Franklin Institute brings King Tut to Philly

By Lauren McGlone
Senior Staff Writer
February 7, 2007

Thousands of years ago, ancient Egyptian rulers would probably never have imagined their items being displayed in Philadelphia in the year 2007. This idea has become reality as “Tutankhamun and the Golden Age of the Pharaohs” visits the Franklin Institute.

The exhibit of 130 items features not only those found in King Tut’s tomb but includes for the first time, objects found in the burial places of other similar pharaohs.

The discovery of Tut’s tomb in 1922 was the beginning of the world’s fascination with the boy king. Since then, the 1977 tour of the exhibit captivated millions of people around the globe. Now, for the first time in three decades, the exhibit will tour again.

Historical presentations on Egyptian life before and during Tutankhamun’s reign are featured as part of the display, in addition to the cultural background on the strong belief in the afterlife by the ancient Egyptians. Analysis and speculations surrounding Tut’s short life and mysterious death are also presented to the viewing public.

News of the exhibit’s visit in Philadelphia has captured the attention of the media and the public. Coverage by local news stations, primarily Channel 6 News, began months ago at the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, where the objects originated. Philadelphians waited anxiously for the exhibit to arrive in the city and for their chance to view the 3,500-year-old items.

Feb. 3 marked the premiere of “Tutankhamun and the Golden Age of the Pharaohs.” The evening, complete with live camels, featured a gala attended by hundreds to celebrate the opening of the exhibit here in Philadelphia.

A one-hour special aired by Channel 6 brought the premiere into the homes of Philadelphians city-wide on the special night. Thousands more are expected to visit the exhibit over the next eight months. Four hundred thousand tickets have already been pre-sold.

Also to celebrate the arrival of King Tut’s relics was an adjusted menu at the Fountain Restaurant at the Four Seasons Hotel, reflecting the spirit of excitement surrounding the exhibit. The chefs have added a new dessert, called “Pharoah’s Indulgence,” which is made of dates, figs, pomogranates, honey mousse and gold-sheated almonds. According to the findings in the tomb, the famous boy king was buried with a fistful of almonds to satiate his appetite on his way to the afterlife. Other menu items additionally reflect the traditions and rituals believed about the ancient Egyptians.

Tickets are now on sale for “Tutankhamun and the Golden Age of the Pharaohs.” The exhibit will be in Philadelphia at the Franklin Institute from Feb. 3 to Sept. 30.

mcglonel1@lasalle.edu