WHAT
When Tutankhamun’s tomb was discovered in 1922 by British explorer Howard Carter and financier Lord Carnarvon, it became an instant global sensation. Fascination for the boy king and the fact it was the only royal tomb found intact from ancient Egyptian times, has continued for the last century. Exhibitions around the world, most notably in 1972 and 2007, have drawn record crowds. After record-setting stops in Los Angeles and Paris, a new exhibition in London has just opened, part of a ten city global tour.
WHY
Produced by the Egyptian Ministry of Antiquities and IMG, and presented in London by Viking Cruises, “Tutankhamun: Treasures of the Golden Pharaoh” marks the centenary of the discovery, and features more than 150 original artefacts from the tomb – with 60 on their first visit outside Egypt.
HOW
“Tutankhamun: Treasures of the Golden Pharaoh” explores the meaning of the items in the royal tomb and the parallel storyline of its discovery against all odds. The pharaohs who succeeded Tutankhamun had almost managed to erase him from history, had Carter not persisted in his quest.
The ancient Egyptians believed that death was also a rebirth. Through nine immersive galleries (incorporating digital content, contextual material, audio and custom soundscapes), visitors will follow Tutankhamun’s passage into eternal life, discovering how his funeral objects were used on the journey.
WHEN
Unlike past tours, this exhibition’s focus is on interpreting the significance and meaning of the king’s burial items. What also marks this as a must-visit is that the historic treasures will return to Cairo once the exhibition is finished and will then be permanently housed with the full collection at the Grand Egyptian Museum, currently under construction. This museum will be situated near the Giza plateau and pyramids and will be a scientific, historical and archaeological study centre covering 3,000 years of ancient Egyptian history in 100,000 artefacts.
NEED TO KNOW:
“Tutankhamun: Treasures of the Golden Pharaoh,” presented by Viking Cruises is at Saatchi Gallery, Duke of York’s HQ, Kings Road, London until May 2, 2020. Tickets are on sale: www.tutankhamun-london.com
With thanks to Laboratoriorosso, Viterbo, Italy and IMG for images.