Letter 12 ~ TUTANKHAMUN'S TOMB
Tutankhamun's tomb
The discovery of Tutankhamun's tomb in 1922 by British archaeologist Howard Carter is considered one of the most significant archaeological discoveries of the 20th century.
Tutankhamun was a relatively minor pharaoh who ruled Egypt for only 9 years in the 14th century BC, but his tomb was found to be one of the most intact and well-preserved royal tombs ever discovered. Carter had been working in the Valley of the Kings for over a decade when he received funding from British aristocrat Lord Carnarvon to continue his search for Tutankhamun's tomb. After years of excavation and many false leads, Carter finally discovered the tomb on November 4, 1922. The discovery caused a sensation in the international press and sparked a renewed interest in Egyptology around the world.
The tomb was filled with treasures, including jewellery, furniture, and ornate burial masks. The most famous discovery was the solid gold mask of Tutankhamun himself, which quickly became an iconic symbol of ancient Egypt. The tomb was so well-preserved that it gave archaeologists an unprecedented glimpse into the lives and beliefs of ancient Egyptians, and the discovery of the tomb was a major breakthrough in the field of Egyptology.
HOUSEWARMING PARTY
Housewarming parties have been a longstanding tradition that dates back centuries. In the 1920s, housewarming parties were particularly popular among the middle and upper classes. These gatherings were a way to celebrate a new home by welcoming friends and family and for the homeowners to show off their new space and receive compliments on their decorating choices.
Guests would often bring practical gifts for the new home, such as utensils, linen, plants, artwork or decorative items. In some areas it was also traditional for guests to bring firewood as a gift, especially during the colder months.
Overall, housewarming parties in the 1920s were a way to socialise, celebrate, and mark an important milestone in the homeowners' lives. Today, this tradition continues, with many people still hosting housewarming parties when they move into a new home.
WEDGWOOD
Wedgwood is a world-renowned brand that has been producing ceramics and pottery since the mid-18th century. Founded in 1759 by Josiah Wedgwood, the company has a long history of creating high-quality and innovative pieces of pottery and fine china that have become treasured possessions in households around the world.
Wedgwood's designs in the 1920s were a reflection of the era's aesthetic, with a focus on intricate and whimsical designs. One of the most notable designs from this period was the "Fairyland Lustre" series; a collection created by designer Daisy Makeig-Jones with iridescent finishes. Also popular during this period was the Art Deco style that often featured geometric shapes and bold colors. These were highly sought-after by consumers who wanted to incorporate the latest design trends into their homes.
Over the years, Wedgwood has produced a wide variety of ceramics, from tableware and dinner sets to decorative objects and figurines. The company has been recognised with numerous awards and accolades, including several royal warrants, and its products are highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts around the world.
Today, Wedgwood continues to produce stunning and innovative ceramics, cementing its place as one of the most iconic and respected brands in the industry.
The company's commitment to quality and innovation ensured that it remained a leader in the ceramics industry during this time
Sources for images and further reading
- "Tutankhamun." Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation
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Unknown. (1923). Howard Carter, Lord Carnarvon and Lady Evelyn Herbert at Tutankhamun's tomb [Photograph].
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"Housewarming Party." Wikipedia.
- "Wedgewood." Wikipedia.