The Fitzwilliam Museum Egyptian Collection is one of the world’s most important collections of ancient Egyptian artifacts. Located in Cambridge, England, the collection includes over 7,000 objects ranging from small artifacts to monumental sculptures. It is one of the most comprehensive collections of its kind in the world and provides an important insight into the culture and history of ancient Egypt.
History of the Collection
The Fitzwilliam Museum was founded in 1816 as part of the University of Cambridge. The museum’s Egyptian collection was established by the bequest of Charles Brice, who donated his collection of antiquities in 1824. Over the years, the collection has grown through the generous donations of other individuals, such as Edward Henry Cromwell, the 6th Earl of Enniskillen, and Charles Thomas Newton, the British archaeologist and diplomat.
Highlights of the Collection
The collection includes a variety of objects from the Predynastic period to the Roman period, including sculptures, funerary equipment, jewelry, tools, and everyday objects. Some of the highlights of the collection include:
- The Narmer Palette, a ceremonial palette from the Early Dynastic period depicting the unification of Upper and Lower Egypt.
- The Head of Senusret III, a limestone sculpture of the pharaoh from the Middle Kingdom.
- The Gayer-Anderson Cat, a bronze statue of a seated cat from the Late Period.
- The Lid of a Sarcophagus, a granite lid from the Late Period, depicting a funeral procession.
Exhibitions and Events
The Fitzwilliam Museum hosts a number of exhibitions and events related to the Egyptian collection. The museum’s Mummy Room houses mummies and related artifacts, while its Egyptian Gallery displays a selection of objects from the collection. The museum also hosts lectures, workshops, and other educational activities related to ancient Egypt. The museum’s website also provides a wealth of information about the collection and related topics.
Accessibility
The Fitzwilliam Museum is open to the public and admission is free. The museum also offers a range of accessibility options for visitors with disabilities. Wheelchair access is available throughout the museum, and tactile maps are available for visitors with visual impairments. Audio guides are also available in a range of languages, and braille and large print information is available upon request.
Conclusion
The Fitzwilliam Museum Egyptian Collection is an important resource for scholars and enthusiasts alike. It provides an insight into the culture and history of ancient Egypt, and its diverse range of objects offer an opportunity to explore the material culture of this fascinating civilization. The museum’s exhibitions, events, and accessibility options make it a great destination for visitors of all ages.