Ancient Egyptian jewellery : the design and manufacture of the pectorals of Tutankhamun

Abstract

This research was inspired by the rich examples of the treasure of the 18th Dynasty Pharaoh Tutankhamun who reigned during the New Kingdom period of Ancient Egypt. The content of this tomb was found by Howard Carter in Thebes in the Valley of the Kings. It is the richest and most famous treasure ever discovered. The researcher was drawn to this topic, being an artist and goldsmith herself, and was intrigued by the Design and Manufacture of the jewellery in this treasure. This study firstly examines the technology of mining, metallurgy and the techniques of the goldsmith as it was applied during the period in question. It also introduces the reader to the different materials that were used to create the jewellery. The pieces of jewellery that are used in this study, are introduced and each piece is categorised according to jewellery type and analysed to determine its iconographical meaning. This is necessary because the iconographical content plays a huge role in the motivation of the design. Once this is done, each design is analysed in terms of Design Principals and Design Elements to establish the style and trend of the period from which it dates. The jewels are also analysed to identify the manufacturing techniques that were used by the Ancient Egyptians.