Inside King Tutankhamun's third and innermost coffin was the iconic funerary mask of Tutankhamun. This stunning artifact is one of the most famous treasures from ancient Egypt.
The Inner Sanctum: A Golden Coffin
The third coffin itself was a remarkable piece of ancient craftsmanship. It was crafted from solid gold and weighed an astonishing 296 pounds. This magnificent sarcophagus depicted Osiris, the ancient Egyptian god of the afterlife, with the ceremonial crook and flail crossed over his chest, symbolizing kingship and divine authority. This incredibly rich encasement served as the final resting place for the pharaoh's mummified remains before the mask was discovered.
Unveiling the Iconic Funerary Mask
Upon opening the heavy golden coffin, archaeologists were met with the breathtaking sight of Tutankhamun's funerary mask. This world-renowned death mask covered the head and shoulders of the pharaoh's mummy, preserving his likeness for eternity and preparing him for the journey to the afterlife.
The mask, made of solid gold inlaid with precious stones and colored glass, captures the idealized image of the young king. Its intricate details include:
- Lapis lazuli for the eyebrows and eye-liners.
- Quartz for the eyes, with obsidian pupils.
- Carnelian, feldspar, turquoise, and other stones for the broad collar and other decorative elements.
- A false beard, symbolizing divine kingship, which was originally attached but later re-attached during conservation efforts.
The discovery of the mask was a pivotal moment in archaeology, instantly becoming a symbol of ancient Egyptian civilization and the unparalleled wealth of the pharaohs. It provides invaluable insights into the religious beliefs, artistic mastery, and funerary practices of the New Kingdom period.
For more information on the famous mask and the discoveries within King Tut's tomb, you can explore resources like the History Channel.
