Description
| ITEM | Ring of pharaoh Tutankhamen |
| MATERIAL | Yellow faience |
| CULTURE | Egyptian |
| PERIOD | New Kingdom, 1334 – 1325 B.C |
| DIMENSIONS | 17 mm x 23 mm |
| CONDITION | Good condition, repaired |
| PROVENANCE | Ex Museum Exhibiton of the Arbeitsgruppe für Biblische Archäologie, Germany (Deaccession) |
Tutankhamun, often referred to as King Tut, was a pharaoh of the 18th Dynasty who ruled Egypt from c. 1332–1323 BCE during the New Kingdom period. He ascended the throne as a child, around nine years old, and reigned for approximately ten years before his untimely death. His rule followed the religious upheaval of Akhenaten’s reign, during which Egypt had shifted to monotheistic worship of the sun god Aten. Under Tutankhamun, the traditional polytheistic beliefs and the worship of Amun were restored, signaling a return to the old religious and political order. His reign was relatively short and not particularly remarkable in terms of military or architectural achievements, but his legacy remains one of the most famous in Egyptian history.
Tutankhamun’s tomb (KV62), discovered almost intact by Howard Carter in 1922, is one of the most significant archaeological finds of all time. Unlike other royal burials that were looted in antiquity, Tutankhamun’s tomb contained an extraordinary collection of treasures, including his famous golden death mask, elaborate furniture, jewelry, and chariots. The discovery provided an unparalleled glimpse into the wealth and artistry of the 18th Dynasty. Despite the grandeur of his burial goods, evidence suggests that his tomb was hastily prepared, likely due to his sudden death around the age of 18 or 19. Studies of his mummy suggest that he may have suffered from various health issues, including a clubfoot and possible genetic disorders, leading to theories that he died from illness, infection, or an accident rather than assassination.
Tutankhamun’s historical significance lies largely in the modern era, as his tomb’s discovery reshaped our understanding of ancient Egypt and sparked a global fascination with Egyptology. His artifacts, particularly his golden mask, have become symbols of ancient Egyptian civilization. Although he was a relatively minor pharaoh compared to rulers like Ramses II or Thutmose III, the wealth and preservation of his tomb have made him one of the most famous figures of the ancient world. Today, many of his treasures are housed in the Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza, continuing to captivate audiences and researchers alike.
