Chapter 11 Threads of Identity: Clothing from the Tomb of Tutankhamun

In: Rethinking Ancient Egypt
Author:
Elizabeth McGovern
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Type:
Chapter
Pages:
196–211
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.1163/9789004708402_012

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Abstract

The clothing and accessories from the tomb of Tutankhamun represent one of the greatest collections of archeological costume in history, consisting of pieces worn by the king during his lifetime and preserved in his tomb at the time of his death, as well as those made specifically for the burial. The collection ranges from loincloths and kilts, to hunting attire and priestly vestments, sandals, socks, and elaborately embellished tunics. There are garments fit for a young child and those for an adult, utilitarian pieces and elaborate ceremonial and leisure garments. This article demonstrates how the preservation of these pieces during Tutankhamun’s lifetime and their inclusion in the burial suggests that the costume worn by Egyptian kings may have been imbued with a level of sacredness due to its prolonged, intimate contact with the king’s physical body, particularly items worn during ritually charged events. It also addresses the use of costume as a form of non-verbal communication that relayed information about different facets of the king’s identity.

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Rethinking Ancient Egypt

Studies in Honor of Ann Macy Roth

Series:  Harvard Egyptological Studies, Volume: 22
Cover Rethinking Ancient Egypt
E-Book ISBN:
9789004708402
Publisher:
Brill
Print Publication Date:
24 Sep 2024
Front Matter
Part 1 New Interpretations
Part 2 Rethinking Methodologies
Part 3 New Evidence
Back Matter

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