Uncover 'Face to Face: The People Behind Mummy Portraits': An Exhibition of Ancient Roman Egyptian Art and History

This exhibition brings together around 38 mummy portraits from Roman Egypt (1st-4th century AD), known as Fayum portraits, gathered from around the world. It explores not only the individuals depicted but also the makers, descendants, collectors, and researchers connected to these ancient artworks.

The exhibition 'Face to Face. The People Behind Mummy Portraits' presents a unique collection of approximately 38 mummy portraits, created during the Roman period in Egypt between the 1st and 4th centuries AD. These striking artworks, often painted on wooden panels and placed over the faces of the mummified, are also known as Fayum portraits due to the region where most were excavated. The exhibition focuses on the individuals immortalized almost 2,000 years ago, inviting visitors to come face to face with them. Beyond the portraits themselves, the exhibition delves into the broader human connections surrounding these artifacts. It introduces visitors to the makers, descendants, followers, collectors, archaeologists, and researchers who have all played a role in the story of mummy portraiture. These mummy portraits captivate viewers with their detailed clothing, direct gazes, and surprisingly modern realism. They represent significant artistic expressions, utilizing the encaustic painting technique found in later Byzantine icons and influencing artists of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. To this day, they are considered prime examples of early realistic portraiture. The exhibition is informed by the latest research, including technical studies on materials initiated by the Allard Pierson. Collaborating with international research partners, the museum shares initial findings from its ongoing studies of twelve mummy portraits, offering new insights into their creation and context.