Tutankhamun mask

The funerary mask of Tutankhamun, discovered in 1922 in the Valley of the Kings, is an icon of ancient Egypt and a masterpiece of goldsmithing.

About this subject

The mask of Tutankhamun was unearthed by British archaeologist Howard Carter on November 4, 1922, inside the pharaoh's sarcophagus in tomb KV62 in the Valley of the Kings, Egypt. Made of 11.2 kg of solid gold and inlaid with lapis lazuli, obsidian, turquoise, and other precious stones, the mask depicts the idealized face of the young pharaoh who reigned from 1332 to 1323 BCE. It covered the head and shoulders of the mummy, protecting the deceased in the afterlife according to Egyptian beliefs.

The mask measures 54 cm in height and 39 cm in width, featuring details such as the nemes (royal headdress) and a false beard, symbols of kingship. The eyes are made of obsidian and quartz, highlighted with lapis lazuli. An inscription on the back contains a spell from the Book of the Dead. Today, the mask is displayed at the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, being one of the most visited artifacts worldwide.

The discovery of Tutankhamun's tomb was a milestone in Egyptology, as it was one of the few royal tombs found nearly intact. The mask, in particular, became a universal symbol of Egyptian civilization. In 2014, it suffered accidental damage during a museum repair, but was restored. The craftsmanship precision and use of valuable materials reflect the power and wealth of ancient Egypt, even for a pharaoh with a short reign.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Tutankhamun mask?

It is a solid gold funerary mask that covered the face of Pharaoh Tutankhamun's mummy, discovered in 1922 in the Valley of the Kings, Egypt.

How much gold is in the mask?

The mask weighs 11.2 kg of solid gold, plus inlays of lapis lazuli, obsidian, turquoise and other precious stones.

Where is the Tutankhamun mask displayed?

It is currently at the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, on Tahrir Square, as one of the main attractions of the collection.