Howard Carter and Lord Carnarvon

Howard Carter and Lord Carnarvon

The Finding of King Tut’s Tomb

Howard Carter• First an artist then became an archaeologist.• He was the knowledge for the team.• Was determined to find King Tut’s tomb.

Lord Carnarvon• He provided the money for the team, but depended on

Carter’s knowledge.• Was bit by a mosquito and died.

Digging Timeline• Started digging in 1917 after WWI ended.• After the first year, they found nothing.• 1920 – The only discovery was 13 alabaster jars.• 1921 – There were no important discoveries. Workers were

bored and tired. Money was running out.• 1922 – The water boy finds the steps of King Tut’s tomb

Items Found in Tut’s Tomb• Thrones• Vases • Chariots

• Statues• Jewelry• Coffins of King Tut

Mummy’s Curse• Death Shall Come on Swift Wings to Him Who Disturbs the Peace of the King.• Lord Carnarvon died of a mosquito bite on his face. The mark on his face was

similar to the mark on King Tut’s face.• The lights in the city of Cairo go out moments before.• Lord Carnarvon’s dog dies at the exact time he dies.

• Two friends of Lord Carnarvon die after visiting the tomb.• 22 associated to Lord Carnarvon, Howard Carter or the dig die by 1929.

Strange coincidences due to media or a “curse”?

These photos were originally published in the May 1923 National Geographic magazine.

Alabaster Vases