Tutankhamun and Ankhesenamun in the Royal Garden
Decorative print on papyrus support • Modern Egyptian souvenir workshop following traditional Amarna style iconography
Style & Movement
Neo-Egyptian / Tourist Art (Neo-Amarna Style)
Medium & Technique
Printed ink and gold-toned metallic foil with hand-painted colored washes on mass-produced papyrus sheet
Creation Period
Late 20th Century (circa 1970–1990)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 12 x 16 inches; vertical/portrait orientation on a rectangular sheet
Subject Description
A representation of the Pharaoh Tutankhamun seated on a throne being anointed or attended to by his wife, Queen Ankhesenamun. Above them is the Aten (sun disk) with rays ending in hands, a hallmark of Armarna period iconography. The scene features hieroglyphic cartouches and floral symbols.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good. Shows intentional 'aged' distressing common in tourist papyrus, with some minor fraying at the deckled edges.
Estimated Market Value
$20 - $50 USD
Auction Estimate
$10 - $30 USD
Provenance History
Likely purchased as a souvenir in Egypt or from a specialty importer; no specific museum or gallery labels present.
Art Historical Significance
Low. This is a contemporary artisan reproduction of an ancient scene, intended for decorative use rather than being an archaeological artifact. It illustrates the enduring popularity of Tutankhamun’s discovery and Egyptian revivalism in the global market.
Notable Features
Use of shimmering gold-tone details and a dark backing paper to highlight the translucency and grid-like texture of the papyrus fibers.
Condition Issues
Fraying of the edges (common for papyrus), slight surface rubbing of the gold foil, and minor darkening of the vegetable fibers.
Conservation Recommendations
Should be framed under UV-protective glass with acid-free mounting to prevent further oxidation of the fibers and fading of colors.