gold, weighing about 11 kg, and inlaid with lapis lazuli, obsidian, quartz, and turquoise. The eyes are made of quartz and obsidian, creating a vivid, lifelike effect. The false beard (kemaa) and the nemes (royal headcloth) are details that reinforce his royalty. Currently, the mask is on display at the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, though it was temporarily moved to the new National Museum of Egyptian Civilization in 2021. In 2014, restorers noticed that the beard had been broken and glued back improperly with epoxy, sparking international controversy. The piece represents the pinnacle of Egyptian goldsmithing and embodies the god Osiris, with whom the pharaoh identified in the afterlife.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where was Tutankhamun's mask found?

The mask was found in tomb KV62 in the Valley of the Kings, Egypt, in 1922 by Howard Carter.

What materials is the mask made of?

It is made of solid gold with inlays of lapis lazuli, obsidian, quartz, and turquoise.

Why is Tutankhamun's mask so famous?

Due to its exceptional preservation, abundance of gold and precious stones, and its status as an icon of Ancient Egypt.