Can you answer these questions about your artefact? If you can then you can use this artefact! If you can’t, it might be time to pick something else.
Ancient civilisation studied -Ancient Egypt
Significant Person -Tutankhamen
Societal group - Pharaoh/ King/ Men
Artefact chosen - Mask
Does it help show you something about an important person? (someone famous, made changes or important at the time?)
Yes, the mask is believed to be a representation of Tutankhamen, an important pharaoh in Ancient Egypt.
Yes, the mask is believed to be a representation of Tutankhamen, an important pharaoh in Ancient Egypt, but how does it represent him and why is it important ?
The Mask of Tutankhamen is made of solid gold, inlaid with semi-precious stones, and weighs about 24 pounds. It served as the covering of the head and shoulders of his mummified body and was found in his tomb in 1922 by archaeologist Howard Carter.
The mask is widely considered one of the most significant and beautiful examples of ancient Egyptian art. It represents Tutankhamen's idealized portrait, featuring him wearing nemes, the striped headdress with a cobra at the front, and a beard. It also features a wide collar flanked by falcon-headed images of the god Horus and the goddess Nekhbet.
As one of the few remaining artifacts of Tutankhamen's reign, the mask has played an essential role in revealing the mystery of ancient Egyptian life and culture. It shows us how ancient Egyptians honored their Pharaohs and significant figures with exquisite artistry and craftsmanship that has stood the test of time.
How does Tutankhamun help show you something about the role of a group of people in your society (kings, queens, pharaohs, men, women, etc.)?
Tutankhamun's role as a Pharaoh in Ancient Egypt provides insights into the social structure of the civilization, particularly the elevated status of kings and the significance of the pharaoh's role in Egyptian life.
Pharaohs were seen as divine beings and were responsible for maintaining order in the universe, overseeing the country's religious activities, and protecting the people. Tutankhamun's reign, which lasted only ten years, was significant in that it came at a time when the Kingdom was in flux. He is believed to have been a figurehead pharaoh, with his advisors and consort wielding considerable power.
The ancient Egyptians believed in powerful gods, and the Pharaoh was considered a god-king, with divine authority over the people and the land. Tutankhamun's role, thus, reflects a highly organized and hierarchical society, where power and authority were centralized in one entity, the Pharaoh.
In summary, Tutankhamun's rule as a Pharaoh helps us understand the ancient Egyptian social structure and beliefs in the divine power of the pharaohs. His legacy provides insights into the Egyptian tradition of handing down power from one ruler to the next, the importance of upholding order, and the role of the pharaoh as the protector and ruler of the land and its people.