The revitalized Egyptian permanent exhibition at the Museum of Fine Arts is now open and awaits your visit in an expanded area filled with exciting new artifacts and topics. This fresh concept immerses you in the world of ancient Egypt, organized into three captivating thematic units: Temple - Gods; Nile Valley - People; Tomb - Dead. Come and experience this remarkable journey through history!
The new exhibition brings the era to life in a captivating and memorable way, combining essential knowledge with stunning visuals and interactive tools. Visitors will find the information not only accessible but also scientifically accurate. Don’t miss the intriguing "Egyptian Chamber of Secrets," where a treasure trove of fascinating insights awaits those eager to explore further.
Since the Museum of Fine Arts unveiled its first permanent Egyptian exhibition in 1939, it has undergone three significant renewals—in 1972, 1996, and most recently in 2013. The current permanent exhibition of the Egyptian Collection showcases over 500 remarkable artifacts and is thoughtfully organized into thematic units, allowing visitors to appreciate the collection's most important pieces in a more meaningful context rather than a simple chronological timeline. Discover the rich history and culture of ancient Egypt in a way that captivates and inspires!
The exhibition powerfully showcases the three essential realms of the Egyptian worldview—humans, gods, and the dead—while also illuminating the intricate ways these spheres communicate with one another. The thoughtfully chosen wall colors throughout the exhibition enhance its themes and draw on ancient Egyptian color symbolism. Vibrant blue hues represent the worlds of gods and men, reminiscent of the endless sky and the vital Nile River. Transitioning through the sand-colored walls, visitors are reminded of the Egyptians’ belief that the desert, which borders the Nile Valley, served as the crucial passageway between the living and the realm of the dead. The realm of the dead features a radiant golden glow, symbolizing the ancient belief that those who pass on are reborn as divine beings, their essence shining with celestial brilliance. This exhibition invites you to explore not just the separation but also the profound connections between these realms.
Step through the main entrance and immerse yourself in the captivating world of ancient Egyptian temples. Discover the fascinating concepts of creation that shaped their beliefs, explore the essential tools used in temple rituals, and admire the powerful statues of noble figures that stand proudly in the temple courtyards. Unleash your creativity by playing the sistrum, a traditional Egyptian rattle instrument, using our interactive device. Venture to the far end of the room, where the mysterious realm of church sanctuaries unfolds before your eyes.
In the exhibition’s second part, you'll uncover the essential tools of everyday life in the Nile Valley, spanning from the 4th millennium BC to the medieval Coptic Christian era. Delve into the wonders of ancient Egyptian writing systems and magical practices. Our interactive tool lets you explore the intriguing world of Egyptian hieroglyphs and protective amulets, ensuring a memorable and enriching experience. Join us on this remarkable journey through time!
In the third and fourth rooms, you'll find not only mummies but also fascinating burial items carefully placed in the Egyptian burial chamber. These artifacts reflect the Egyptians’ deep belief that they could aid individuals in navigating the challenges of the journey to the afterlife, ultimately helping them to emerge as divine beings in the eternal realm.
Adjacent to the new Egyptian exhibition is a discovery room designed for both children and adults, where an array of intriguing facts about Egyptian sculpture and the artistry behind Egyptian porcelain await. This engaging space also features a showcase of Pre-Asian artifacts, offering a rich glimpse into the artistic achievements of ancient Middle Eastern cultures. Here, you can deepen your understanding of Mesopotamian cuneiform writing, explore the world's first mosaic techniques, and marvel at the intricate miniature artistry of seal cylinders and sealers. Don’t miss this opportunity to enrich your knowledge and imagination!
From June 17, 2024, to January 20, 2025, visitors to the exhibition will have the chance to compare original ancient artifacts with skillful forgeries. Can you tell which is ancient and which is modern? Detailed descriptions are available on the stand next to each display case, allowing you to observe the objects more closely.