In a landmark step towards its eagerly anticipated official opening, the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) has received 163 priceless artifacts from the famed collection of the Golden King, Tutankhamun. The treasures, transferred from the Egyptian Museum in Tahrir, mark a significant milestone in the plan to unite the young pharaoh’s full collection under one roof for the very first time.
The transfer was overseen during a special visit by Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, Sherif Fathi, who was accompanied by Dr. Ahmed Ghoneim, CEO of the Museum Authority, Dr. Mohammed Ismail Khaled, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, and senior officials from the ministry and museum.
“The arrival of these remarkable treasures heralds the final phase of preparations ahead of the Grand Egyptian Museum’s official inauguration, scheduled for July 3,” Minister Fathi explained.
He affirmed that the remaining artifacts from King Tutankhamun’s storied collection will continue to be transferred in carefully managed stages, following a precise schedule to ensure their safe arrival and display.
Dr. Ahmed Ghoneim highlighted that the entire transfer process adhered to the highest international standards, both scientifically and technically.
“Specialised teams conducted thorough examinations and prepared detailed reports for each artifact, ensuring that every piece was packaged and transported with the utmost care,” he said.
The museum’s restoration team will begin meticulous maintenance and restoration work, preparing each artifact for its new home in specially designed, permanent galleries dedicated to King Tutankhamun.
“Our goal is to create an integrated display that pays homage to the status and enduring legacy of this extraordinary young king,” Dr. Ghoneim added.
Among the dazzling treasures now ensconced at the GEM are some of the most iconic items from Tutankhamun’s tomb: the renowned ceremonial chair, discovered in the corridor leading to his burial chamber, the gilded wooden cabin for his canopic jars, and an array of stunning gold and agate jewelry, including necklaces and ornaments.
The ceremonial chair, in particular, stands out as an exceptional masterpiece of ancient Egyptian art from the New Kingdom. Adorned with inlays of ivory, ebony, faience, and gold, the chair’s back features the radiant sun disk, carried by the winged goddess, while the footrest is decorated with intricate gilded motifs depicting Egypt’s traditional enemies.
