now be referred to as Tutankhamun. It must be noted, just as Tut’s father destroyed many of the old religious artifacts of many Gods, so did the new reigning government destroy many of Akhenaten’s monotheistic artifacts and most notably the legacy of Pharaoh Akhenaten. Most likely Akhenaten was not rewarded with a burial fit for a king, but a burial which reflected the dislike for the pharaoh and his religion. In all likelihood, due to King Tut’s unforeseen and early demise, many artifacts were probably reused or taken from the cache of his father’s tomb. No doubt, Akhenaten’s possessions were used for the bulk of King Tut’s funerary mask - exclud- ing the ears and face. Incidentally, there is not much mention of Queen Nefernefruaten who changed her name back to Nefertiti after the third year of Tut’s reign. It has been said that the burial mask of King Tutankhamun is the most recognized piece of Egyptian artifacts. Hence, the funerary mask (or a repli- ca of it) has toured all over the world. People come from miles around to stare at this wonderful piece of Egyptian antiquity - but what is it that truly captivates the artifact seeker? Surely it is not just the impressive gold that it is made of, or the initial sense of craftsmanship that went into the making of the artifact. Perhaps it is something deeper. Without question, the sands of Egypt conceal many artifacts of the ancient Egyptian civilization. However, when one discovery of an artifact is made, it creates an unearthing of new speculations, ideas and breakthroughs with regard to the religion, politics, art and history of ancient Egypt. Arti- facts are an undeniable window into an ancient way of life and a mark in civilization. As we progress, objects that are uncovered can lead to research and possible explanation to everyday living and a different perspective of life in antiquity. To truly appreciate an ancient artifact such as the funerary mask of King Tutankhamun, an understanding and evaluation beneath the gold glitter of the mask should be performed; it is not enough just to be amazed at the face and the semiprecious stones secured in the mask. In light of this, a person should look beyond the face and discover the meaning behind the
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