“The Story of Tutankhamun” is taken from the writings of Dr. David P. Silverman, exhibition curator, and the text of Dr. Zahi Hawass, as printed in Tutankhamun and the Golden Age of the Pharaohs, the companion book to the exhibition.	The Story of King Tut Ancient Egyptian Lifestyles
		Much of our understanding of Egyptian daily life is based on the paintings and reliefs that decorate high-status tombs, such as King Tutankhamun’s. Housing Most ancient Egyptians lived in houses made of mud brick; the very poor lived in one-room huts. While the majority of people lived in small villages, the New Kingdom saw the growth of larger towns, and even cities, with many-storied dwellings crowded together in streets. Many families occupied houses with several rooms, often equipped with shrines for the worship of gods and ancestors; larger houses could have bathrooms. Most houses were sparsely furnished, but the elite sat on chairs and ate from small tables. They slept on low-slung beds with their heads propped on high headrests. Food The ancient Egyptians had a rich and varied diet. They raised herds of goats, sheep, cattle, and other animals, and they brewed beer and made wine. They caught fish, migratory birds, and wild animals in the nearby river and marshes. Eggs and milk, along with cheese and yogurt, were also staples in the diet. Tutankhamun and the Elite Lifestyle The wealthy lived lives of luxury and privilege. Their clothing was of fine linen, and for festivals they wore wigs of human hair or flax. Men and women applied make-up to their eyes, lips, and cheeks. Anyone with money could commission expensive funerary goods for their afterlife. In Tutankhamun’s tomb we find numerous objects the young king might have used in daily life. The board game senet was probably a favorite pastime. A large number of unguent (ointment) vessels contained oils for his body. Numerous chests and boxes held his clothing and jewelry. Continue to Technology and Art. >>