In the realm of cultural institutions, few places boast the depth and diversity of those in Chicago. As an Egyptian Egyptologist, I particularly feel invigorated by the Egyptian collections around the city: Chicago is home to three major collections of Egyptian art: the Art Institute, the Field Museum, and the Institute for the Study of Ancient Cultures (ISAC) Museum (formerly the Oriental Institute). I also feel humbled by the opportunity to pen this essay for the catalogue of the wonderful Egyptian collection of the Art Institute of Chicago. Over the years, the museum’s curators, conservators, and other custodians of the collection have rethought how to showcase these objects’ unique stories. It is through their discerning perspectives that each piece finds its place within the narrative continuum, forming a bridge between the past and the present.1

The entries in this digital catalogue tell a narrative that extends beyond the hieroglyphs and artifacts on display. As scholars, we hope that visitors can navigate these accounts to understand the nuanced relationships between the artworks discussed here and the cultural contexts that birthed them, making connections between ancient and contemporary Egyptian cultures—whether it be the way ancient Egyptians used their environment to inspire their architecture, the resemblances between ancient and contemporary fertility and funeral rituals, or other expressions and symbolism in art and language. Each object in this catalogue communicates a profound sense of place and a connection to the landscapes, traditions, and ancestral spirits that shape Egyptian identities.2

Egyptology—the study of ancient Egyptian history, culture, and artifacts—has been shaped and enriched by the tireless efforts of countless individuals. The symbiotic relationship between foreign scholars and Egyptian Egyptologists has formed the cornerstone of Egyptology’s success. A collaborative spirit defines the contemporary discipline, in which diverse perspectives converge to study the past.3

While the discipline itself has a global reach, it is crucial to recognize and celebrate the pivotal role played by the Egyptian Egyptologists and workers who have preserved their cultural heritage and significantly advanced our understanding of the ancient civilization that once thrived along the banks of the Nile. Let us not forget the Egyptian Egyptologists and workers (see fig. 1) whose diverse interpretations, personal connections, and oral histories form an integral part of this ethnographic narrative. Their voices are often marginalized and yet undeniably vital. Beyond their academic endeavors, Egyptian Egyptologists embody a profound connection to the cultural heritage of their ancestors and bring a unique perspective to the study of their own history. Their intimate connection to the cultural nuances, linguistic intricacies, and the spiritual culture of ancient Egypt adds a depth to our understanding that transcends academic discourse. Through meticulous excavation, deciphering of hieroglyphs, and groundbreaking research, these individuals have become custodians of their own heritage, ensuring that their ancestors’ stories are not lost to the sands of time. Moreover, let us recognize the invaluable contributions of the workers who have labored tirelessly in excavation sites under the scorching sun as they excavated treasures buried for centuries. Their hands, calloused by the touch of history, unearthed artifacts that now grace the halls of museums around the world. Their stewardship of ancient sites, monuments, and artifacts has preserved Egyptian cultural heritage and helped establish the standards of custodianship and reverence for the past that inform dig sites today.

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As we celebrate the achievements of Egyptian Egyptologists and workers, we must also acknowledge the challenges they face. The preservation of ancient sites, the protection of artifacts from illicit trade, and the promotion of sustainable archaeological practices are pressing issues that demand our attention. By recognizing these challenges, we take a collective step toward ensuring that the legacy of Egyptology continues to thrive, fostering a legacy that future generations can inherit with pride. We must also underscore the importance of nurturing the next generation of indigenous scholars and experts. Empowering Egyptian youth with the tools, resources, and opportunities to engage with their heritage and pursue careers in Egyptology is essential for the continued vitality and inclusivity of the discipline.5

Many museums worldwide are reevaluating their presentation of cultures that have been historically deemed “other” in Western narratives, aiming to create exhibitions that present these cultures with increased awareness. These institutions are trying to rectify historical misrepresentations and accord these cultures the dignity and acknowledgment they deserve. Significant strides have been made toward ethically exhibiting, caring for, or repatriating artifacts, as well as mummified human remains; however, discussions surrounding repatriation are currently complex and yield little progress.6

Nevertheless, there are alternative methods that museums outside of Egypt should consider beyond physical repatriation. I propose initiatives such as the creation of specific virtual tours tailored for Egyptian audiences; the promotion of more student-exchange programs for greater cultural immersion; the greater involvement of Egyptian specialists in preservation efforts and exhibition curation; and the broadening of accessibility to Egyptian visitors, including through the creation of Arabic-language programming and texts. Additionally, it is crucial to support Egyptian archaeologists in broadcasting their research findings and facilitating their participation in conferences, peer-reviewed journals, and other public platforms.^[1] Addressing the scarcity of authentic Egyptian representation in media and recommending educational resources in Arabic further contribute to fostering a more inclusive and equitable approach to heritage preservation and dissemination.7

Egyptian collections have long been distinguished as some of the most widely dispersed and highly coveted antiquities in the world. Virtually every major museum boasts an impressive array of Egyptian artifacts, while even minor institutions are likely to possess a selection of bronzes or shabtis (small funerary figurines). Overall, museums displaying Egyptian collections must find a balance between showcasing the artistic and cultural achievements of ancient Egypt while also addressing contemporary ethical and interpretive considerations. Many institutions are re-contextualizing their Egyptian collections within broader cultural and historical frameworks, recognizing Egypt’s connections to other ancient civilizations throughout Africa and the Mediterranean, and its profound influence on global history and culture. This approach aims to provide visitors with a comprehensive understanding of the significance of Egyptian artifacts within a global context. At times, however, this approach may inadvertently lose sight of Egyptian perspectives, neglecting the region’s rich lineage and unique cultural heritage.8

To address these challenges, museums must strive for a balanced and inclusive approach that celebrates Egypt’s rich lineage while acknowledging its diverse cultural influences and contributions. This involves engaging with a range of voices, including those of Egyptian scholars, community representatives, and cultural heritage experts. By fostering collaboration and dialogue, museums can ensure that their exhibitions accurately reflect a nuanced and holistic understanding of this ancient civilization. Sadly, the opinions—let alone the oral history of the Egyptian people themselves—have historically been a subject of little interest among scholars. These histories should have been preserved with the same urgency given to artifacts.9

In line with this objective, I have launched a dedicated online project, the Egyptian Egyptology State of the Field Project (EESFP). This initiative is committed to exploring the contemporary landscape of Egyptology as practiced by Egyptians. Through this work, I strive to spotlight the field’s achievements, address its challenges, and propose strategies for its advancement. In the first phase of this investigation, an ethnological survey will gather the perspectives of Egyptians regarding their cultural heritage.^[2]10

In general, most Egyptians are proud of their ancient heritage and feel connected to it. Still, the way individuals perceive ancient Egyptian culture is diverse and influenced by each person’s religious, political, and social backgrounds. Manifestations of ancient Egypt permeate modern Egyptian life and culture, including pharaonic-inspired fashion, architecture, jewelry, statuary, painting, and street art (see fig. 2).11

Additionally, literature and film frequently pay homage to the glories of ancient Egyptian civilization, as evidenced by numerous musical productions such as the songs of Oum Kalthoum (ام كلثوم) and Mohamed Abdel Wahab (محمد عبد الوهاب) or the films of Yousseff Shahin (يوسف شاهين) (see fig. 3). The enduring allure of ancient Egypt and its contributions to the world is often a topic of conversation in popular culture, social media, and television. Moreover, ancient Egyptian symbols are prominently featured in contemporary Egyptian advertisements, signs, stamps, currency, lavish opera productions, and extravagant celebrations and parades (see fig. 4).
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Colonial narratives about Egypt have had a profound impact on the way Egypt is perceived today, both within and outside the country. These include the Description de l’Égypte produced by Napoleon Bonaparte’s expedition to Egypt and Syria in the late eighteenth century, eighteenth- and nineteenth-century European travel accounts, and Lord Cromer’s 1916 publication Modern Egypt.^[3] Europeans’ portrayal of Egypt as a backward and undeveloped country in need of Western intervention and guidance significantly shaped Western perceptions of Egypt’s historical legacy. This prejudiced view has shaped the field of Egyptology and often sidelines the contributions of twentieth-century Egyptian archaeologists. It is not uncommon for Egyptians’ understanding of their own past to be similarly influenced by Western perspectives, albeit indirectly. Some Egyptians tend to exhibit a heightened appreciation for specific aspects of their history only after these aspects have gained prominence among Western scholars. This phenomenon highlights how such external viewpoints can dilute the ways in which Egyptians perceive and engage with their own past. You can see its results for yourself if you tour downtown Cairo (see fig. 5), which is filled with Egyptianized European architecture styles that were imported back to Egypt via a process that I term reflective reception.13

Contemporary Egyptians continue to struggle with the ways in which their ancient culture has been appropriated and distorted by outsiders. Egyptologists from the West have historically claimed ownership over ancient Egyptian history, interpreting it through a Eurocentric lens that ignores the contributions of Egyptian society itself. Popular media representations of ancient Egypt often perpetuate racist stereotypes, such as portraying all ancient Egyptians as racially monolithic—either only white or only Black. These distortions have fueled a sense of cultural loss and erasure among contemporary Egyptians; some scholars have responded to this loss on social media platforms with calls to “re-Egyptianize ancient Egypt.”14

It is essential for museum curators to continually reexamine their collections and strive to re-Egyptianize ancient Egypt in their exhibitions. By doing so, curators can ensure that the representation of ancient Egyptian culture in their museums is rooted in an understanding of the civilization that is free from colonial or Eurocentric biases. Re-Egyptianizing ancient Egypt involves contextualizing artifacts within their cultural and historical frameworks, acknowledging the perspectives of Egyptians, and presenting a more holistic and accurate portrayal of Egyptian civilization. This approach fosters a deeper appreciation for the richness and complexity of ancient Egyptian culture and promotes cultural sensitivity, inclusivity, and a more genuine engagement with the heritage of Egypt. As we engage with the following entries on the Egyptian collections of the Art Institute of Chicago, let us do so with an open heart and a keen awareness of the indigenous stories waiting to be heard. May these works inspire continued exploration and dialogue for generations to come.
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