Ancient Egypt–Art and MagicTreasures from the Fondation Gandur pour l’Art

December 19, 2011 through April 29, 2012

Above: Lid of an Anthropoid Sarcophagus Inscribed for Hor-em-akhet, Dynasty XXI-XXV, 1080-655 BCE, wood with inlays of white stone (alabaster or limestone) and blue glass

This landmark exhibition brings to life one of the greatest civilizations in the history of the world, spotlighting astonishing objects of every kind.

Mummy cases and sacred works in diverse media, tomb and temple reliefs, papyrus fragments, alabaster vessels, and rare objects comprised of precious stones make this one of the most dramatic shows ever presented at the MFA. The 100 works demonstrate the genius of ancient craftsmen, and the magical or spiritual qualities of the objects are revealed at every turn. The internationally respected Egyptologist Dr. Robert Steven Bianchi is the guest curator.

“The Museum of Fine Arts, St. Petersburg is proud to bring these distinguished works of art to America,” said Museum Director Kent Lydecker. “The quality of the objects will be a revelation to scholars and the public. We are indebted to the Fondation Gandur pour l’Art, to Dr. Bianchi, and to our exhibition sponsors for making this extraordinary project possible.”