The civilization of ancient Egypt that flourished along the Nile
Valley for over three thousand years left a wealth of material
remains of unparalleled scope. These objects relate primarily to
the extraordinary efforts devoted by theEgyptians to the pursuit
of immortality. Their sophisticated funerary cult, together with
the dry climate of the Nile Valley, helped preserve mummified
bodies, magnificently decorated and opulently supplied tombs,
and an abundance of written sources. The desire to achieve
eternal life, shared by all ancient Egyptians, is expressed in
their monumental temples and elaborate tombs, which yielded the
great majority of objects here on display. The primary function
of these objects was to provide their owners with magical
protection against perils threatening their eternal survival.
Comprising statues, amulets, stelae, and various funerary items,
these objects reflect the Egyptians’ fascinating culture and
shed light on their perception of their gods, their kings, and
themselves, within