This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 2/27/2015
Typed letter from the Egyptian government regarding King Tut's tomb. The diplomat who writes the letter politely declines a request for admittance to the tomb. The issue of who was permitted in the tomb over the course of the excavation became a bone of contention between lead excavator Howard Carter and the Egyptian government; when one official banned nearly everyone including the wives of the excavation team, Carter took offense, temporarily abandoning the excavation. Addressed to an M. van Regemorter, letter reads, ''In reply to your letter of the 12th January I am afraid what you ask is not possible. However it is hoped to open the Tomb to the general public, probably early in February, and if you could arrange to go then, I will gladly put your name on the Priority List for permits.'' Signed, ''P.M.T.'' Countersigned and dated 13 January 1923. Single-page letter measures 6.5'' x 8.25''. Pencil notations to upper right and mild foxing and toning. Very good.