Sandals of Tutankhamun

King Tutankhamun would symbolically trample on his enemies when he wore his sandals. This unique sandals are also adorned on the top and bottom by the nine bows, symbols of the traditional enemies of Egypt.

While the exact number of sandals is unclear, at least 80 samples were discovered in the virtually intact tomb of Tutankhamun, included in order to accompany him into the afterlife.

This pair of sandals is made of leather and has depictions of enemies on the soles. Four human figures portraying Asiatic and African neighbors, who were the traditional enemies of Egypt, are shown. The men are depicted as prisoners, lying prostrate with their arms bound behind their backs.

Related Walking stick of Tutankhamun

Although some sandals were discovered in surprisingly good condition, all that was left of others were small fragments of foot straps. The best preserved were the gold sandals discovered on the feet of the mummy of king Tutankhamun.

The ancient Egyptians usually went barefoot, but on some occasions kings wore very elaborately decorated sandals. Some sandals were gilded. The sandals were tied with two thongs and their tips pointed upward.

Related: Headrest of Tutankhamun

New Kingdom, late 18th Dynasty, reign of Tutankhamun, ca. 1332-1323 BC. From the Tomb of Tutankhamun (KV62), Valley of the Kings, West Thebes. Now in the Egyptian Museum, Cairo. JE 62685