Tutankhamun’s Trumpet: Ancient Egypt in 100 Objects from the Boy King’s Tomb

Egyptologist Wilkinson (A World Beneath the Sands) brings ancient Egypt to life with a detailed examination of 100 items from Tutankhamun’s tomb. Timed to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Howard Carter’s excavation of the tomb, which ignited global interest in ancient Egyptian antiquities, art, architecture, and history, the book divides the objects into 10 categories covering life in the Nile Valley, including geography, monarchy, piety, and mortality. Ranging from the mundane to the extraordinary, the items include throw sticks, a weapon associated with ancient Libyans; a piece of jewelry made from natural silica glass found in Egypt’s Western Desert; leather and beadwork sandals and shaving equipment; and a painted box depicting Tutankhamun hunting gazelles and fighting against the Syrians and the Nubians. The abundant resources of the rich Nile Valley are prominently displayed, as are exotic items imported from distant lands. Wilkinson’s expert discussions touch on each item’s significance to Tutankhamun and what they reveal about daily life in ancient Egypt. For example, a pair of ivory clappers—used to ward off evil spirits in birthing pavilions—highlights the dangers of childbirth for elite and ordinary Egyptians. Accentuated with black-and-white and color illustrations, this is an informative and immersive survey of the ancient world. Illus. (Nov.)