The Metropolitan Museum of Art Egypt is one of the world’s most important art institutions. Located in New York City, it is home to over two million works of art from around the world, including those from ancient Egypt. As one of the oldest and largest museums in the world, the Met’s collection is unparalleled in scope and diversity.
History of the Museum
The Metropolitan Museum of Art was founded in 1870 and opened its doors in 1872. The museum’s first director was an American businessman, John Taylor Johnston, who was also an avid art collector. Johnston’s goal was to create a museum that would serve as a center for the study and appreciation of art. The museum was initially funded by private donations, and it quickly became a popular destination for tourists and art enthusiasts alike.
Egyptian Art Collection
The Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Egyptian collection is one of the largest and most comprehensive in the world. It includes over 35,000 objects from all periods of ancient Egyptian history, from the Prehistoric period to the Roman era. The collection includes sculptures, jewelry, pottery, furniture, coins, mummies, and more. Highlights of the collection include the Temple of Dendur, a 1st-century BC temple from Nubia, and the Temple of the Winged Lions, an 18th-dynasty temple from Luxor.
Notable Exhibitions
The Metropolitan Museum of Art has hosted numerous exhibitions on ancient Egyptian art, including the groundbreaking exhibition The Splendor of Ancient Egypt in 1976. This exhibition featured over 500 works of art, including many from the Met’s own collection. In 2015, the museum presented The World of Ancient Egypt, which showcased more than 200 objects from the museum’s vast Egyptian holdings. The exhibition provided an in-depth look at life in ancient Egypt, from everyday objects to royal funerary objects.
Visiting the Metropolitan Museum of Art
The Metropolitan Museum of Art is open daily, except Mondays, from 10am to 5:30pm. Admission is free, though donations are welcome. The museum is wheelchair accessible, and guided tours are available. Special exhibitions may require an additional fee.
Visiting the Egyptian Collection
The Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Egyptian collection is located on the second floor of the museum. It is open daily from 10am to 4:45pm. Visitors can take a self-guided tour or join a free guided tour, which is offered daily at 2pm.
Educational Resources
The Metropolitan Museum of Art offers a variety of educational resources, including an online collection database, teacher resources, and educational programs. Additionally, the museum hosts a variety of special events and lectures related to ancient Egyptian art.
Accessibility
The Metropolitan Museum of Art is committed to making its collections and programs accessible to everyone. The museum offers a range of accessibility services, including audio tours, sign language interpretation, and wheelchair loaner services.
Conclusion
The Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Egyptian collection is one of the world’s finest. With over 35,000 objects from all periods of ancient Egyptian history, the museum offers visitors an unparalleled opportunity to explore the art and culture of ancient Egypt. Whether you’re visiting the museum for a guided tour or to browse the collection, the Metropolitan Museum of Art is a must-see destination for art lovers of all ages.