Tutankhamun's Mask

Definition

Tutankhamun's Mask is a gold funerary mask of the young pharaoh Tutankhamun, which was discovered in his tomb in the Valley of the Kings in 1922. This exquisite artifact, made of gold and inlaid with precious stones, serves not only as a burial mask but also symbolizes the wealth and artistry of ancient Egyptian civilization while embodying the beliefs surrounding the afterlife and immortality.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Tutankhamun's Mask is approximately 54 centimeters tall and weighs about 11 kilograms, crafted mainly from gold.
2. The mask features a depiction of Tutankhamun with a nemes headdress, which is characteristic of pharaohs, along with intricate details like lapis lazuli eyes.
3. It was designed to ensure that the young king's spirit could recognize his body in the afterlife, reflecting Egyptian beliefs about death and rebirth.
4. The mask was part of a larger set of burial goods intended to accompany the pharaoh into the afterlife, showcasing the wealth and culture of ancient Egypt.
5. Tutankhamun's tomb was one of the most intact and well-preserved royal tombs ever found, providing significant insights into ancient Egyptian funerary practices.

Review Questions

• How does Tutankhamun's Mask illustrate the importance of art in ancient Egyptian funerary practices?
  • Tutankhamun's Mask exemplifies the critical role that art played in ancient Egyptian funerary practices by showcasing intricate craftsmanship and symbolic representation. The mask not only served as a beautiful object but also had functional purposes in aiding the deceased's recognition in the afterlife. Its detailed design reflects the beliefs and cultural values of ancient Egyptians regarding death, immortality, and the preservation of one's identity beyond life.
• In what ways does Tutankhamun's Mask reflect the religious beliefs surrounding the afterlife in ancient Egypt?
  • Tutankhamun's Mask embodies the ancient Egyptian religious beliefs that centered around the afterlife, particularly the notion that preserving one's identity was essential for survival beyond death. The mask includes symbols like the ankh, representing life, and features designed to aid Tutankhamun's recognition in the afterlife. By ensuring that his spirit could find its way back to his body, the mask illustrates how art was intertwined with spirituality in ancient Egypt.
• Evaluate the significance of Tutankhamun's Mask within the broader context of ancient Egyptian culture and its artistic traditions.
  • Tutankhamun's Mask holds immense significance within ancient Egyptian culture as it encapsulates both artistic tradition and religious belief. Its elaborate design and use of precious materials demonstrate not only the high skill level of artisans but also how art served practical purposes beyond aesthetics. This mask reflects broader themes in Egyptian culture, such as the value placed on immortality, wealth, and divine kingship, offering insights into how these elements were visually communicated through artistic expressions.

Related terms

Ankh: An ancient Egyptian symbol representing life and immortality, often associated with gods and the afterlife.

Ka: In ancient Egyptian belief, the spiritual essence or life force of a person that continues to exist after death, requiring sustenance and care.

Mummification:

The ancient Egyptian practice of preserving bodies for the afterlife, involving embalming and wrapping the deceased in linen.