In 1976, the “Treasures of Tutankhamun” exhibit opened in the United States and began its tour of six different cities. The exhibit recreated archeologist Howard Carter’s 1922 discovery of King Tut’s tomb and displayed the many ancient Egyptian artifacts found within it—including King Tut’s sarcophagus and mummified body. The exhibit became the hottest ticket in town and each day museum patrons would arrive at dawn to wait in hours-long lines for their chance to enter the tomb. By the time the exhibit closed, eight million people, coast to coast, had attended. The widespread popularity ushered in the era of blockbuster museum exhibits and also made King Tut part of the cultural zeitgeist of the 1970’s. When I was little, I went to the show and I have a vivid memory of walking down the narrow hallway into the tomb, retracing the steps of Howard Carter. The theatricality and ancient wonders of the exhibit made a lasting impression on me and helped me become an artist.
The Metropolitan Museum of Art was responsible for the souvenirs sold at the exhibit, which ranged from affordable trinkets to high-end merchandising like jewelry. These 18k gold pendants are very rare, limited edition pieces that were sold as collector’s items at the exhibit. They represent the Egyptian gods and goddesses found within King Tut’s tomb and are rendered in 18k gold. The high karat gold has a glow that evokes timelessness and intrigue--fitting for these beautiful replicas of ancient wonders. We have a small collection of them available in our shop; each is sold separately.
This pendant depicts Ptah—the Egyptian god who was considered to have created the world and all living creatures. It was believed that by first imagining in his heart and then speaking the name of each being, he brought all of the universe into existence. As a creator himself, Ptah is the patron deity of artists and craftsman. He is depicted as a mummy with green skin (the color of vegetation and growth), a long beard, and holding a staff that represents the elements of power, life, and stability. He is also the deity of the capital of Egypt, Memphis.
The Ptah pendant measures 1 3/8” x 3/8” with a 4.5 x 5 mm bail. It weighs 7.7 grams.
The pendant is marked with 18K, 1976, MMA (for Metropolitan Museum of Art), and the copyright sign. I took the liberty of opening up the bail to accommodate the larger chains worn today. Other than that, the pendant is completely original.
The pendant is pictured alongside Vintage 1976 MMA King Tut 18K Gold
Wadjet,
Sobek, and
Hathor pendants, also available in our shop.
