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 Common Questions about King Tutankhamun
For fun facts about Egypt’s most celebrated ruler, check in with us regularly as we count down to the opening of Tutankhamun and the Golden Age of the Pharaohs. Every two weeks, we’ll answer another of your 8 most frequently asked questions about the intriguing “boy-king” as we await his arrival in Chicago!
5) Was King Tutankhamun a sickly Pharaoh?
Archaeological evidence says maybe, but forensic evidence says no.
Archaeological Evidence: Because King Tutankhamun was only around age 19 when he died, sometimes people think of him as weak, sickly child. Tomb paintings of the king often show him seated when normally he would have been standing (such as while hunting birds). In addition, he was buried with 130 walking sticks and staffs, many of which clearly had been used in life.
Forensic Evidence: However, forensic evidence does not seem to support the theory of a sickly King Tut. CT scans of Tutankhamun’s body show that the king’s overall health was quite good, as least judging by his bones. Although of slender build, the king shows no signs of malnutrition or chronic disease.
Forensic specialist theorize that the mostly likely cause of his death at such a young age seems to be infection, introduced by a compound fracture of the thighbone. Such fractures are not uncommon for men of his age—especially considering the amount of chariot racing, hunting, and warfare he may have participated in.
To learn the details of this story, check out Examining the Mummy.
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