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Overview
This ‘Tutankhamen's Treasures’ vase was manufactured by Royal Doulton, England, and imported by John Bates & Co, Ltd, Christchurch, for sale as a souvenir at the New Zealand and South Seas International Exhibition in Dunedin, November 1925 to May 1926.
The vase was one of many such objects made in the wake of the discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb by archaeologist Howard Carter in 1922. The discovery triggered a huge worldwide craze for Egyptian-themed objects, many of which were made through an Orientalist lens, and sometimes known as ‘Egyptomania’ or ‘Tutmania’. Cinema, fashion, jewellery, architecture and design were all influenced, particularly Art Deco style.
Tutankhamun (also known as King Tut, Tutankhamen, Tutankhamon, Tutankhaten) was an Egyptian pharoah / king who reigned from 1333-23 BCE. He was not considered a significant king, but his tomb in the Valley of the Kings was almost intact with over 5000 artefacts, including Tutakhamun’s golden mask. It was one of the most significant archaeological discoveries of the twentieth century.
This vase was part of a series of tableware and household wares made by Royal Doulton to commemorate the discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb. The series features Titanian glaze which used a titanium oxide resulting in a bluey colour. By purchasing such an object, the acquirer could participate in a global phenomenon and significant international historical event.
New Zealand and South Seas International Exhibition
The New Zealand and South Seas International Exhibition was promoted by the Otago Expansion League in response to the population and economic drift north. The exhibition attracted over 3.2 million visitors, more than double New Zealand’s total population at the time. It was laid out over 16 acres with seven pavilions linked by covered walkways, with a grand court of reflecting pools leading to a domed Festival Hall. There was an art gallery, a fernery (with a waterfall and streams), and an amusement area with rides and a ‘fun factory’.
A wide range of souvenirs were made from glass, crystal, ceramic, silverware and textiles. Many were made for practical use such as tableware and accessories, including this vase.