Pharaoh at NGV: Don’t Miss Ancient Egypt in Melbourne
Don’t miss the Pharaoh exhibition at NGV International until 6 October 2024!
This landmark exhibition, in partnership with the British Museum, offers an enthralling dive into the world of ancient Egypt right in the heart of Melbourne. Whether you’re a history buff, an art enthusiast, or just looking for an engaging outing, this exhibit is something you won’t forget.
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>> Head straight to our personal tidbits and accessibility advice for visiting Pharaoh at NGV
NGV Pharaoh: Ancient Egyptian Exhibition Melbourne
Upon entering the NGV Pharaoh exhibition, you’ll be greeted by the grandeur and mystique of ancient Egypt.
Pharaoh showcases over 500 remarkable objects that span three thousand years of Egyptian history. This includes monumental sculptures, intricate jewellery, detailed papyri, and a wealth of funerary objects. The exhibit is divided into seven thematic sections, each shedding light on different aspects of the pharaoh’s roles and duties.
Thank you NGV International for putting on the Egyptian Pharaoh Exhibition. It was an overwhelming experience to see so many objects, including sculptures, jewellery, coffins and more. The atmosphere of being in the same space as things that were 3000 years old was hard to absorb.
To imagine a culture so old and from such a long time ago was very moving. The exhibition was in two parts, various large spaces with lots of artefacts to gaze at. There was quite a crowd the day we went to the exhibition, however the queue moved along at a steady pace. I was grateful for a few seating areas to be able to take a break and sit and ponder.
Upon leaving the first section, we enjoyed a cuppa and a little debrief at the NGV cafe before moving to the second section, which was just as overwhelming as the first. Allow plenty of time to enjoy a leisurely look. I think we were there for a minimum of 3 hours.
Even though the concession tickets were only $3.00 cheaper I feel the price of $35.00 is very worthwhile for this once-in-a-lifetime event. I give it a 10 out of 10!
– Terrie
Unveiling the Pharaoh’s Many Faces
One of the exhibition’s highlights is its exploration of the pharaoh’s multifaceted roles. The pharaoh was not just a king; he was the high priest officiating in temples, the head of the country’s administration, the leader of the army, and the head of the royal family. This comprehensive display delves into the pharaoh’s responsibilities, such as protecting Egypt from enemies and ensuring universal order.
Walking through the exhibition, you’ll encounter an array of artefacts that illustrate these roles. For instance, you’ll see statues and monuments that depict pharaohs as invincible warriors and devoted worshippers of the gods. These pieces offer a fascinating glimpse into the idealised image the pharaohs presented to their subjects.
The Reality Behind the Iconography
While the exhibition showcases the idealised depictions of the pharaohs, it also unveils the complex realities behind these images. Not all pharaohs were male or even Egyptian, and Egypt itself experienced periods of civil war, foreign conquest, and competing rulers. This nuanced portrayal helps visitors appreciate the intricate history and diverse experiences of these ancient rulers.
One example of this complexity is the display of artefacts from the reign of Hatshepsut, one of Egypt’s few female pharaohs. Her statues, often depicted with traditional male pharaoh iconography, challenge our modern perceptions and highlight the fluidity of gender roles in ancient Egypt.
Navigating the Pharaoh Exhibition
To make the most of your visit to the Pharaoh exhibition at NGV International, it’s helpful to plan ahead. The exhibition spans the entirety of NGV’s Ground Level, divided into two parts. A map is available at the entrance to assist you in navigating the space. Be sure to allocate enough time to fully immerse yourself in each section; there’s a lot to see and absorb. We recommend 3 hours at a minimum (with a coffee break in the middle).
Ancient Egypt for Kids is a fun companion for the exhibition, held in the Children’s Gallery on the ground floor and is free to enter.
Guided tours are available daily at different times. Check at the front desk or online before your visit. No booking is required, just show up at the time with your exhibition ticket.
Tidbits for Visiting Pharaoh NGV Melbourne
- Exhibition on now until 6 October 2024;
- Adult tickets are $38 and a seniors card discount is available on Wednesdays only at $35;
- Plan to spend 3+ hours exploring the exhibition;
- Comfortable seating areas are located throughout to take a rest;
- Ancient Egypt for Kids is a fun companion for the exhibition, held in the Children’s Gallery and is free entry;
- Enjoy an easy lunch or drink from the cafe;
- Other dining options include the Garden Restaurant or Tea Rooms;
- Plan a visit to the nearby NGV Australia as well, but you might need another whole day for this.
NGV Accessibility
- Ramp access, lifts and accessible toilets;
- Large print guides, hearing loops and audio guides are available;
- Read more about visiting NGV International here;
- Located 500 metres from Flinders St Station, with buses and trams stopping nearby;
- Various parking facilities are close by.
NGV International
180 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne VIC 3006
(03) 8620 2222 https://www.ngv.vic.gov.au/
