GREAT DISCOVERY.

Taranaki Daily News, 2 December 1922, Page 5

GREAT DISCOVERY.

ANCIENT EGYPT LINK. TOMB OF A KING. WONDER FUL RELICS. By Telegraph.—Press Assn.—Copyright. Received Dec. 1, 5.5 p.m. London, Nov. 30. Details have been received of an important historical discovery in the Valley of Kings, the site of ancient Thebes, on the left bank of the Nile, near Luxor, where excavations have been proceeding for sixteen years. The discovery consists of a royal necropolis of the Theban Empire, situated directly 'below the tomb of Eameses VI. The seals of the tomb were found intact. The tomb contained three magnificent state coaches, gilt and exquisitely carved; a bed. beautifully carved, gilt and inlaid with ivory and precious stones; innumerable boxes of wonderful workmanship boro gilt inscriptions. Some, on which were painted him Ung scenes, contained royal robes handsomely embroidered, precious stones and golden sandals. Tutankhumon’s sta z te throne, was discovered, and is regarded as one of the most wonderful objects ever found. Another chamber contained many other beautiful articles of furniture -and decorative art. Most of the treasures are fairly well preserved. Others are in a precarious state, but it is hoped careful handling will preserve nearly all. No doubt the collection is part of Tutankhumen's funeral paraphernalia, which was removed from the original tombs to nscape the denrodations of thieves. ~'he seals and other precautions suggest that inspectors during the reign of Barneses IX. entered and reclosed the chambers after robber attacks. The discoveries will enormouslv increase the knowledge of ancient Egypt. There is still a third chamber to explore, where may bo found Tutankhumen’s actual tomb. Among other remains found are vast quantities nf provisions, including trussed ducks, hunches of venison, all packed in boxes, wreaths still looking evergreen, also rolls of papyrus, which are expected to yield a mass of information. Among tlm valuables is a heevilv gilt chair with portraits of the King and Queen, the encrusted with torquoise, cornelian, and lapis lazuei. Two life-sized bitumenised statuefl of the King are worked in gold. He is holding a golden stick and mace. The statues have handsome features, delicately carved hands, and glass beaddress richly studded with .gemfl There are also four chariots, the sides of which are studded with semi-precious stones.