Tutankhamun: The Boy King Who Captivated the World
Of all the pharaohs who ruled ancient Egypt, none is more universally recognized than Tutankhamun — the boy king whose short reign left almost no political legacy, yet whose golden tomb, discovered nearly intact in 1922, triggered a worldwide obsession with ancient Egypt that has never faded. The golden death mask of Tutankhamun is the most recognized artifact in human history.
Birth and Origins
Tutankhamun was born around 1341 BCE, most likely at Amarna, the revolutionary capital built by his father Akhenaten. DNA analysis in 2010 confirmed family relationships among several Amarna-era mummies. Originally named Tutankhaten (Living Image of the Aten), he changed his name to Tutankhamun (Living Image of Amun) when he restored Egypt's traditional gods. Read more about his father: King Akhenaten: Egypt's Revolutionary Pharaoh.
The Discovery of the Tomb
On November 4, 1922, Howard Carter's team uncovered a sealed staircase in the Valley of the Kings. When Carter made a hole in the doorway and Lord Carnarvon asked what he could see, Carter replied: "Yes, wonderful things." The tomb contained over 5,000 objects including the iconic golden death mask, the Golden Throne, and three nested coffins. Learn about the valley in Valley of the Kings Egypt: The Royal Necropolis of the Pharaohs.
The Treasures of Tutankhamun
The complete collection — all 5,000+ objects — is now at the Grand Egyptian Museum. Read more: The Grand Egyptian Museum: The World's Largest Archaeological Museum. The golden death mask features lapis lazuli, turquoise, and carnelian — learn about these gems in Egypt Gemstones: The Sacred Stones of the Pharaohs.
Honor the Golden King in Your Home
- Pharaoh Head Statue – Ebonized Mahogany — Hand-carved royal authority in deep striking black mahogany. $61.
- Egyptian Deity Pyramid Set – Pharaoh, Nefertiti and Bastet — The Pharaoh pyramid features a Tutankhamun mask. $52.
Full buying guide: Tutankhamun Bust: The Golden King in Your Space and Egyptian Pharaoh Statue: Royal Power as Art for Your Home.
Frequently Asked Questions
How old was Tutankhamun when he died?
He died at approximately 18–19 years of age, around 1323 BCE.
Who discovered Tutankhamun's tomb?
British archaeologist Howard Carter on November 4, 1922, funded by Lord Carnarvon.
What is the most famous object from Tutankhamun's tomb?
The golden death mask, now at the Grand Egyptian Museum, is the most recognized ancient artifact in the world.