October 12, 2025–January 19, 2026
The Met
In the fascinating world of ancient Egypt, gods were not merely abstract figures but living presences brought to life through art. Egyptians believed that the depictions of their deities in tombs, temples, and shrines served as portals, allowing gods to inhabit sacred spaces and actively participate in rituals. This belief created an intimate connection between the human and the divine, sustaining the spiritual fabric of ancient Egyptian society.
The exhibition Divine Egypt assembles nearly 250 remarkable artworks and objects, generously loaned from some of the world’s most prestigious institutions including the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston; the Musée du Louvre, Paris; and the Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek, Copenhagen. This extensive collection paints a vivid picture of the diverse pantheon of over 1,500 gods worshipped throughout Egypt’s long history. Through subtle visual cues such as attire, posture, and iconic symbols, visitors can learn to identify gods like Horus with his striking falcon head, the fierce lioness Sakhmet, and the peaceful, shrouded Osiris — each embodying unique aspects of life, death, and the cosmos.
The close relationship between the pharaoh and the gods was often enacted within the hidden sanctuaries of monumental temples, where the king engaged in daily rituals. However, divine access for the ordinary people was no less profound; they cultivated personal connections to the gods through various rituals, offerings, and objects imbued with sacred meaning. This immersive presentation reveals how divine imagery was woven into everyday life, providing comfort, guidance, and understanding amid the uncertainties of existence and the inevitability of death.
Carefully curated and richly contextualized, Divine Egypt invites audiences to explore the multifaceted roles these deities played—not only in mythology but in the practical spirituality of ancient Egyptians. The exhibition underscores the power of art to transcend time, revealing human devotion and the quest for spiritual connection that resonates even today.
For more detailed information, please visit the official exhibition page at The Met’s Divine Egypt Exhibition.
