Khopesh Sword of Tutankhamun
The khopesh sword of Tutankhamun is a single piece of bronze divided into three parts. The first part is the hilt, which is black. The second and third parts form the blade. The second part is straight, on the same level as the handle, and is engraved with the figure of a lotus flower with a long stem. The third part is bent to form a curve, and is engraved with a long stripe.
The khopesh sword found in Tutankhamun’s tomb is a particularly well-preserved and ornate example. The shape of this khopesh sword is the same as the sword held by the figure of the king, depicted on the perforated and gilded wood votive shield that was found in his tomb, and is considered to be ceremonial in purpose.
The khopesh was a unique and distinctive weapon with a curved blade that originated in the Bronze Age. It was primarily used as a slashing weapon, effective for close combat and infantry warfare.
The Khopesh is sickle-like shape with the cutting edge on the convex side of the blade that evolved from battle axes. A typical khopesh comes this length, though smaller examples also exist.
The inside curve of the weapon could be used to trap an opponent’s arm, or to pull an opponent’s shield out of the way.
The khopesh held significant cultural and symbolic value in ancient Egypt. It was not only a practical weapon but also a symbol of power and authority.
The discovery of Khopesh sword of Tutankhamun provided valuable insights into the weaponry and craftsmanship of ancient Egypt. It also highlighted the significance of the khopesh as a symbol of power and authority in the royal context.
Over time, the popularity and use of the khopesh declined as other weapons, such as the longsword, became more prevalent. However, during its time, the khopesh was an iconic weapon in ancient Egyptian warfare and an important part of their military history.
New Kingdom, 18th Dynasty, reign of Tutankhamun, ca. 1332-1323 BC. Medium: bronze and ebony. Dimensions: length: 59.5 cm, width: 2.3 cm, handle: length: 12.5 cm, width: 2.1 cm. From the Tomb of Tutankhamun (KV62), Valley of the Kings, Thebes. Now in the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, JE 61588
