British archaeologist and Egyptologist (1874–1939) whose 1922 discovery of the tomb of Tutankhamun in Egypt’s “Valley of the Kings” proved to be one of the signal events in the history of archaeology. Printed pamphlet, entitled “Report On The Tomb of Zeser-Ka-Ra Amenhetep I, Discovered by the Earl Of Carnarvon In 1914,” 8.75 x 11, 22 pages. Signed on the top of the first free end page, “With best wishes, Howard Carter 1916.” Toning to covers, some mild toning to inside pages, light overall handling wear, and a professional repair to lower right corner tip of front cover, otherwise fine condition.
This rare pamphlet carries a reprinted article originally written by Carter and published in the Journal of Egyptian Archaeology in July 1916. In the text, he tells of the discovery of a royal tomb during World War I—an otherwise archaeologically dry period. At the time, Carter was working with Lord Carnarvon, a collector of Egyptian artifacts, the archaeologist’s financial benefactor and the man who received top—and only—billing in this report. Although he would uncover six tombs in the Valley of Kings around this time, Carter’s true obsession was finding the tomb of Tutankhamun—a discovery that would become the most famous of his career. A rare autograph in any form, this example has particularly fine Egyptian association. In addition, this particular pamphlet is rarely encountered and this is the only signed copy we have encountered in 30 years. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RRAuction COA.
