Spectacles fit for a pharaoh

Spectacles fit for a pharaoh

A century ago to this day, Howard Carter opened the tomb of Tutenkhamun. When the dust cleared he saw a trove of ‘wonderful things’. A pair of gold sandals. A small army of servants (in figurine form). Canopic jars of the king's organs enshrined in an alabaster chest.

Written by

Henry Whaley

#Articles

The Eye of Horus, also known as the "Wadjet" or "Udjat," is an ancient Egyptian symbol associated with protection, healing, and royal power. Its origins are deeply rooted in Egyptian mythology, particularly in the story of Horus, the falcon-headed god who was one of the most important deities in the Egyptian pantheon. Its six constituent parts correspond to a human sense, underscoring the primacy of the eye and its connection to the human body as a whole.

The Eye of Horus was widely used in amulets, jewelry, and hieroglyphics. Egyptians believed that wearing or displaying the Eye of Horus could ward off evil spirits, protect the wearer from harm, and bring good fortune. It was also commonly used in funerary practices to ensure the safe passage of the deceased into the afterlife and to protect them in the world beyond.

Modern studies have shown forms of this ancient correspond to a cross section of the human brain, suggesting an ancient knowledge of anatomy and neurology heretofore unacknowledged.

The making process involved many handcrafted elements

To commemorate a century since Howard Carter opened the tomb of Tutenkhamun, we’ve made King Tut one more wonderful thing. A pair of spectacles for his mummified head. Complete with eyes of Horus and inlaid brass details.