The Mask of Tutankhamun

ancient Egypt · gold · pharaohs · archaeology

Royal treasure mask. This golden mask belonged to Tutankhamun, a young pharaoh who ruled Egypt around 1332 to 1323 BC. It was designed to protect his face and show his importance as a king.

Hidden for millennia. The mask stayed buried inside Tutankhamun's tomb in the Valley of the Kings for more than 3,000 years. Nobody touched it during all that time, which helped keep it in amazing condition.

Amazing discovery. British archaeologist Howard Carter found Tutankhamun's tomb in 1922, and the mask was one of the most spectacular treasures inside. It was so well preserved that people could still see the details of the pharaoh's face.

Pure gold craftsmanship. The mask is made of solid gold and covered with precious stones and colored glass. Ancient Egyptian artisans spent enormous time and skill carving and decorating it to look like the young king.

Museum treasure today. You can see this incredible mask at the Grand Egyptian Museum in Cairo, Egypt. Millions of people from around the world visit to view one of the greatest treasures ever found.