# Howard Carter

> British egyptologist (1874–1939)

**Wikidata**: [Q133682](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q133682)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Howard_Carter)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/howard-carter

## Summary
Howard Carter was a British Egyptologist (1874–1939) best known for discovering the intact tomb of Tutankhamun in 1922. His work significantly advanced the field of Egyptology and brought global attention to ancient Egyptian archaeology.

## Biography
- Born: 9 May 1874, United Kingdom
- Nationality: British
- Education: Largely self-taught; trained in art and archaeology through fieldwork and mentorship
- Known for: Discovery of the tomb of Tutankhamun (KV62) in 1922
- Employer(s): Egypt Exploration Society, Supreme Council of Antiquities
- Field(s): Egyptology, Archaeology

## Contributions
Howard Carter's most significant contribution was the discovery and excavation of the tomb of Tutankhamun (designated KV62) in the Valley of the Kings in 1922. This find is considered one of the most important archaeological discoveries of the 20th century. He also contributed to the documentation and preservation of ancient Egyptian artifacts and collaborated with institutions such as the Egypt Exploration Society. Carter worked closely with George Herbert, 5th Earl of Carnarvon, who sponsored the excavation. His meticulous fieldwork and documentation helped establish modern archaeological standards in Egypt.

## FAQs
**What is Howard Carter most famous for?**  
Howard Carter is most famous for discovering the tomb of Tutankhamun in 1922, an intact burial site that yielded a wealth of ancient artifacts and significantly advanced the study of ancient Egypt.

**Which organizations was Howard Carter affiliated with?**  
Carter was affiliated with the Egypt Exploration Society, a British non-profit archaeological organization, and worked under the authority of the Supreme Council of Antiquities in Egypt.

**What awards did Howard Carter receive?**  
Howard Carter received several honors, including the Order of the Nile, the Order of Leopold II from Belgium, and an honorary doctorate from Yale University.

**What was Howard Carter's role in Egyptology?**  
Carter was a pioneering Egyptologist and archaeologist who specialized in the excavation and interpretation of ancient Egyptian sites, particularly in the Valley of the Kings.

**Did Howard Carter work with any notable sponsors or patrons?**  
Yes, he worked closely with George Herbert, 5th Earl of Carnarvon, who funded the excavation of Tutankhamun’s tomb.

**What impact did Howard Carter have on archaeology?**  
Carter’s discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb revolutionized public and academic interest in ancient Egypt and set new standards for archaeological documentation and preservation.

## Why They Matter
Howard Carter’s discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb reshaped the field of Egyptology and captured global attention, sparking renewed interest in ancient Egyptian history and culture. His methodical approach to excavation and documentation influenced archaeological practices and highlighted the importance of preserving historical artifacts. Carter’s legacy continues to inspire archaeologists and historians, and his work remains a cornerstone in the study of ancient civilizations.

## Notable For
- Discovery of the tomb of Tutankhamun (KV62) in 1922
- Collaboration with George Herbert, 5th Earl of Carnarvon
- Affiliation with the Egypt Exploration Society
- Recognition with the Order of the Nile and the Order of Leopold II
- Receipt of an honorary doctorate from Yale University
- Influential role in advancing archaeological methodologies in Egypt

## Body
### Early Life and Career
Howard Carter was born on 9 May 1874 in the United Kingdom. He was largely self-taught and began his career as an artist, creating detailed drawings of Egyptian monuments. His early work included joining the Egypt Exploration Society, which sent him to Egypt to assist in documenting and excavating ancient sites. Carter quickly gained recognition for his skill in archaeological illustration and fieldwork.

### Major Discovery: Tutankhamun’s Tomb
In 1922, Howard Carter, sponsored by George Herbert, 5th Earl of Carnarvon, discovered the intact tomb of the boy pharaoh Tutankhamun (KV62) in the Valley of the Kings. This discovery included over 5,000 artifacts and became one of the most significant archaeological events in history. The excavation was conducted under the authority of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, Egypt’s official body overseeing archaeological work.

### Archaeological Methodology and Influence
Carter was known for his meticulous documentation and preservation techniques. His work set a precedent for future archaeological endeavors by emphasizing scientific rigor and conservation. He worked extensively with the Egypt Exploration Society and collaborated with international institutions to ensure the proper handling and study of artifacts.

### Awards and Recognition
Howard Carter received several honors for his contributions to Egyptology:
- **Order of the Nile**: Awarded by Egypt in recognition of his archaeological work.
- **Order of Leopold II**: A Belgian honor acknowledging his international impact.
- **Honorary Doctorate from Yale University**: Recognizing his scholarly contributions.

### Legacy and Historical Significance
Howard Carter’s discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb not only brought him fame but also elevated the global profile of Egyptology. His work influenced public perception of archaeology and inspired generations of scholars. The tomb’s artifacts are now housed in the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, and Carter’s methods are still referenced in modern archaeological practices.

### Publications and Documentation
Carter contributed to the field through detailed reports and publications documenting the Tutankhamun excavation. These works remain essential references for Egyptologists and historians. His collaboration with institutions such as the Egypt Exploration Society ensured that his findings were preserved and disseminated effectively.

### Death and Final Years
Howard Carter passed away on 2 March 1939. His contributions to archaeology and Egyptology remain influential, and his legacy is preserved in the continued study and admiration of ancient Egyptian culture. He is buried in West London, and his work continues to be celebrated in exhibitions and academic research worldwide.

## References

1. Union List of Artist Names. 2010
2. BnF authorities
3. Integrated Authority File
4. LIBRIS. 2012
5. datos.bne.es
6. Czech National Authority Database
7. The Fine Art Archive
8. Oxford Dictionary of National Biography
9. Find a Grave
10. [Honorary Degrees Since 1702 | Office of the Secretary and Vice President for University Life](https://secretary.yale.edu/programs-services/honorary-degrees/since-1702?field_degrees_value=Doctor+of+Science&field_year_value=All&keys=1924)
11. Virtual International Authority File
12. CiNii Research
13. MusicBrainz
14. SNAC
15. Babelio
16. Carter, Howard
17. GeneaStar
18. Artnet
19. [Source](http://www.mcnbiografias.com/app-bio/do/show?key=carter-howard)
20. Nationalencyklopedin
21. [Source](http://www.bridgemanimages.com/en-GB/search/artist/21376)
22. Invaluable
23. NUKAT
24. CONOR.SR
25. National Library of Portugal
26. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
27. [Source](https://openlibrary.org/authors/OL4278749A/Carter_Howard)
28. Swedish Open Cultural Heritage
29. CONOR.SI
30. [Source](https://www.treccani.it/enciclopedia/howard-carter/)
31. Treccani's Enciclopedia on line
32. Quora
33. [Source](http://www.artnet.com/artists/howard-carter-2)
34. archINFORM
35. [archINFORM](https://www.archinform.net/service/wd_aiarch.php)
36. Bibliography of the History of the Czech Lands
37. Catalogo of the National Library of India