It highlights artifacts from the Nile Valley from the late prehistoric era (c. 4000 BC) to the Christian period (4th century AD). Incroyable!
Many people assume this department is a result of Napoleon Bonaparte's expedition to Egypt between 1798 and 1801; that it was sprung from 'spoils of war'. This is not so! In reality, the English appropriated most of those items. Only a small number were brought back by private parties, and entered into the Louvre much later. It was under the influence of Jean-François Champollion that this new section of the Louvre museum was created in 1827. Champollion is credited for having solved the enigma of Pharaonic writing in 1822. The Egyptian Antiquities are not just beautiful, they give a unique insight into the origin of mankind and modern society as we know it.
Overview of Works in the Egyptian Antiquities section of the Louvre
Religious and Funerary Beliefs: This area highlights the funerary practices and beliefs of the ancient Egyptian Pharaonic civilization. Its relics include sarcophagi, vestiges of tombs, fragments of temples which housed the cults to the gods, and also many figurines and amulets - all illustrating the Egyptians' faith in their deities.
Objects from Everyday Life: You will find fascinating trinkets, tools, furniture, hair combs and even spoons; items ancient Egyptians used in their everyday lives.
Late Paleolithic to the Thinite period (300,000 BC - 2600 BC): Covers periods from the late prehistoric times, Naqada I, II & III (Predynastic period); objects include some of the first three-dimensional human (female) figures. Rare and precious vestiges of writing and art from the first two dynasties are also visible. The first relief sculptures and Hieroglyphic writing appear. The collection extends to Thinite period (1st and 2nd Dynasty), with items such as the stele of the "serpent king". During this time, the powers begin to centralize (the title "King of Upper and Lower Egypt" appears) and inequalities grow greatly.
Old Kingdom to First Intermediary Period (2700 - 2033 BC): The pyramids appear during the 3rd Dynasty and offer evidence of the King's great power. Amongst the many objects on display, you will notice the head of a sphinx of King Djedefre, 4th Dynasty; the dynasty that saw the birth of the most famous pyramids (Giza, Khéops ...). During this time Egyptian influence expends to neighboring regions. Nobles, in remote regions, are given some autonomy. Other objects from the Middle Kingdom give great insight into the lives of middle class families.
Middle Kingdom to Second Intermediary Period (2033 - 1550 BC): By admiring the Offering-bearer statuette and many of the items from this period, it is apparent why this period is referred to as Egypt's "classical" or Golden age. The monarchy solidifies once more and expands. Writing, language, art, and religion all mature. Dynasties 14 through 16 see the country divided by the Hyksos. The 17th dynasty end up reuniting the country.
The New Kingdom to the Third Intermediary Period (1500 - 664 BC): This is the time during which the Pharaoh's power extended from Nubia to the Euphrates River. Art for the ruling class had achieved its highest level of refinement, as is reflected in such items as the sculpture of the king's head clerk and his wife. There are many statues and inscriptions carved on slabs in this era. Items exposed at the Louvre reflect the succession of anarchy and radiance phases during these dynasties, which untimely lead to social, cultural and religious maturing.
The Last Pharaonic Dynasties and the Ptolemaic Period (664-30 BC): Art in these rooms evolved through contact with the Persians, Macedonians, and Romans. Heightened feelings of insecurity through political instability and invasions are evidenced in these pieces. Metal artwork appears. Appearance of the Greco-Egyptian style. The port city of Alexandria becomes Egypt's revitalized doorway the world through the Mediterranean sea.
Roman Egypt (30 BC - AD 392): This area highlights items from the time when Egypt was under Roman rule. Artifacts in these rooms are particularly fascinating because of their artistically unique blend of Pharaonic and Greco-Roman styles.
Christian Egypt (Fourth - Twelfth Centuries AD): Artifacts in this area highlight 'Copic Art', demonstrating the original aspects of ancient Christianity. These rooms include many delicate tapestries that once adorned tunics, and sculptures from the Bawit church.
Check it out! The Louvre has much more to offer than just European paintings.
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