Te Papa and proud sponsor The Dominion Post are delighted to present Egypt: Beyond the Tomb – an exhibition that brings the ancient Egyptian world of the dead to life, opening Saturday 9 December 2006 at Te Papa.
Egypt: Beyond the Tomb explores death and the afterlife in Ancient Egypt through the story of Keku, a young woman and daughter of Namenekhamun, Chief Butcher in the temple complex of the god Amun in Thebes. The 2700-year-old mummy of Keku and her intricately decorated inner and outer coffins plus over 200 other ancient Egyptian burial treasures are presented in the exhibition.
The mummy of Keku will be displayed in her own room in the centre of the exhibition, so that the presentation of her mortal remains is dignified, and visitors have a choice as to whether they wish to view her.
The exhibition explores how researchers have pieced together Keku’s story from the diverse clues that her civilisation left behind. Visitors will be able to follow her preparations for death and her perilous journey through the underworld towards the eternal afterlife.
Mummification and embalming tools are featured in the exhibition, for example, a hook used to extract the brain of the deceased through their nose is used to explain part of the embalming process. Mummified animals, amulets to protect the dead on their underworld journey, and papyri with spells from the ‘Book of the Dead’ will be on display. The exhibition also includes other rare and beautiful artefacts such as jewellery and earthenware.
“This is a rare opportunity to gain insight into the lives of an ancient civilisation - through their treasures and stories we learn about the rituals, beliefs and values of the enchanting ancient Egyptian culture. We acknowledge the support of The Dominion Post in bringing Egypt: Beyond the Tomb to Te Papa, to share the story of Keku and her life’s journey through this fascinating exhibition,” said Dr Seddon Bennington, Te Papa’s Chief Executive.
"The Dominion Post is excited to again be partnering with another Wellington icon, Te Papa, and enabling this major exhibition to be brought to Wellington,” said Paul Williams, Marketing Manager, The Dominion Post.
“The Dominion Post has previously sponsored other major Te Papa exhibitions including Space: A galaxy of adventure, Dinosaurs from China, and Antarctic Heroes. These have all been huge hits with visitors to Te Papa, and our readers alike. We are in no doubt that Egypt: Beyond the Tomb will also be a resounding success, and we are very pleased to be associated with this exhibition,” he said.
This exhibition has been developed by the Australian Museum and the National Museum of Antiquities, Leiden, The Netherlands. It will be accompanied by a stimulating series of events for visitors of all ages, with highlights over the summer holidays.
The mysteries of Ancient Egypt have intrigued young and old since the first discoveries of this fascinating civilisation. Step into the world of the ancient Egyptians, where life exists beyond the tomb.
CONTACT
For further information or images please contact:
Bridget MacDonald Manager Communications 04 381 7083, 029 601 0180, bridgetm@tepapa.govt.nz
Paul Brewer, Director Marketing and Communications, 04 381 7023, 021 532 920