Australian Museum to host Egyptian Treasures
In September 2009 the Australian National Museum in Sydney launched its new exhibition Egyptian Treasures: Art of the Pharaohs. It features over 250 exquisite objects including intricately decorated coffins, amulets and sculpture. There will be many events to celebrate the exhibit, which will include evening talks held over eight weeks on Egyptian-related subjects from the role of women in ancient Egypt, to depictions of Egypt in the films of Hollywood. These talks will be held at various venues around Sydney including the Australian Museum on William Street, Macquarie University and the University of Sydney.
There will be a presentation at Macquarie University by Professor Boyo Ockinga, which will provide insights into the role of magic in the lives of ancient Egyptians. Magic in Ancient Egypt was inseparable from the practice of religion, as it was seen as the power at the disposal of the gods themselves, and used to overcome the forces of chaos that threatened the established order of the world. Another professor will present a program looking at Life after the Pharaohs: Egypt Under the Ptolemies, also at Macquarie University.
The University of Sydney will host Dr Sophie Winlaw presenting ‘Who Built the Pyramids? Theory versus Reality, with evidence that has been discovered in recent excavations about who the real builders were. Also at Sydney University will be The Mummy Returns: Ancient Egypt in Film and Cinema presented by Craig Barker. This will look at Hollywood’s fascination with ancient Egypt through historical epics like Cleopatra, adventure stories like Raiders of the Lost Ark, and the horror genre in The Mummy.
There will be a special private evening viewing of the exhibit along with the fancy-dress dinner event called Feasting with Pharaohs, which is part of the International Food Festival, and will feature exotic, genuine Egyptian cuisine and entertainment.
For children age 5 and up, accompanied by a parent, there will be a special overnight event called the “Mummy Megasnore”, which will be an Egyptian themed sleepover at the Museum in November. This fun night for kids will involve a spooky torchlight tour of the exhibition, a lesson in belly dancing, a special dinner and delicious Egyptian snacks. There will also be craft sessions, a movie shown, and a chance to be wrapped like a mummy.
It sounds like no one who loves Egyptian culture and history should miss this series of events! To learn all about the events planned, and for bookings, or more information, please go to the museum’s website at www.australianmuseum.net.au