Egyptian Collection

Overview

Step into a realm where the sands of time have preserved millennia of human ingenuity and belief within the heart of Copenhagen, Denmark. The Egyptian Collection at the Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek offers an extraordinary journey back to Ancient Egypt, showcasing an impressive array of artifacts that span over 3,000 years of history. This sub-spot within the grand Glyptotek is not merely a display of relics; it is a meticulously curated narrative, inviting visitors to uncover the profound artistic traditions, intricate social structures, and enduring spiritual customs of one of the world's most captivating civilizations. From monumental sculptures to intimate everyday objects, the collection brings the ancient Nile Valley to vivid life.

As you explore, you will encounter diverse representations of pharaohs, gods, officials, and scribes, each piece telling a segment of Egypt's rich and complex story. The Glyptotek's Department of Antiquities, where the Egyptian Collection resides, is celebrated as one of Europe's most significant collections of ancient art, promising a comprehensive and deeply engaging experience for any curious traveler.

History & Cultural Background

The foundation of the Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek's remarkable Egyptian Collection is rooted in the vision and passion of Carl Jacobsen, the son of the founder of Carlsberg Breweries. A dedicated art collector and generous philanthropist, Jacobsen's initial forays into acquiring Egyptian antiquities began in 1882 with the purchase of a sarcophagus. His burgeoning collection, alongside pieces acquired from international markets and through sponsorships of archaeological excavations in Egypt by the New Carlsberg Foundation, formed the core of what we see today.

When Jacobsen donated his extensive art collection to the Danish State and the City of Copenhagen in 1888, a condition was that a suitable building be constructed to house it. The Glyptotek itself opened in 1897, designed to present these treasures to the public. The collection chronologically covers a vast period, from approximately 3000 BCE to the 1st century CE, encompassing the Old, Middle, and New Kingdoms, as well as the later Roman Period in Egypt. This broad scope allows for a unique insight into the continuous evolution and steadfast traditions of Egyptian art and culture over millennia.

What Makes It Special

What truly sets the Egyptian Collection apart is its depth and the specific, often rare, masterpieces it holds. With over 1,900 pieces in total, and more than 300 on display, it represents the largest collection of Egyptian antiquities in Denmark. The collection masterfully illustrates that Egyptian art, while often perceived as static, underwent significant developments over its long history, yet always adhered to a distinct, recognizable aesthetic.

Among its most important works are the colossal dyad of Ramses II and the god Ptah, a monumental testament to royal power and divine connection. Another highlight is the serene figure of Treasury Master Gebu, offering a glimpse into the lives of ancient Egyptian officials. The iconic black head of a king, often identified as Pharaoh Amenemhat III, captivates with its striking, realistic features, a departure from typical idealizing tendencies. Furthermore, the collection boasts a unique ensemble of objects from the revolutionary Amarna Period, associated with Akhenaten, Nefertiti, and Tutankhamun, providing rare insights into a time of radical religious and artistic change.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

One of the collection's most intriguing pieces is a talatat block from Amarna. While often identified as Queen Kiya, a secondary wife of Akhenaten, its depiction might actually be of the eldest princess, Meryetaten, due to a later alteration of the head shape. This artifact provides a tangible connection to the dramatic reign of Akhenaten and the subsequent efforts to erase his legacy.

For those fascinated by the afterlife, the Glyptotek offers a special experience. Its 'mummy basement' is designed to recreate the atmosphere of descending into an ancient Egyptian tomb, housing actual mummies, coffins adorned with hieroglyphs, and lifelike mummy portraits from Egypt's Roman Period. Imagine stepping into the silence, surrounded by the very objects intended to accompany the deceased into the eternal world. Also, keep an eye out for one of the museum's oldest objects: a 5,000-year-old sculpture of a hippopotamus, a creature deeply symbolic in ancient Egyptian mythology.

Visitor Perspective

A visit to the Egyptian Collection begins typically from the elegant Winter Garden of the Glyptotek, leading you into the impressive Great Egyptian Gallery where monumental sculptures command attention. Smaller, yet equally significant, works are housed in the Small Egyptian Room. The collection is thoughtfully arranged, sometimes thematically and other times chronologically, to provide both an overview of artistic development and detailed insights into specific periods or aspects of ancient Egyptian life, such as their gods and the magic of hieroglyphs.

Allow ample time, perhaps an hour or two, to fully absorb the wonders of this collection. The interplay of light, the scale of the artifacts, and the serene environment of the Glyptotek itself contribute to a profoundly meditative experience. The museum is conveniently located in central Copenhagen, making it easily accessible for travelers eager to delve into the ancient world after exploring the vibrant Danish capital.