BIA LIX TOU TAN KHA MON [ ] e t t e l à la Vil Institut français d'archéologie orientale Collège de France Chaire "Civilisation de l'Égypte pharaonique : archéologie, philologie, histoire" Bulletin d'Information Archéologique BIA www.egyptologues.net LIX Janvier - Juin 2019 Le Caire - Paris 2019 Bulletin d’Information Archéologique REVUE SEMESTRIELLE n° 59 janvier / juin 2019 Système de translittération des mots arabes Directeur de la publication Nicolas GRIMAL Nicolas.grimal@college-deFrance.fr Rédaction et coordination Emad ADLY eadly@ifao.egnet.net consonnes IFAO Ambafrance Caire S/C Valise diplomatique 13, rue Louveau F-92438 Chatillon http://www.ifao.egnet.net 37, rue al-Cheikh Ali Youssef B.P. Qasr al-Aïny 11562 Le Caire – R.A.E. Tél. : [20 2] 27 97 16 37 Fax : [20 2] 27 94 46 35 Collège de France Chaire "Civilisation de l’Égypte pharaonique : archéologie, philologie, histoire" http://www.egyptologues.net 52, rue du Cardinal Lemoine F 75231 Paris Cedex 05 Tél. : [33 1] 44 27 10 47 Fax : [33 1] 44 27 11 09 ‫ء‬ ‘ ‫ز‬ z ‫ق‬ q longues : ‫ ا‬â, ‫ ي‬î, ‫ و‬û ‫ب‬ b ‫س‬ s ‫ك‬ k brèves : a, i, u ‫ت‬ t ‫ش‬ sh ‫ل‬ l diphtongues : aw, ay ‫ث‬ th ‫ص‬ s ‫م‬ m ‫ج‬ G ‫ض‬ Dh ‫ن‬ n ‫ح‬ H ‫ط‬ t ‫هـ‬ h ‫خ‬ kh ‫ظ‬ z ‫و‬ © Institut français d’archéologie orientale. Le Caire. 2019 © Collège de France. Paris. 2019 ISSN 1110-2489 autres conventions w/û tæ’ marbºta = a, at (état construit) ‫د‬ D ‫ع‬ ‘ ‫ذ‬ Z ‫غ‬ gh ‫ر‬ r ‫ف‬ f Remarques ou suggestions eadly@ifao.egnet.net Les articles ou extraits d’articles publiés dans le BIA et les idées qui peuvent s’y exprimer n’engagent que la responsabilité de leurs auteurs et ne représentent pas une position officielle de la Rédaction. voyelles ‫ى‬ y/î article: al- et l- (même devant les “solaires”) SOMMAIRE SYSTEME DE TRANSLITTERATION……….…3 ÉDITORIAL……………………….……………..…5 SOMMAIRE……………………..……………….…7 I – JANVIER 2019 MERCREDI 2 JANVIER 2019 ........................... 9 JEUDI 3 JANVIER 2019 ..................................10 SAMEDI 5 JANVIER 2019 ..............................13 DIMANCHE 6 JANVIER 2019 ........................13 MARDI 8 JANVIER 2019 ................................16 MERCREDI 9 JANVIER 2019 .........................16 JEUDI 10 JANVIER 2019 ................................21 SAMEDI 12 JANVIER 2019 ............................25 DIMANCHE 13 JANVIER 2019 ......................26 LUNDI 14 JANVIER 2019 ..............................27 MARDI 15 JANVIER 2019 .............................28 JEUDI 17 JANVIER 2019 ................................29 DIMANCHE 20 JANVIER 2019 ......................33 LUNDI 21 JANVIER 2019 ..............................34 MARDI 22 JANVIER 2019 .............................35 MERCREDI 23 JANVIER 2019 ......................36 JEUDI 24 JANVIER 2019 ................................40 SAMEDI 26 JANVIER 2019 ............................44 DIMANCHE 27 JANVIER 2019 ......................46 MARDI 29 JANVIER 2019 .............................48 MERCREDI 30 JANVIER 2019 ......................48 JEUDI 31 JANVIER 2019 ................................50 II – FEVRIER 2019 VENDREDI 1ER FEVRIER 2019 ......................59 DIMANCHE 3 FEVRIER 2019 ........................59 LUNDI 4 FEVRIER 2019 ................................60 MERCREDI 6 FEVRIER 2019.........................62 BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 JEUDI 7 FEVRIER 2019 ..................................64 DIMANCHE 10 FEVRIER 2019 .....................70 LUNDI 11 FÉVRIER 2019 ..............................70 MARDI 12 FEVRIER 2019 .............................71 MERCREDI 13 FÉVRIER 2019 ......................71 JEUDI 14 FEVRIER 2019 ...............................74 VENDREDI 15 FEVRIER 2019 ......................77 DIMANCHE 17 FÉVRIER 2019 .....................78 LUNDI 18 FEVRIER 2019 ..............................81 MERCREDI 20 FÉVRIER 2019 ......................82 JEUDI 21 FEVRIER 2019 ...............................85 LUNDI 25 FÉVRIER 2019 ..............................89 MARDI 26 FEVRIER 2019 .............................91 MERCREDI 27 FÉVRIER 2019 ......................92 JEUDI 28 FEVRIER 2019 ...............................92 III – MARS 2019 SAMEDI 2 MARS 2019 ...................................99 DIMANCHE 3 MARS 2019 .............................99 LUNDI 4 MARS 2019................................... 102 MARDI 5 MARS 2019.................................. 103 MERCREDI 6 MARS 2019 ........................... 103 VENDREDI 8 MARS 2019 ........................... 108 MARDI 12 MARS 2019 ............................... 109 MERCREDI 13 MARS 2019 ........................ 109 JEUDI 14 MARS 2019 ................................. 112 VENDREDI 15 MARS 2019 ........................ 115 SAMEDI 16 MARS 2019 ............................. 116 LUNDI 18 MARS 2019 ................................ 117 MARDI 19 MARS 2019 ............................... 118 MERCREDI 20 MARS 2019 ........................ 119 JEUDI 21 MARS 2019 ................................. 120 VENDREDI 22 MARS 2019 ........................ 124 SAMEDI 23 MARS 2019 ............................. 124 LUNDI 25 MARS 2019 ................................ 125 MARDI 26 MARS 2019 ............................... 126 MERCREDI 27 MARS 2019 ........................ 127 JEUDI 28 MARS 2019 ................................. 129 VENDREDI 29 MARS 2019 ........................ 133 SAMEDI 30 MARS 2019 ............................. 134 DIMANCHE 31 MARS 2019 ....................... 135 7 Sommaire IV – AVRIL 2019 LUNDI 1ER AVRIL 2019 ............................... 136 MARDI 2 AVRIL 2019 ................................. 137 MERCREDI 3 AVRIL 2019 .......................... 140 JEUDI 4 AVRIL 2019.................................... 145 VENDREDI 5 AVRIL 2019........................... 148 SAMEDI 6 AVRIL 2019 ............................... 149 DIMANCHE 7 AVRIL 2019.......................... 149 LUNDI 8 AVRIL 2019 .................................. 152 MARDI 9 AVRIL 2019 ................................. 153 JEUDI 11 AVRIL 2019 ................................. 156 VENDREDI 12 AVRIL 2019 ........................ 159 SAMEDI 13 AVRIL 2019 ............................. 159 DIMANCHE 14 AVRIL 2019 ....................... 160 LUNDI 15 AVRIL 2019 ............................... 161 MARDI 16 AVRIL 2019 .............................. 161 MERCREDI 17 AVRIL 2019 ....................... 162 JEUDI 18 AVRIL 2019 ................................. 163 SAMEDI 20 AVRIL 2019 ............................. 169 LUNDI 22 AVRIL 2019 ............................... 170 MARDI 23 AVRIL 2019 .............................. 171 MERCREDI 24 AVRIL 2019 ....................... 172 JEUDI 25 AVRIL 2019 ................................. 172 LUNDI 29 AVRIL 2019 ............................... 174 MARDI 30 AVRIL 2019 .............................. 175 V – MAI 2019 MERCREDI 1ER MAI 2019 ........................... 177 JEUDI 2 MAI 2019 ....................................... 178 SAMEDI 4 MAI 2019 ................................... 179 DIMANCHE 5 MAI 2019 ............................. 179 LUNDI 6 MAI 2019 ...................................... 180 MERCREDI 8 MAI 2019 .............................. 180 JEUDI 9 MAI 2019 ....................................... 180 BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 VENDREDI 10 MAI 2019 ............................ 185 DIMANCHE 12 MAI 2019 ........................... 186 MERCREDI 15 MAI 2019 ........................... 187 JEUDI 16 MAI 2019..................................... 194 SAMEDI 18 MAI 2019................................. 198 DIMANCHE 19 MAI 2019 ........................... 199 MERCREDI 22 MAI 2019 ........................... 199 JEUDI 23 MAI 2019..................................... 201 VENDREDI 24 MAI 2019 ............................ 205 MARDI 28 MAI 2019 .................................. 205 MERCREDI 29 MAI 2019 ........................... 206 JEUDI 30 MAI 2019..................................... 208 VI – JUIN 2019 DIMANCHE 2 JUIN 2019............................. 215 LUNDI 3 JUIN 2019 ..................................... 217 VENDREDI 7 JUIN 2019.............................. 217 LUNDI 10 JUIN 2019 .................................. 218 MERCREDI 12 JUIN 2019 .......................... 220 JEUDI 13 JUIN 2019 .................................... 223 VENDREDI 14 JUIN 2019 ........................... 226 SAMEDI 15 JUIN 2019 ................................ 227 LUNDI 17 JUIN 2019 .................................. 228 MARDI 18 JUIN 2019 ................................. 230 JEUDI 20 JUIN 2019 .................................... 232 VENDREDI 21 JUIN 2019 ........................... 233 SAMEDI 22 JUIN 2019 ................................ 234 DIMANCHE 23 JUIN 2019 .......................... 234 JEUDI 27 JUIN 2019 .................................... 235 VENDREDI 28 JUIN 2019 ........................... 235 MINISTERE DE L’ARCHEOLOGIE ................ 238 MUSEES .......................................................... 246 UNIVERSITES................................................. 248 POUVOIR EXECUTIF ...................................... 249 DIVERS ........................................................... 250 VII – WHO’S WHO ? ………………..….…238 VIII - INDEX ……………………………….…252 8 I – JANVIER 2019 Mercredi 2 janvier 2019 Les amateurs du patrimoine égyptien pourront contempler ses joyaux dans plusieurs nouveaux musées, qui attendent leur inauguration ou leur réouverture en 2019. Un agenda chargé pour le ministère des Antiquités, qui a commencé à concrétiser son plan d’étendre le nombre de musées dans toute l’Égypte en 2018 déjà. Il y a ainsi eu l’inauguration du musée en plein air de l’obélisque de Matariyya, du musée de Matrûh, de celui de Tell Basta et du musée de Suhâg, en plus du réaménagement de l’ancien pavillon de Toutankhamon au Musée Égyptien du Caire et de l’installation des trésors de Youya et Touya à sa place. Et le projet se poursuivra donc en 2019. « C’est une étape exigeante, vu le développement continu en matière de muséologie et de sensibilisation patrimoniale et historique à travers les musées », explique Ilhâm Salâh, chef du secteur des musées au ministère des Antiquités. Le projet consiste ainsi à créer de nouveaux musées et à en rouvrir d’autres — fermés actuellement — et de refaire leur muséologie, notamment suite au transfert d’environ 45 000 pièces antiques vers le nouveau Grand Musée Égyptien (GEM), dont l’ouverture est prévue en 2020. Tell al-Farâ‘în (la colline des pharaons) était un site important de Basse-Égypte, dont il est devenu la capitale à la période prédynastique (3500-3150 av. J.-C.). À cette époque, la cité était l’un des lieux saints les plus importants du Delta. Plus tard, le site a connu de longues périodes d’inoccupation, en particulier de l’Ancien Empire jusqu’à l’époque saïte, comme en témoignent les fouilles effectuées dans la région. « L’histoire de cette ville sera exposée chronologiquement au nouveau musée de Kafr al-Shaykh. La muséologie, basée sur les BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 pièces antiques découvertes, sera unique et portera sur la vie quotidienne, les divinités de cette région et le monde éternel », explique Mahmûd Mabrûk, responsable du scénario muséologique de ce futur musée régional. La construction de ce dernier a été plusieurs fois interrompue à cause du manque de financement depuis le lancement du projet en 2008. Le musée occupera une superficie d’environ 5 000 m2 et le gouvernorat a alloué 30 millions de L.E. pour achever le projet tant attendu par les citoyens. L’inauguration est prévue vers le milieu de l’année 2019. Toujours dans le Delta, dans le gouvernorat d’al-Gharbiyya cette fois, le ministère des Antiquités entreprendra les travaux d’aménagement du Musée de Tantâ, fermé depuis près de 20 ans, dans le but de le rouvrir en 2019. Ce musée renferme 8 579 pièces antiques — exposées ou en dépôt — qui retracent l’histoire de la région depuis les périodes pharaoniques, grecques et romaines. « Les travaux comprendront la restauration architecturale et structurale du bâtiment, qui se compose de cinq étages », souligne Salâh, ajoutant que le comité de muséologie a modifié l’exposition, afin de mettre en valeur les pièces découvertes dans le gouvernorat et racontant son histoire. Dans la ville de Sharm al-Shaykh, le culturel viendra bientôt enrichir l’offre balnéaire. Située dans la péninsule du Sinaï, cette cité charmante attire de nombreux touristes. « Cette ville peut être une destination à la fois balnéaire et patrimoniale », a indiqué le ministre des Antiquités, Khâlid al-‘Inânî, dans un communiqué de presse, en précisant qu’une première partie du musée de Sharm alShaykh devrait être achevée vers la mi-2019. Selon le ministre, ce musée ne doit pas seulement devenir le premier musée archéologique de la ville, mais aussi un centre culturel et un lieu de visite distingué. 9 Janvier 2019 Situé sur la route de l’aéroport, il sera composé de neuf salles d’exposition, en plus d’une grande salle de conférences, d’un théâtre et d’une dizaine de magasins d’artisanat local, ainsi que de bazars. Les travaux ont repris en septembre dernier, après 8 années d’arrêt, suite à la révolution de janvier 2011 et au déficit budgétaire qu’elle a engendré. « Actuellement, le comité chargé de la muséologie est en train de sélectionner les pièces antiques, afin d’exposer des pièces représentatives de l’environnement qui l’entoure », a souligné Salâh. Un autre musée verra lui aussi le jour dans quelques mois au bord de la mer Rouge, à Hurghada. Sa construction avait commencé en 2015, mais le ministère des Antiquités avait dû l’interrompre faute de moyens financiers. Or, un accord — le premier en son genre dans le domaine patrimonial — a été signé avec un investisseur égyptien qui a requis l’anonymat, selon Mustafa Wazîrî, secrétaire général du Conseil Suprême des Antiquités (CSA), pour achever les travaux de construction du musée d’Hurghada. Près de 1 000 pièces y seront exposées. « Ces musées dans des stations balnéaires vont promouvoir le tourisme interne et externe et permettront d’exposer des chefs-d’œuvre stockés dans les entrepôts pour donner l’occasion au grand public de les découvrir », dit Salâh, tout en précisant que l’inauguration du musée d’Hurghada est prévue vers la fin 2019. Est prévue également pour 2019 la réouverture du Musée des Carrosses royaux du Caire, dont les travaux de réaménagement avaient été suspendus faute de budget. Par ailleurs, le Musée national de la Civilisation égyptienne (NMEC) de Fustât sera partiellement inauguré en 2019. « Trois espaces seront ouverts : la galerie centrale, celle des momies royales — après leur transfert du Musée égyptien du Caire — et le musée de la capitale. Ils marqueront l’inauguration partielle du NMEC », a indiqué al-‘Inânî, ajoutant qu’en 2020, ce musée — le premier en son genre dans le monde arabe — verra son inauguration totale. BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Les travaux battent leur plein aussi à Alexandrie, et ce, pour pouvoir rouvrir — probablement aussi en 2019 — le plus important musée consacré à l’archéologie gréco-romaine au monde, le Musée grécoromain, créé en 1892 et fermé depuis 2005 pour travaux d’aménagement. « C’est grâce à un soutien gouvernemental de 120 millions de L.E. que nous avons pu reprendre les travaux de restauration et d’installation des pièces déjà enregistrées, documentées et stockées », déclare Salâh. Enfin, pour ce qui est de la Haute-Égypte, l’Allemagne (plus précisément le Musée de Berlin) a annoncé qu’elle accorderait en 2019 un montant de 10 millions d’euros pour achever les travaux de finition du musée Atonien, dédié au roi du monothéisme Akhnaton, dans le gouvernorat de Minyâ. Un rêve qui date d’il y a près de 40 ans, date du lancement des travaux de construction. La date d’inauguration n’est pas encore connue. Le ministère des Antiquités s’est donc fixé un plan ambitieux. Espérons qu’il pourra être exécuté comme prévu, afin d’accueillir rapidement les visiteurs curieux d’en apprendre plus sur l’histoire et la civilisation égyptiennes. (Nasma Réda, « De nouveaux musées pour l’Égypte », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 2 janvier 2019. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie parachève les travaux du musée de Sharm al-Shaykh en vue de son inauguration l’été prochain », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 16 février). - - Jeudi 3 janvier 2019 People all over the world are still inventing stories about the Great Pyramids and the 10 Janvier 2019 Sphinx that sometimes border on madness, writes Zâhî Hawwâs. because it had been restored to a good condition. Many people today believe that the Sphinx lies on top of evidence about lost civilisations but that the Egyptian authorities and archaeologists are purposefully hiding it. Other groups even go as far as to believe that the Sphinx is 15,000 years old. I have often seen other groups that have received permission to be near the Sphinx early in the morning. One such group was bowing to the statue. The people who made it up were not praying, but they were looking at the Sphinx with great admiration as if they were also admiring ancient Egypt. None of this is true. We are not hiding anything. There have been many requests from New Age individuals to drill under the Sphinx in order to prove our good intentions that Egypt is not hiding anything. But our answer has always been no, because how would anyone benefit from such drilling? When the water table began to rise in front of the Sphinx, we bored 32 holes around the statue. Each went down to the solid rock, or about 15 metres underground, until the drilling had shown that the Sphinx sat on solid rock. Nothing is hidden under it. Therefore, although we see many people who are eager to see what is hidden under the Sphinx, these same people do not want to believe that nothing has been found under it except for four tunnels re-opened for study purposes. Tourists often attend tours with me at 7am in front of the Sphinx to see the smile on its face. Recently, I gave a lecture to an American group and told them the story of the Sphinx’s conservation and how I had worked for 10 years to return the Sphinx to its original shape. I explained that I did not believe that the Sphinx was just another statue made of stone. Instead, I believe that it is made of living rock. I told them the story of when the Sphinx lost its shoulder. I had often gazed upon the Sphinx; deep down, it had seemed to me that the Sphinx was crying because of the poor restoration work that my predecessors had carried out on it, especially those who had poured cement over its body. A team of restorers carried out a beautiful restoration. When I gazed at the Sphinx after the restoration, I saw that it was smiling BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Many people want to get married in front of the Sphinx. Matt LAUER, the famous American TV presenter, once called me to say that Greg NORMAN and Chris EVERT, famous for their achievements in golf and tennis, wanted to meet me and to get married in front of the Sphinx. They came to Egypt, and after we had taken some photographs, I told EVERT, jokingly, that the Sphinx could pronounce curses. “You will get divorced three months from now,” I said. She said, “No, I am in love with Greg.” Nevertheless, they really did get divorced a few months later. It seemed as if the curse had come true. I once met an American group that belonged to the Rosicrucians. They entered the Great Pyramid alone and meditated. However, many members of the group were also crying. When I asked the reason why, they said they were repenting for their mistakes and that they had come to Egypt on pilgrimage. When the first of the Rosicrucians came to Egypt, he entered the Pyramid of Khufu. This group left the Pyramid at sunrise, and they happily stood in front of the Sphinx watching its face receive the rays of the sun. Many expeditions have brought radar equipment to see if there is anything hidden under the Sphinx. They also did not find anything. Edgar CAYCE, an American clairvoyant, had followers who believed that there was a box hidden under the right paw of the Sphinx. These followers believed that the box contained the science of the lost civilisation of Atlantis, and they got permission from the Egyptian Antiquities Organisation to drill under the statue. 11 Janvier 2019 The drilling took place near the right paw, and unsurprisingly it found nothing. A team from Waseda University in Japan also used radar to investigate the area around the Sphinx, but this proved to be to no avail. They also drilled under the right paw, but then changed their mind, claiming they needed to drill under the left paw instead. Let us also not forget that there was a lot of noise in 2000 about archaeological evidence that would allegedly be discovered under the Sphinx. Again, nothing happened. An American friend of mine once informed me that nine Americans, three ladies and six men, all New Agers who called themselves “psychics”, were fascinated with ancient Egypt and had visited the country. They visited the Cairo Museum first and looked at the Old Kingdom objects. One of them was a lady called Carol AMON. The psychics said that the Stanford Research Institute in the US had claimed that this lady could “break” laser rays with her bare hands. When she visited special places, she felt connected with them and her soul would fly out of her body leaving her unable to control it, they said. When this lady stood in front of the Sphinx, she felt re-incarnated and connected with the past. She began to say that she was living in ancient times. The other eight followed her, each claiming to have his or her own miracle to perform. They said that Carol AMON had become unconscious, feeling that she was in the past and producing drawings depicting the construction of the Pyramids and the Sphinx thousands of years ago. Lo and behold, the ancient Egyptians were able to find the drawings and use them to build the Great Pyramid, she said. An English writer also once described his visit to the Sphinx. He foretold that in November 1999 the sky would be full of shooting stars that would kill anything in the sky as a punishment. According to him, all communication through the air would stop, and the world would not be able to communicate. BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 However, nothing happened. The writer did not explain the reason for this failure. Today, we are hearing about a group of Poles and Americans who claim that they will discover material under the Pyramids that can save the world. They are collecting money from people all around the world to do so, but once again they are engaged in deception. From all this, we can see how many people have created stories that have nothing to do with the truth of the Pharaohs. I call this “Pharaoh madness”. (Zâhî Hawwâs, “The madness of the Pharaohs”, Al-Ahram Weekly, January 3, 2019). - - The block that the National Museum of Scotland claims is part of the Great Pyramid’s casing The supervisor-general of Egypt’s Antiquities Repatriation Department, Sha‘bân ‘Abd al-Gawwâd, has told Ahram Online that Egypt will send an official inquiry to Scotland asking for a certificate of possession and export documents for a casing stone purportedly from the Great Pyramid of Gîza. The BBC reported earlier today that the National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh will display on 8 February a casing stone from the Great Pyramid of Khufu, which will be displayed for the first time outside of Egypt along with other ancient Egyptian artefacts. ‘Abd al-Gawwâd said that the Egyptian law for the protection of antiquities stipulates that trading or exporting antiquities is a crime, and if the block is found to have been smuggled out the country, all procedures will be taken to return it home. Renowned Egyptologist Zâhî Hawwâs asserted to Ahram Online that the block could 12 Janvier 2019 not be from the Great Pyramid, whose outer layer was destroyed over the centuries. “There is no image showing the casing of the Great Pyramid," Hawwâs said, adding that the outer layer of the pyramid was made of granite, like the pyramids of Khafre and Menkaure, and not of limestone as the National Museum of Scotland claims. Hawwâs added that the only remaining casing from the Gîza pyramids is found at the top of the Khafre pyramid and the lower part of the Menkaure pyramid. (Nevine El-Aref, “Egypt to send official inquiry over alleged pyramid stone to be displayed at Scottish museum”, Ahram Online, January 3, 2019. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie : Le bloc de Chéops conservé en Écosse est sorti d’Égypte depuis 153 ans », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 4 janvier ; Mikaël Girgis, « L’Écosse expose un fragment de la Grande Pyramide », Watanî, 4 janvier ; Nasma Réda, « Annonce choc au Musée d’Édimbourg », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 16 janvier ; Mira Maged, “Rare Pyramid stone displayed at National Museum of Scotland”, Egypt Independent, February 8). - - Samedi 5 janvier 2019 impressive archaeological sites, such as Aswân, Luxor, and Pyramids, in addition to Wâdî al-Mulûk, the tomb of the King Ramesses VIII, and Thutmose II; the husband of the Pharaoh Hatshepsut and the king Ramesses III.” Moreover, Hawwâs accompanied them in a touristic tour to see the tomb of Tutankhamun, Ramesses VI, and Seti I, as well as the western valley where the tomb of Amenhotep III and the King Ay locate. Furthermore, Hawwâs denoted a book recounting the life of Noble tombs in the western bank in Luxor to the King Felipe and two books to his children. He also gave his discovery helmet, which he wore during his most prominent archaeological discoveries, to the King as a gift. Needless to say, Philippe of Belgium and his wife queen Mathilde and their four children visited Egypt three day ago where they visited the Pyramids, Sphinx and the Cellar region in which the King was so keen to descend it to see the timeless treasures of Pharaohs. (Fatma El-Bakry, “Egypt is safe, the Belgium Royal family visit is evidence: Hawwâs”, Egypt Today, January 5, 2019). - - Dimanche 6 janvier 2019 © Reporters “Egypt is safe; the Belgium Royal family visit to Egypt to spend their annual vacation here is undoubted evidence that Egypt is the best place to visit,” Zâhî Hawwâs, the Egyptian archaeologist, said. Photo credit: CertifiKid The Egyptologist, and former Minister of State for Antiquities Affairs, stated in as statement after the end of the Belgium Royal Family visit to Egypt, “I accompanied the royal family throughout their visit to the most BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 According to local news outlet Egypt Today, the exhibition of Tutankhamun is set to tour ten cities in seven European countries. 13 Janvier 2019 Although it is not yet clear which countries or cities, it is known that the temporary exhibition “King Tut: Treasures of the Golden Pharaoh” will be moved from California to Paris in March 2019. However, this is not the first traveling exhibition that the country is sending abroad. The interim exhibition will be displayed at La Grande Halle de la Villette in Paris on March 18, 2019 through September 30, 2019. It currently located at the California Science Center although it is managed by the Egyptian Ministry of Antiquities and companies Exhibitions International and IMG. The exhibition, which racked up $US 5 million and was visited by more than 500,000 visitors, was first exhibited on March 24, 2018 on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of King Tutankhamun’s tomb discovery by Howard CARTER. Its purpose was not only to foster international cultural relations with countries worldwide but to also promote tourism to Egypt and assist with the funding of the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM). Tourism constitutes a significant segment of Egypt’s economy; many tourists travel to Egypt to visit its ancient sites, museum and temples. Moreover, some 60 objects from the exhibition are traveling outside of the country for the first and last time before being housed permanently at the GEM. (“King Tut Exhibit To Tour Seven European Countries”, Egyptian Streets, January 6, 2019. Voir également Ghâda Suwaylam, « La France s’apprête à accueillir la plus grande exposition des trésors de Toutankhamon », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 4 janvier ; Ahram Ibrâhîm, « Paris annonce l’organisation d’une exposition de Toutankhamon », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 5 janvier ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Après 52 ans d’absence, Paris expose les trésors de Toutankhamon », Sada al-Balad, 8 janvier). - - ”To celebrate the 100th year anniversary of discovering the tomb of the Boy King Tutankhamun, as a part of the celebration, Egypt is sending 150 masterpieces to tour all over the world. Please see them, visit them, before they return back to Egypt forever,” said Mustafa Wazîrî, Secretary General of the Ministry of State for Antiquities, according to PR News. It is set to travel to Australia, Canada, Japan and South Korea as well. The exhibit collection features shrine, wooden statues of the king, items from his every day life such as his gilded be, weaponry, furniture and jewellery. The traveling exhibition previously stirred controversy as Egyptians expressed their concern that Egypt’s artifacts were not properly insured or were liable to danger. BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Le président du département des antiquités islamiques, coptes et juives, Dr Gamâl Mustafa, a inspecté le siège de l’Organisme du Canal de Suez, classé sur la liste du patrimoine en 2004. Le responsable a été accompagné par le directeur général des antiquités de Basse-Égypte, Dr Muhammad Tamân, et quelques ingénieurs de The Arab Contractors Osman Ahmed Osman & Co. Le Comité permanent des antiquités avait confié à cette compagnie du BTP la 14 Janvier 2019 restauration du siège de l’Organisme du Canal de Suez, sous la supervision du ministère de l’Archéologie. Ce projet sera financé par l’Organisme du Canal. Soulignons que le siège de l’Organisme du Canal est situé dans le Ier arrondissement de la ville d’Ismâ‘îliyya, juste derrière le rest-house de Ferdinand DE LESSEPS. Inauguré en 1869, ce bâtiment est un mélange d’architectures arabo-islamique et européenne. (Ahmad Mansûr, « Lancement du projet de restauration du siège de l’Organisme du Canal de Suez », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 6 janvier 2019. Voir également Yûsuf ‘Afîfî, « Lancement du projet de restauration du siège de l’Organisme du Canal de Suez », Masrâwî, 6 janvier ; Samar al-Naggâr, « Début des travaux de restauration du siège historique de l’Organisme du Canal de Suez », al-Masrî alYawm, 6 janvier ; Ahmad ‘Uthmân, « Lancement du projet de restauration du siège de l’Organisme du Canal de Suez », alWafd, 6 janvier ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Lancement du projet de restauration du siège de l’Organisme du Canal de Suez », Sada alBalad, 6 janvier). - - Prime Minister held a meeting on Sunday to follow up the latest developments on some projects carried out by the Antiquities Ministry, BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 in the presence of the Antiquities Minister Khâlid al-‘Inânî, the Chairman of the Engineering Committee of the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) and the Assistant Minister of Antiquities. At the beginning of the meeting, Madbûlî said that President ‘Abd al-Fattâh al-Sîsî mandated the government to produce an integrated vision for the development of the ancient Saqqâra archaeological area, and to provide all the various services required by visitors there, in addition to developing the Maryûtiyya road leading to Saqqâra. Madbûlî pointed to his recent visit to the area, which is full of many sites and important archaeological tombs, and the discoveries that have received extensive international media coverage. He stressed the importance of completing the developmental projects and the restoration of archaeological sites across Egypt according to the timetables set for them, thus contributing to the growth of incoming tourism. During the meeting, the Antiquities Minister presented a report on the executive and financial position of a number of projects implemented by the ministry, particularly the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) project due to open in 2020. al-‘Inânî pointed out that the completion rate of engineering works reached 88 percent, while the structural work (concrete and metal) have been fully completed and the internal and external finishes are being carried out. He added that efforts have been made to develop the archaeological area of the pyramids plateau, which is being implemented in cooperation with the Armed Forces Engineering Authority in preparation for the opening of the GEM, adding that the site is ready for opening. (“Sîsî commissions Egyptian government to develop Saqqâra area: Prime Minister”, Egypt Independent, January 6, 2019). - 15 Janvier 2019 Mardi 8 janvier 2019 L’inspecteur en chef des antiquités de Sâhil Silîm, Emad B., âgé de 57 ans, a été arrêté par les policiers de la préfecture d’Asyût. Il a été pris en flagrant délit dans une cafétéria au moment de toucher un pot-de-vin de M. K., en échange de l’octroi d’un terrain appartenant au Conseil Suprême des Antiquités. Lors d’une confrontation, l’accusé a reconnu les faits. Une enquête criminelle est ouverte. (Mamdûh Thâbit, « Arrestation de l’inspecteur en chef des antiquités de Sâhil Silîm pour pot-de-vin », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 8 janvier 2019. Voir également Yûnis Darwîsh, « L’inspecteur en chef des antiquités de Sâhil Silîm pris la main dans le sac », al-Shurûq, 11 janvier ; Su‘âd Ahmad, « L’inspecteur en chef des antiquités de Sâhil Silîm mis en examen pour trafic d’influence », al-Watan, 15 janvier). - - remplir le vide et de reconstituer les têtes », explique Husayn. Ce projet d’anastylose a débuté il y a six mois. Selon, Mustafa Wazîrî, secrétaire général du Conseil Suprême des Antiquités (CSA), il est probable que ces statues aient été détruites et dépourvues de leurs têtes lors du règne perse du roi Cambyse II (529-522 av. J.C.), qui a conquis l’Égypte en 525 et a régné comme pharaon. La grande cour de Ramsès II est de 57 m de long et 50 m de large. Elle renferme une double rangée de 74 colonnes lisses à chapiteaux papyriformes fermés, entre lesquelles se dressent 11 colosses en granit noir appartenant à Ramsès II et à Aménophis III. « Les experts égyptiens sont habitués et sont expérimentés non seulement à la restauration des statues colossales, mais aussi au travail d’anastylose pour rendre aux monuments leur aspect d’autrefois, surtout après leur expérience réussie du rassemblement des deux statues debout toujours du roi Ramsès II devant le premier pylône du temple de Louqsor en avril 2017 et 2018 », conclut Wazîrî. (Nasma Réda, « Ramsès II retrouve ses têtes perdues », AlAhram Hebdo du 9 janvier 2019). - - Mercredi 9 janvier 2019 Deux têtes appartenant à des statues colossales du roi Ramsès II dans le temple de Louqsor ont été déposées la semaine dernière à leur emplacement d’origine. Celles-ci étaient situées depuis leurs découvertes au XXe siècle dans le parterre de la grande cour de Ramsès II. Chaque tête pèse environ 250 kg. « Le fait de les poser sur des colosses de 7 m de hauteur était un grand défi pour les restaurateurs », souligne Muhammad Husayn, directeur général de restauration du temple de Louqsor, ajoutant que cette opération d’anastylose des têtes exigeait une maind’œuvre habile pour les poser sans intervention technique ou de lourdes machines. « Il y avait de profondes fissures dans le visage des statues, on a réussi, avec des matériaux semblables à l’original, de BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 A handout picture released by the Egyptian Ministry of Antiquities on January 9, 2019. (Photo: AFP) Egypt has retrieved an ancient artefact illegally smuggled out of the country after being displayed at an auction hall in London, the antiquities ministry said. The piece, a cartouche of King Amenhotep I, was identified following observation of 16 Janvier 2019 international auction websites, the ministry said in a statement on Tuesday. “The ministry took all the necessary measures to stop the sale of the relief and withdraw it from auction,” it added. The ministry did not elaborate on when or how the artefact was stolen and smuggled out of the country. The relic was earlier exhibited at the open museum of the ancient temple of Karnak in the southern city of Luxor, the ministry’s repatriation department director Sha‘bân ‘Abd al-Gawwâd said. The Egyptian embassy in London received the piece last September following coordination between the foreign ministry, the embassy and British authorities, ‘Abd alGawwâd added. (“Egypt retrieves smuggled ancient artefact from London auction”, Ahram Online, January 9, 2019. Voir également Ragab Ramadân, « Londres restitue à l’Égypte une pièce volée d’Amenhotep Ier », al-Masrî alYawm, 8 janvier ; Mustafa Marie, “Ministry of Antiquities managed to restore stolen artefact”, Egypt Today, January 8; Ahmad Mansûr, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie récupère une pièce antique volée mise aux enchères à Londres », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 8 janvier ; “Antique stone of King Amenhotep I retrieved from UK auction: Ministry”, Egypt Independent, January 8; Muhammad ‘Abd alMu‘tî, « Le CSA récupère de Londres un cartouche d’Amenhotep Ier », al-Ahrâm, 9 janvier ; “Artefact Smuggled from Karnak Temple is Now Returned to Egypt”, Egyptian Streets, January 9). - - BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Des chaises roulantes circulant dans les allées des temples de Karnak. Jusque-là inimaginable, cette scène fera désormais partie du tableau de l’un des plus beaux sites d’Égypte. Après huit mois de travail, et dans le cadre d’un projet lancé par le ministère des Antiquités visant à réaménager les sites archéologiques pour les rendre accessibles aux visiteurs à mobilité réduite, toutes les allées des temples de Karnak ont été pavées avec de nouvelles pierres. « Après avoir terminé les travaux de dallage dans l’endroit du parking, le chemin des béliers et l’entrée du temple, on a commencé, il y a quelques mois, à enlever les petites pierres dans les couloirs des temples pour les daller, on a aussi couvert les rampes sablonneuses par de grands blocs lisses pour faciliter le déplacement des chaises roulantes des personnes à mobilité réduite », explique Mustafa al-Saghîr, directeur des temples de Karnak, le plus grandiose et le plus complexe des ensembles religieux de l’Égypte ancienne. Ce projet entamé par le ministère des Antiquités est fait en coopération avec l’ONG Hilm (rêve). Il vise également à réhabiliter le musée et le temple de Louqsor dans le cadre de l’initiative « Partez », ciblant le tourisme des personnes à mobilité réduite. « Il s’agit de la première réalisation concrète résultant de la collaboration entre le ministère des Antiquités et l’ONG Hilm, pour rendre le patrimoine culturel facilement accessible aux handicapés ainsi qu’aux personnes âgées », assure Mustafa Wazîrî, secrétaire général du Conseil Suprême des Antiquités (CSA), ajoutant que le travail continuera dans toutes les allées du temple. En plus des allées, des pancartes explicatives à la hauteur des handicapés seront placées convenablement et le secteur du tourisme y adaptera des services spéciaux pour leur confort comme des places de repos. En fait, l’Organisation mondiale du tourisme (OMT) cherche à rendre accessibles toutes les installations, produits et services touristiques, qui devraient être une composante centrale de toute politique de tourisme durable, et ce, d’autant plus que, d’après l’Organisation mondiale de la santé 17 Janvier 2019 (OMS), 15 % de la population mondiale (soit 1 milliard de personnes) souffrent d’un handicap. « Les touristes en handicap peuvent atteindre plus de 10 % du total des touristes visitant l’Égypte. Il y a de grandes opportunités pour promouvoir ce genre de tourisme en Égypte, vu l’intérêt accordé par l’État aux personnes souffrant d’un handicap de manière générale », souligne Muhammad ‘Uthmân, vice-président de la Chambre des compagnies touristiques à Louqsor qui a apprécié cette étape d’aménagement des sites archéologiques, faite par le ministère des Antiquités, et qui devra être suivie d’assurer la prise en compte des recommandations de l’OMT en faveur d’un tourisme accessible à tous par la sensibilisation des guides touristiques et les travailleurs dans le secteur du tourisme et des antiquités. (Nasma Réda, « Louqsor s’équipe pour accueillir les visiteurs handicapés », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 9 janvier 2019). - - Head of the Museums Department at the Ministry of Antiquities Ilhâm Salâh al-Dîn will inaugurate a temporary exhibition entitled "Rediscovering the Dead" on Jan 10 at 6 p.m. at the Egyptian Museum in Tahrîr Square. The exhibition is scheduled to run until the end of January. According to Salâh al-Dîn, the exhibition is the first of its kind within the Egyptian Museum, where it will be the first time to display 15 different skulls of both genders and different age groups. The skulls are nearly 6,000 years old. The exhibition also includes the 21,000 year-old skeleton found in Wâdî alBIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Qubbâniyya in Aswân, which is the second oldest skeleton in the world. In addition, a Roman era mummy of a child layered with gold that was discovered in Akhmîm City in Upper Egypt will also be displayed during the exhibition. Director of the museum Sabâh ‘Abd alRâziq described the exhibition as educational as it sheds light on the importance of organic archaeology in ancient Egyptian history. Important information could be obtained from human remains in various archaeological sites, according to ‘Abd al-Râziq. ‘Abd al-Râziq pointed out that the exhibition deals with four different topics: age and sex assessments to clarify gender and age differences, in addition to how to obtain such information through skulls. The second topic is focusing on different diseases and their effects on skulls. The third and fourth topics, according to ‘Abd al-Râziq, shed light on the process of embalming and gathering data on the location of the artifacts. The exhibition includes a collection of embalmed human remains, highlighting some unique embalming techniques. (Mustafa Marie, “‘Rediscovering the Dead’ at Egyptian Museum on Jan. 10”, Egypt Today, January 9, 2019. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « Pour la première fois, 15 crânes exposés au Musée Égyptien », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 9 janvier ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Exposition de 15 crânes au Musée Égyptien », Sada al-Balad, 11 janvier). - - Malgré l’importance historique de l’ancienne ville de Minqabâd, celle-ci reste peu connue par le grand public. Située entre la rive ouest du Nil et la montagne, à 7 km au nord-ouest d’Asyût, en Moyenne-Égypte, la ville de Minqabâd renferme les vestiges du monastère d’Abou-Nefer (l’ermite Onuphrios en grec). « Bien que les enseignements d’Abou-Nefer soient répandus partout dans le bassin méditerranéen — en Italie, en Turquie, en Allemagne — et même aux États-Unis, le monastère de Minqabâd est l’unique évidence 18 Janvier 2019 archéologique qui porte son nom trouvée sur le territoire égyptien jusqu’à présent », déclare ‘Izzat Salîb, ex-directeur général du département de restauration au ministère des Antiquités. Par ailleurs, l’abbé Nefer est l’unique saint qui porte un nom en hiéroglyphe, qui veut dire « le beau chef ». C’est la vaste superficie du monastère, qui est de 86 feddans, soit 92 000 m2, l’état déplorable de ses vestiges et son importance historique qui ont poussé une mission égyptoitalienne, en 2011, à lancer un projet de restauration, de préservation et de valorisation de toute la ville antique, afin de la protéger. Ce projet est financé par le ministère italien des Affaires étrangères ainsi que le Département des études asiatiques, africaines et méditerranéennes et le Centre interdépartemental des services pour l’archéologie de l’Universita’ degli Studi di Napoli ‘L’Orientale’. Le budget change d’une année à l’autre, en fonction des possibilités des institutions concernées. « Bien que le projet ait démarré en 2011, seules deux missions ont travaillé sur le chantier, l’une en 2014, et une autre qui a repris les travaux fin 2018 », explique Rosanna PIRELLI, directrice de la mission égyptoitalienne de l’Universita’ degli Studi di Napoli ‘L’Orientale’, qui opère à Minqabâd. « Bien que la mission ait l’autorisation de nettoyer le site et de le préserver, sans faire la moindre fouille, de nombreux objets ont été trouvés », précise son adjointe, Paola BUZI, de l’Università degli Studi di Roma “La Sapienza”. L’enceinte du monastère d’Abou-Nefer comprend des églises, des ermitages et des réfectoires qui sont encerclés par une épaisse muraille de 340 x 270 m. Au centre de cette enceinte se trouvait un grand bâtiment, connu sous le nom de « qasr », ce qui signifie le palais — la seule construction en pierre rouge de toute la cité. Les archéologues pensent que ce qasr a été fondé vers la fin du IVe ou au Ve siècle et qu’il a été abandonné à l’époque romaine tardive. Abou-Nefer l’a sélectionné afin d’y mener sa vie d’ermite. Une vie qui a duré 70 ans. BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 « C’est probablement la résidence où ont vécu ensuite les chefs du monastère qui sont venus après Abou-Nefer », assure Salîb. « En dehors de cette enceinte se trouvait aussi un grand nombre de manshûbiyyas — de petits monastères — en brique crue, et formés de deux ou trois étages qui, à leur tour, étaient encerclés par une autre grande muraille. Chaque manshûbiyya était habitée par un grand ermite accompagné de trois ou quatre de ses élèves », précise Salîb, ajoutant que pour 10 manshûbiyyas, il y avait une église pour la prière. À l’origine, ce secteur abritait 40 manshûbiyyas, et au fil du temps, elles ont été transformées en habitations. « À l’époque ottomane, ces constructions sont devenues des logements militaires. Le lieu a vu une grande bataille entre les Mamelouks et les troupes égyptiennes de la région vers le début du XIXe siècle. La fin des Mamelouks en Haute-Égypte est marquée par cette bataille », souligne Salîb. C’est la raison pour laquelle la partie nord de la cité est riche en couches archéologiques qui retracent son histoire. L’une représentation de la Vierge trouvée dans l’une des églises Lors des travaux de nettoyage et de restauration, les membres de la mission ont découvert des images religieuses ornant les murs de ces logements. Celle de la Vierge est la plus fréquente. En outre, la mission a mis au jour une peinture représentant la Vierge, Saint Jérémie et les archanges Michaël et Gabriel, ainsi que des scènes montrant d’autres saints. « Parmi les trouvailles les plus précieuses figurent les ornements floraux et géométriques qui décorent les fenêtres et les portes des logements, ainsi que des vases ornés bien conservés », souligne Paola BUZI. 19 Janvier 2019 D’après les archéologues, le monastère d’Abou-Nefer, voire le site de Minqabâd, était fréquemment visité au fil des siècles. « Le prince voyageur Ahmad Kamâl Pacha l’a visité vers les débuts du XXe siècle », indique Rosanna PIRELLI. En 1975, une mission égyptienne, dirigée par l’archéologue ‘Abd al-Rahmân ‘Abd alTawwâb, a dégagé « les vestiges de plusieurs églises et lieux d’ermitage datant du IVe au VIIe siècles, des maisons coptes, des pressoirs ainsi que les vestiges d’une mosquée dont le style architectural se rapproche de celui d’une chapelle », explique Dr Ahmad ‘Awad, directeur général des monuments islamiques et coptes à Asyût. Neuf ans plus tard, en 1984, une nouvelle mission a dégagé à Minqabâd les vestiges d’une autre église et d’autres lieux d’ermitage, dont les murs sont ornés de décorations et de fresques narratives. En 2010, une troisième mission égyptienne a opéré sur le site. Selon PIRELLI, les missions égyptiennes ont mis au jour quatre églises de style basilique, dont les chapiteaux des colonnes de forme corinthienne sont ornés de feuilles de raisins et de palmiers. Les autels de ces églises sont ornés de peintures de saints, de caractères coptes et de versets de l’Évangile. Par ailleurs, une liste des saints du VIIe siècle a été trouvé : Appa Jérémie, Appa Enoch, Amma Sybilla et l’archange Michaël, « qui sont aussi les saints vénérés au monastère d’Appa Jérémie, à Saqqâra », souligne PIRELLI. Les missions égyptiennes ont également dégagé des réfectoires, des rangées d’ermitages, des habitations et des pièces de monnaie en or. Ces dernières sont exposées au musée d’Art islamique du Caire et au Musée de Mallawî de Minyâ. Sans oublier les 600 épitaphes en copte et conservés dans les dépôts du ministère des Antiquités. Parmi les trouvailles les plus importantes et intéressantes faites par les missions égyptiennes se trouve un bain romain avec tous ses équipements architecturaux et réseaux sanitaires. « Nous sommes en quête du lien entre les saints du monastère d’AbouBIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Nefer et le bain romain », affirme la directrice de la mission égypto-italienne. En fait, les travaux de la mission sont préliminaires, alors que les prochaines saisons devraient permettre de découvrir davantage de secrets. L’objectif essentiel de la mission est de mieux étudier la partie nord des logements tout en les préservant. « Nous sommes également très intéressés à comprendre les différentes phases de construction du monastère. Nous voulons protéger et valoriser le site, afin qu’il fasse partie des circuits touristiques et culturels. C’est un site archéologique merveilleux, qui mérite d’être visité », conclut la directrice. (Doaa Elhami, « Sur les traces d’Abou-Nefer », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 9 janvier 2019). - - Une collection de douze médailles retraçant le trajet de la Sainte Famille en Égypte a été lancée par le ministère des Finances en coopération avec le ministère des Antiquités. Cette collection de médailles en argent 900 (soit un alliage contenant 90 % d’argent pur) est vendue à 8 000 L.E. au Musée de l’Organisme de la frappe de la monnaie. « Ces médailles retracent une partie du chemin de pèlerinage copte ouvert il y a un an par le ministère du Tourisme et approuvée par le pape du Vatican. Au cours de ce voyage, la Sainte Famille a résidé dans plus de 25 endroits, dont 8 ont été aménagés par le ministère des Antiquités pour faire partie du programme de visite », explique Gamâl Mustafa, chef du secteur islamique, copte et juif au ministère des Antiquités. Chaque médaille montre, sur l’une de ses faces, une représentation de saint Joseph et de la Vierge Marie portant l’Enfant Jésus ainsi que le nom d’un des sites, et la phrase, tirée de la Bible, « Béni mon peuple l’Égypte ». Quant à l’autre face, elle représente le site en question. La Sainte Famille a quitté Bethléem pour l’Égypte, où elle a commencé son voyage depuis le nord du Sinaï. Pour le retour vers la Palestine, la Sainte Famille a emprunté 20 Janvier 2019 pratiquement le même parcours, après trois ans passés en Égypte. Les douze sites représentés sur les médailles sont al-Farmâ, dans la péninsule du Sinaï, Tell Basta, à al-Sharqiyya, Sakhâ, à Kafr al-Shaykh, Wâdî al-Natrûn, à al-Buhayra, Samannûd, à al-Gharbiyya, Abou Sirga, Matariyya et Ma‘âdî, au Caire, al-Ashmûnayn et Gabal al-Tayr, à Minyâ, et Dayr al-Muharraq et Drunkâ, à Asyût. Ces lieux sont actuellement, presque tous, soit des églises, soit des monastères. « Ces sites sont considérés comme des lieux saints et sont classés sur la liste archéologique égyptienne », souligne Salâh Ramadân, conservateur au Musée de l’Organisme de la frappe de la monnaie, assurant que la collection de médailles sera suivie d’autres qui retraceront le reste des sites. Un exemplaire de la collection a été offert au pape Tawadros II, pape d’Alexandrie et patriarche de l’Église copte orthodoxe, qui a salué cette initiative en voie de la promotion touristique. (Nasma Réda, « Le trajet de la Sainte Famille en 12 médailles », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 9 janvier 2019). - - Les travaux de restauration viennent de prendre fin dans la chapelle de la barque sacrée du roi Amenhotep III de la XVIIIe dynastie du Nouvel Empire dans le temple de Louqsor. Les travaux consistaient à nettoyer les murs et les renforcer, enlever les couches de ciment, documenter la chapelle ainsi que la cour à côté. Les scènes gravées représentant le roi rendant hommage au dieu Amon ont pris leurs couleurs d’autrefois. Les restaurateurs commenceront leurs travaux de nettoyage des murs dans quelques jours dans la chapelle d’Alexandre le Grand (332-323). (« En bref », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 9 janvier 2019). - - Les travaux de restauration et de développement du temple d’Isnâ, situé sur la rive ouest du Nil, à environ 55 km au sud de Louqsor, ont commencé début décembre. Ces travaux visent à mettre en relief les peintures BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 uniques du temple en nettoyant les murs et la réinstallation des blocs de pierre tombés au fil du temps. Ce temple, dédié au dieu Khnoum, date de l’époque ptolémaïque. C’est Ptolémée VIII qui commença sa construction, terminée durant la domination romaine. (« En bref », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 9 janvier 2019. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie lance la restauration du temple d’Isnâ », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 21 mars). - - La première mission archéologique chinoise opérant en Égypte a commencé ses travaux de fouilles le 1er décembre dans le temple de Montou, à Louqsor. Selon Mustafa al-Saghîr, directeur des temples de Karnak, les Chinois disposent d’une vaste expertise dans le domaine de fouille. Il est à noter qu’en octobre dernier, un protocole a été signé par le ministère égyptien des Antiquités, d’une part, et la Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (CASS), d’autre part, visant à accroître les activités culturelles, patrimoniales et éducatives conjointes. (« En bref », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 9 janvier 2019. Voir également « Khâlid al-‘Inânî : Coopération réussie avec la Chine dans le domaine archéologique », Sada al-Balad, 4 mars). - - Jeudi 10 janvier 2019 Among the Islamic monuments in the busy Cairo district of Bâb al-Khalq stands the 19thcentury edifice of the Egyptian National Library and Archives (NLA) built in 1904 and the first to be built in the Arab world. For four years this splendid Islamic building has been hidden under scaffolding to repair 21 Janvier 2019 the structural damage that occurred after a car bomb exploded outside the adjacent Cairo Security Directorate building. The blast destroyed the NLA’s decorative façade in several Islamic architectural styles, a number of showcases and furniture inside the building, seven manuscripts and three rare scientific papyri, as well as the ventilation and lighting system of the building. With a grant of some LE50 million from Sharjah ruler Sultan bin Muhammad al-Qâsimî, the NLA has now been restored to its original glory so that it can continue its role of welcoming visitors and researchers and preserving much of the nation’s intangible heritage. Prime Minister Mustafa Madbûlî along with Sultan bin Muhammad al-Qâsimî and Minister of Culture Înâs ‘Abd al-Dâyyim are scheduled to re-open the NLA after its restoration and refurbishment in early February. adding that it would now be able to continue its major role and meet the needs of researchers, especially the young researchers that frequent its library. Supervisor of the restoration project ‘Ayda Ahmad described the NLA as a “cultural and scientific beacon for research” as well as a panorama of the country’s rare manuscript collections. She told Al-Ahram Weekly that January 2014 had turned into a nightmare when an explosion near the adjacent Cairo Security Directorate led to severe structural damage to the building’s façade, furniture and a few of its manuscripts. The Museum of Islamic Art (MIA), which shares the same building, was restored, rehabilitated and re-inaugurated in 2017. The restoration and rehabilitation work on the NLA was put on hold and started in January 2016 after the approval of the grant offered by Sultan bin Muhammad al-Qâsimî. However, “the NLA never closed its doors to visitors during the restoration work,” Ahmad pointed out. Egyptian National Library and Archives (NLA) On Sunday, ‘Abd al-Dâyyim embarked on a tour around the different sections of the NLA to inspect the work being achieved before the opening. She thanked the Sharjah ruler for what he had done for the restoration of the NLA and promised that several inspection tours would be made before the re-opening in February. During the tour she announced Egypt’s success in recovering a Mameluke manuscript put on auction at the auctioneers Sotheby’s in London after it had been proved it belonged to the NLA. “The building is a remarkable edifice that integrates historical architecture with modernity,” ‘Abd al-Dâyyim said of the NLA, BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 She said that in collaboration with NLA staff, the Thesaurus Islamic Foundation (TIF) had assisted with the preservation, conservation and redesign of the display of the NLA’s manuscript collection on show at the MIA. It also provided 3D digital screens to display digital copies of some of the NLA’s manuscripts, documents and papyri. A new lighting system was installed as well as the display themes and the location of the showcases. In addition, Ahmad said, all the widows of the MIA were covered with a special material to prevent dust and sunlight from penetrating inside the building and negatively affecting the collections. A new visitor route inside the museum was also developed. The TIF helped in an earlier restoration project in 2007 that included the re-design and re-equipping of the NLA’s two preservation and conservation laboratories, including imaging facilities, designing and equipping a new conservation laboratory, redesigning and re-equipping the manuscript 22 Janvier 2019 storage exhibition areas, helping with the professional development of the NLA’s preservation, conservation and exhibition staff, cataloguing selected areas of the manuscript collection, and preparing publications and promotional materials. THE COLLECTIONS: The NLA is the largest manuscript collection in the Arab world and one of the most important collections of Islamic manuscripts worldwide. Among the manuscripts on display are the Canon of Medicine by Ibn Sînâ (980-1037 CE), the 10th-century Book of Songs by al-Isfahânî, a copy of the 10th-century Persian epic Shahnameh by Ferdowsi, and Ten Treatises on Ophthalmology by Hunayn Ibn Ishâq (809-873 CE), which provides treatments for eye diseases along with drawings of the eyes and descriptions of their different parts. A collection of distinguished copies of the Quran from different periods, especially the Mameluke period, is also in the NLA, along with a 150kg silver cover of the Quran gifted by an Indian ruler to former king Fârûq in 1950. In the distinguished collection on display at the MIA, there is a model of the Dome of the Rock in Jerusalem decorated with precious stones and inside it an octagonal copy of the Quran considered as the smallest ever made. Also on display is a collection of coins showing visitors both sides of every coin. Photographs of some of these are on show on the digital screens provided. The displays in the NLA have been developed, among them of books belonging to former minister of culture Tharwat ‘Ukâsha, BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Islamic reformer Muhammad ‘Abdu, and from the library of ‘Âbidîn Palace in Cairo. Since the khedive Ismâ‘îl took the initiative to build Egypt’s NLA, modelled on the National Library in Paris, in the 19th century, it has been a treasure house of manuscripts, rare books and ancient Egyptian papyri. Opened in 1870 at the suggestion of writer Rifâ‘ alTahtâwî (1801-1872) to build a national library in Egypt, it was first under the supervision of writer and politician ‘Alî Mubârak. Valuable collections of books and manuscripts were gathered from different sources, as were geometrical instruments and maps. The new library, dubbed the Dâr alKutub, was inaugurated on 24 September 1870, reflecting the role of culture in enhancing the development of society as a whole. The khedive Ismâ‘îl offered all manner of support and assistance to his minister of education to fulfil his ambitions. One of modern Egypt’s greatest rulers, he supported the international role of Egyptian culture with its cultural and literary outpourings, history and heritage. The library made a huge contribution to Arab and Islamic culture, and since its opening it has nurtured and inspired thousands of thinkers and scientists. In 1886, a law was issued stipulating the deposit of all publication published in Egypt in the library. By 1898, the palace of prince Mustafa Fâdil, used as the library premises, had become full of books, leading the Ministry of Public Works to choose a new plot of land in Bâb al-Khalq for a new building. In 1899, the khedive ‘Abbâs Hilmî II laid the foundation stone of the library and devoted its first floor to the Antique Khâna, now the Museum of Islamic Art. The library was inaugurated in 1904, and since then its priceless assets and important collection of books have attracted the attention of scholars and intellectuals in Egypt and abroad. After the 1952 Revolution, the library continued to be Egypt’s most important library and archive, but it became so overwhelmed with books that in 1971 a new building 23 Janvier 2019 overlooking the Nile was chosen as the new premises of Egypt’s National Library. The building at Bâb al-Khalq then fell into disrepair. In the mid-1990s, a restoration project was launched to not only restore the building in Bâb al-Khalq, but also to upgrade the 1971 building, re-opening it in 2007. The latter is now Egypt’s NLA serving researchers and students in various areas of knowledge while keeping the Bâb al-Khalq building for manuscripts, rare books, papyri, old maps and periodicals. A museum displaying historical items was established inside the library in order to show Egypt’s contribution to Arab and Islamic culture. The interior design was adapted and redesigned, and walls inserted during the former expansion were removed. In collaboration with the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology, all the books in the old NLA have been technologically documented and can be accessed via the Internet. The building consists of one main floor and two mezzanines. The main floor includes reading rooms and the manuscripts museum established during the 1990s restoration project. The first mezzanine has microfilm and Internet facilities, while the second has a research hall, a restoration lab and a hall of papyri. The basement and roof spaces are also being used. On display are a number of historical maps of the Nile, the decrees of early sultans, ancient Egyptian papyri, gilded copies of the Quran, and the first publication of the Egyptian Radio magazine, now the Radio and Television magazine. A collection of gold and silver coins dating from the Abbasid era is also on show. THE MANUSCRIPTS: The manuscripts collection in the NLA is a national treasure and reflects the splendours of Arab and Islamic culture. The collection was founded in 1870 by collecting manuscripts of the Quran and BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 various Arabic, Persian and Turkish manuscripts from mosques, government offices and endowment treasuries. Later on, the NLA received large collections from private libraries, the most important being the al-Khazâna al-Zakiyya and the al-Taymûriyya. The NLA’s collection of manuscripts is kept in the libraries of al-Azhar University and Cairo University and in Alexandria, Mansûra, Tantâ, Damietta, Sinai, and the cities of Upper Egypt. It consists of around 100,000 volumes. Within the framework of the UNESCO “Memory of the World” Programme, Egypt’s Regional Information Technology and Software Engineering Centre (RITSEC) has developed a CD-ROM entitled “The Dâr alKutub Manuscripts: Arab Contributions to the World’s Scientific Heritage.” It introduces the sciences the Arabs have excelled in, including mathematics, astronomy, medicine, engineering, pharmacology, chemistry and mechanics. It also presents a bibliography of the most distinguished Arab scientists as well as their contributions and manuscripts. AN IMPORTANT Islamic manuscript was scheduled for auction at Sotheby’s in London in October 2018 for some 10,000 pounds sterling. After negotiations, Sotheby’s stopped the sale of the manuscript and returned it to its homeland. The recovered manuscript has a gilded white leather cover with 28 pages written in black ink outlined in a red frame. It shows verses from the Aal ‘Umrân (‘Umrân Family) and al-Nisâ’ (Women) surahs from the Quran. The manuscript dates to the reign of the last Mameluke ruler of Egypt, Qunsuwwa al-Ghûrî. 24 Janvier 2019 It bears the stamp and register number of the NLA, and it was last seen in the library at the end of the 19th century in 1892. (Nevine ElAref, “Re-opening the archives”, Al-Ahram Weekly, January 10, 2019. Voir également Nasma Réda, « La civilisation arabe racontée à Dâr al-Kutub », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 27 février). - - Samedi 12 janvier 2019 The Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) Egyptian Minister of Antiquities Khâlid al‘Inânî said that the ministry is in contact with the global auction houses to recover any Egyptian artifacts abroad, pointing out that the ministry in 2018 recovered artifacts from 5 countries and in 2015 retrieved artifacts from Israel. al-‘Inânî added in his speech on the sidelines of the tour of the parliament’s Culture, Media and Antiquities committee in the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) that the Antiquities law recently approved by the Parliament includes the non-waive of any artefact. inaugurate the GEM by 2020 and execute all its establishment procedures with high efficiency, pointing out that there are 8000 workers working on the implementation of the GEM 24 hours daily. The vice Chairman of the Armed Forces Engineering Authority and supervisor of the GEM project ‘Âtif Muftâh explained that the GEM will contain 6 exhibition halls, in addition to two children’s showrooms and a theatre that was designed in the form of ancient Roman theatres, with a total area of 500 meters. Muftâh stressed on the importance of making an integrated plan between the all the ministries to market this huge project. (“al‘Inânî: A presidential mandate to complete GEM by 2020”, Egypt Today, January 12, 2019. Voir également « Le ministre de l’Archéologie : Les travaux se poursuivent au GEM en vue de son inauguration en 2020 conformément aux instructions du président de la République », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 12 janvier ; Muhammad al-Siddîq, « Achèvement de 80 % des travaux du GEM », al-Ahrâm, 13 janvier ; Mira Maged, “Grand Egyptian Museum 88% ready, will open in 2020: Antiquities Minister”, Egypt Independent, February 19). - - al-‘Inânî pointed out that the GEM is the largest cultural project in the world. The Egyptian Minister of Antiquities added that there is a presidential mandate to BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Des sources auprès du ministère de l’Archéologie ont confirmé qu’une tête de statue exposée au musée de Suhâg a été fixée en place par des clous et des tiges métalliques. L’inauguration précipitée du musée explique le recours à un tel procédé expéditif. Le ministère de l’Archéologie s’emploie actuellement à corriger cette erreur. 25 Janvier 2019 Les sources ont également mentionné plusieurs problèmes qu’affronte le musée de Suhâg fraîchement inauguré, parmi lesquels le manque de ressources humaines, notamment le personnel de sécurité, les archéologues et les restaurateurs. Le département des musées est sommé d’intervenir afin de résoudre ces problèmes. (‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Une tête de statue cloutée dans le musée de Suhâg », Sada al-Balad, 12 janvier 2019). - - Dimanche 13 janvier 2019 Commentant la polémique suscitée par la statue cloutée dans le musée de Suhâg, la présidente du département des musées, Ilhâm Salâh, a déclaré : « Oui, l’utilisation des clous et des tiges métalliques dans la fixation des pièces archéologiques est une chose habituelle. Les pièces qui pèsent 250 kg sont instables ; ce qui nous oblige à les clouter. Si j’ai une statue de 5 m de hauteur, comment voulez-vous l’exposer à l’intérieur d’une vitrine ?! ». (Bassâm Ramadân, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie justifie le cloutage des statues antiques », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 13 janvier 2019. Voir également ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « La présidente du département des musées : Le cloutage des pièces archéologiques lourdes est une pratique appliquée partout dans le monde », Sada al-Balad, 13 janvier ; Ahmad Mansûr, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie : Les clous ont été utilisés d’une façon temporaire », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 13 janvier). - - signature of King Ramses III, one of the kings of Pharaonic Egypt. Al-Arabiya Channel broadcasted the discovery of the inscriptions in Tayma in Northern Saudi Arabia, one of the largest archaeological sites in the kingdom and the Arabian Peninsula. The Hieroglyphic inscription was found on a fixed rock, near the Tayma oasis. It bears a royal signature (a double cartouche) of King Ramses III. Several additional Aramaic, Talmudic and Nabataea inscriptions, as well as ancient illustrations of cattle, ostriches and snakes were discovered. King Ramses III is the most famous ruler of the 20th Dynasty known by the Greeks as Rampsinitus. He followed his father Ramses II’s reign to embark on massive construction projects. According to historians, it is customary that such inscriptions are engraved only in the presence of the Pharaoh himself, and this is an indication that Ramses III was present in this region. The Saudi archaeologists conducted a field research in which they found a direct commercial route linking the Nile Valley with Tayma. The route was used during the reign of Ramses III in the 12th century B.C., in which the Egyptian convoys travelled to purchase precious goods such as Copper, gold and silver. The route passes from the Nile Valley into the port of Alqulzm, Suez, where a temple of King Ramses III is located. The route then continues near the port of Abû Zunayma on the Gulf of Suez, where inscriptions of King Ramses III were found. The passage then crosses the Sinai Peninsula, passing by the Abû Ghda valley near the Nakhl Oasis, where a double cartouche named after King Ramses III was discovered. Saudi Arabian archaeologists discovered a hieroglyphic inscription illustrating the BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 It is noteworthy that a number of archaeological discoveries made in Egypt were previously discovered in a number of 26 Janvier 2019 archaeological sites in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. (Mustafa Marie, “Hieroglyphic inscriptions discovered in Saudi Arabia”, Egypt Today, January 13, 2019). - - According to local news outlet, Egyptian Minister of Antiquities Khâlid al-‘Inânî announced that the ministry received an internal grant of € 3 million to restore and develop one of Cairo’s iconic institutions, the Egyptian Museum. The beloved 116-year old landmark would be undergoing a development plan, which would see the collaboration of the Ministry of Antiquities as well as European museums such as London’s British Museum, the Louvre Museum in Paris, the Egyptian Museum of Berlin and the Egyptian Museum in Turin. Additional information regarding the exact renovation and development work that the museums are planning to carry out has not yet been revealed. For years, tourists and locals have lamented the state of the Egyptian museum, criticizing its layout scheme, lighting, outdated display features and lack of proper labelling. The museum, which houses around 120,000 artifacts, has been often compared to a large ‘storage unit’ rather than a sophisticated, international institution with a clear edutainment purpose. (“Egyptian Museum Receives € 3M Grant to Undergo Development”, Egyptian Streets, January 13, 2019. Voir également Mustafa Marie, “€ 3 million to develop the Egyptian Museum in Tahrîr Square”, Egypt Today, January 12; “Egyptian Museum to receive €3mn development grant”, Egypt Independent, January 16 ; « Coopération égyptoeuropéenne pour développer le musée égyptien de Tahrîr », Sada al-Balad, 27 janvier). - - Lundi 14 janvier 2019 After the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, the British Museum houses the world’s largest and most comprehensive collection of Egyptian antiquities (over 100,000) followed by the Egyptian Museum in Berlin (around 80,000). The Ministry of Antiquities launched a project to develop the area around the Dandara Temple in Qinâ in preparation for converting it into an open museum. The news was announced on Saturday, while al-‘Inânî accompanied Usâma Haykal head of Egypt’s parliament’s Media, Culture and Antiquities Committee in an inspection tour of the Grand Egyptian Museum. BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Secretary General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities Mustafa Wazîrî stated that the first phase of the project, which includes the installation of nine stone terraces on the left side of the main entrance of the temple, was completed in cooperation with the French archaeological mission in Dandara. 27 Janvier 2019 Director General of the Dandara Temple ‘Abd al-Hakîm al-Saghîr clarified that the pieces that will be displayed on the terraces are located in the main area of the temple. Most of these pieces were uncovered during previous archaeological excavations in the area. Some of the archaeological pieces were placed on the temple’s ground since their discovery, while others were found in the temple’s storage room. Dandara en un musée à ciel ouvert », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 14 janvier ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Projet de transformation du temple de Dandara en un musée à ciel ouvert », Sada al-Balad, 14 janvier ; Nevine El-Aref, “Upper Egypt’s Dandara Temple to be converted into openair museum”, Ahram Online, January 15; Muhammad ‘Abd al-Mu‘tî, « Transformation du temple de Dandara en un musée à ciel ouvert », al-Ahrâm, 15 janvier ; “Magnificent Dandara Temple to Be Turned Into An OpenAir Museum”, Egyptian Streets, January 15; « Voyages en bref », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 30 janvier). - - À l’occasion de la Fête des archéologues, le ministre de l’Archéologie, Dr Khâlid al‘Inânî, décerne aujourd’hui des distinctions à un certain nombre d’archéologues et de restaurateurs parmi lesquels le directeur du temple de Louqsor, Ahmad ‘Arabî. Celui-ci est honoré pour les efforts qu’il a récemment déployés dans la restauration de deux statues de Ramsès II érigées devant la façade du temple de Louqsor. Rappelons que le ministère de l’Archéologie célèbre chaque année la Fête des archéologues le 14 janvier en commémoration de la nomination du premier président égyptien du Service des Antiquités, longtemps considéré comme une chasse gardée des étrangers. (‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Le directeur du temple de Louqsor honoré aujourd’hui à l’occasion de la Fête des archéologues », Sada al-Balad, 14 janvier 2019). Bird view of the blocks and the artefacts Also, al-Saghîr stressed that it is scheduled to complete the installation of the stone terraces and re-locate the rest of the archaeological elements found in the temple. (Mustafa Marie, “Dandara Temple to be converted into an open museum”, Egypt Today, January 14, 2019. Voir également Samar al-Naggâr, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie commence le réaménagement de la zone du temple de Dandara », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 14 janvier ; Ahmad Mansûr, « Réaménagement de la zone du temple de BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 - - Mardi 15 janvier 2019 Two Roman tombs have been uncovered during excavation work at Bîr al-Shaghâla site in Mût village in Dâkhla Oasis. The walls of the two uncompleted tombs are painted in bright colours with religious scenes. Mustafa Wazîrî, the secretary-general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, explains that 28 Janvier 2019 the first tomb has a 20-step staircase covered with plaster, which leads to a native made of limestone. Photo credit: Ministry of Antiquities. The main hall of the tomb is made of mud brick with a vaulted ceiling that is partly destroyed. Its northern wall has two burial chambers containing a collection of human skulls and skeletons as well as clay lamps and pots. Ayman al-‘Ashmâwî, the head of the Ancient Egyptian Antiquities Department, said that the second tomb has a funerary corridor that leads to a vaulted chamber on its northern wall, which holds a niche engraved with a painted scene depicting the mummification process. Photo credit: Ministry of Antiquities. al-‘Ashmâwî added that 10 other tombs were recently uncovered in the area. They have a very distinguished architectural style, with pyramid shaped roofs and each tomb consisting of two or three levels. (Nevine ElAref, “Roman tombs discovered in Egypt’s Dâkhla Oasis”, Ahram Online, January 15, 2019. Voir également Samar al-Naggâr, « Mise au jour de deux tombes archéologiques dans la zone de Bîr al-Shaghâla », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 15 janvier ; “Two Roman tombs unearthed in Daqahliyya Oasis”, Egypt Independent, January 15; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Découverte de deux tombes antiques dans la zone de Bîr alBIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Shaghâla », Sada al-Balad, 15 janvier ; Ahmad Mansûr, « Mise au jour de deux tombes archéologiques dans la zone de Bîr alShaghâla », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 15 janvier ; Sanâ’ Fârûq, « Découverte de deux tombes antiques dans la zone de Bîr al-Shaghâla », Watanî, 15 janvier ; Nour Eltigani, “Egyptian Expedition Uncovered Two Tombs From Roman Period”, Egyptian Streets, January 16; Nasma Réda, « Les tombes de Dakhla, témoins de l’art romain », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 23 janvier). - - Jeudi 17 janvier 2019 To manage and follow up Egypt’s World Heritage Sites, the government has established the first ever-supreme committee to oversee the sites. Led by assistant to the president for national and strategic projects Sharîf Ismâ‘îl, the committee was formed according to a presidential decree and consists of 19 members, including the ministers of Antiquities, Tourism, National Development, and Environment, the president’s advisors for national security and urban planning, a representative from the General Intelligence Authority and the ministries of Defence, Housing, Foreign Affairs, Interior, Investment and International Cooperation and Transportation, and the head of the National Organisation for Urban Harmony. The committee will be responsible for the development of a strategic vision for the management, protection and development of Egypt’s World Heritage Sites, as well as maximising their potential and benefiting from sustainable development plans and coordinating with all local and international stakeholders inside and outside Egypt in the management, protection and preservation of these sites and their surrounding areas. It will also exert maximum efforts to inscribe more Egyptian sites on the World Heritage List managed by UN cultural organisation UNESCO. 29 Janvier 2019 Ismâ‘îl had also commissioned the Ministry of Environment to draw up a study of the risks of climate change to Egypt’s heritage and had assigned the Ministry of Antiquities to communicate directly with UNESCO in collaboration with the Foreign Ministry to settle other matters in relation to the heritage sites, ‘Attiya said. Ruins of Abû Mînâ City Egypt has seven sites on the UNESCO List, including the Abû Mînâ City, ancient Thebes with its necropolis, Historic Cairo, Memphis and its necropolis extending from the Gîza Pyramids to Dahshûr, the Nubian monuments from Abû Simbil to Philae, the St Catherine’s area in Sinai, and natural site of Wâdî al-Hîtân in Fayyûm. The committee held its first meeting late last week and put the ruins of the oldest Christian sites in Egypt at Abû Mînâ at the top of its list of interventions. The idea is to halt the problem of the high level of ground water at the site and to take it off the UNESCO List of World Heritage in Danger. Târiq ‘Atiyya, spokesperson of the committee, said that Ismâ‘îl had asked the ministers of Irrigation and Agriculture to provide a detailed report on steps to be taken at the site in 2019 to solve the problem of water. Accurate maps of the urban area around Abû Mînâ need to be provided to develop, protect and preserve the site from any further threats. Abû Mînâ with its baptistery, basilicas, public buildings, streets, houses and workshops was inscribed on the World Heritage List in 1979 and on the In Danger List in 2001 because the local soil, exclusively clay, becomes semi-liquid in the presence of excess water. When in a dry state, the soil is hard and capable of supporting buildings. But the destruction of numerous cisterns around the city has entailed the collapse of several overlying structures. Huge underground cavities have opened in the northwestern region of the site. The risk of collapse has been so high that those responsible were forced to fill the bases of some of the most endangered buildings with sand, including the crypt of Abû Mînâ with the tomb of the saint, and close them to the public. Ruins of Abû Mînâ City The report will also include work being achieved in the recent LE15 million project to replace decayed irrigation and drainage pipes and will be submitted at the second Committee meeting. BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Ruins of Abû Mînâ City Former supervisor of the International Organisations Department at the Ministry of Antiquities Yâsmîn al-Shâzlî told Al-Ahram Weekly that the Supreme Council of Antiquities at that time, now the Ministry of 30 Janvier 2019 Antiquities, had tried to counteract the phenomenon by digging trenches and had enlarged the protected area in the hope of lowering the pressure of irrigation. These measures, however, had proved to be insufficient, taking into account the scale of the problem and the limited resources available, she said. Wind-blown sand eventually covered the tomb and no trace was left. Some centuries later, a shepherd observed that a sick lamb that crossed the spot immediately became well. When the remains of the saint were discovered, a church was built over his grave. UNESCO’s World Heritage Committee has already approved a technical assistance grant from the World Heritage Fund to assist the Egyptian authorities in identifying ways of reducing the level of the water table and preventing further damage to the ancient structures. “Rising groundwater levels are a problem throughout the Mediterranean region, linked to urban growth and agricultural development,” al-Shâzlî pointed out. Ruins of Abû Mînâ City The Abû Mînâ City was one of the great centres of pilgrimage in Egypt from the fifth to seventh centuries CE. Thousands of people came from all over the Christian world seeking the site’s reputed healing powers. Pilgrims took home sacred water in tiny pottery ampoules (shaped like two-handled jars and stamped with the figure of the saint between two camels) or oil from the lamp that burned before the tomb. Bishop Kirolos of the monastery said that Abû Mînâ was a soldier-saint who had died a martyr’s death in western Asia. His cult gained popularity when, according to the legend, his body was placed on a camel and borne inland to be buried. At a certain spot the camel refused to move further, a sign taken as divine revelation that he should be buried there. BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Ruins of Abû Mînâ City The reputation of the place then spread far and wide. Pilgrims came in scores, and the stories of the wondrous cures that they carried home attracted more pilgrims. Soon the original church was too small to accommodate the number of visitors, and the Roman emperor Arcadius (395-408 CE) built another church, to which the saint’s relics were transferred. Subsequent emperors erected other buildings, and eventually the site’s Great Basilica was built, to which thousands of pilgrims flocked from as far afield as England, France, Germany, Spain and Turkey. Cures were attributed to the therapeutic effects of the water, which came from springs in limestone rocks (they have since dried up) and baths were built flanking the church. When the Roman emperor Constantine the Great’s only daughter, who suffered from leprosy, was reputedly healed at Abû Mînâ, the fame of the site spread further throughout the Roman world. A great city grew up there, flourished, and eventually disappeared. The famed city written up by classical writers was thought to be legendary until in 1961 the Deutsches Archäologisches Institut Kairo (DAIK) excavated the area, under the direction of archaeologist Peter GROSSMAN, and discovered one of the largest and most ancient pilgrimage sites in the world. 31 Janvier 2019 Ruins of Abû Mînâ City The ruins cover an area 1km square where the main colonnaded pilgrimage route of the early Christians has been identified. It had shops and workshops to the left and right, leading to the Church of the Martyr, built during the Justinian era (528-565 CE). The ruins suggest that pilgrims gathered in a great square surrounded by hostels. There, monks could take care of the sick that came to the shrine to be healed. There are also the ruins of two large bathhouses and wells. A new monastery has now been built at the site; its lofty surrounding walls and twin towers situated no more than 500m from the ancient site. (Nevine El-Aref, “New heritage committee set up”, Al-Ahram Weekly, January 17, 2019. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « La Commission égyptienne du patrimoine élabore un plan de sauvetage du Dayr Abû Mînâ », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 20 février). - - Le ministre de l’Archéologie, Dr Khâlid al‘Inânî, a reçu jeudi l’ambassadeur du royaume de Suède au Caire, S.E.M. Jan THESLEFF, afin d’examiner le renforcement de la coopération bilatérale dans le champ archéologique : fouilles, musées, entraînement des BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 archéologues et échanges d’expertises. L’ambassadeur a invité le ministre à visiter les fouilles archéologiques de la mission suédoises à Gabal al-Silsila et ses nombreuses découvertes. (Samar al-Naggâr, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie examine avec l’ambassadeur de Suède le renforcement de la coopération bilatérale », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 17 janvier 2019. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie reçoit l’ambassadeur de Suède pour examiner le renforcement de la coopération bilatérale », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 17 janvier ; MENA, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie examine avec l’ambassadeur de Suède le renforcement de la coopération archéologique bilatérale », Sada al-Balad, 17 janvier). - - The Archaeological Mission of Alexandria Antiquities, which works at the site of Tabbat Mutawwah in al-‘Âmiriyya, uncovered a collection of artifacts dating back to the Greek and Roman eras. Secretary General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, Mustafa Wazîrî, confirmed that this is a unique discovery, as the site is an industrial and commercial area. Wazîrî clarified that one of the most important elements of the archaeological 32 Janvier 2019 findings is a set of interconnected walls with clear construction and designing methods. Some walls were built with non-symmetrical stones, while others were built with carefully cut stones. Head of the Egyptian Antiquities Sector Ayman al-‘Ashmâwî stated that a large number of ovens were also discovered as separate units inside the walls, which have been rebuilt and renovated more than once. Most of these ovens were used to prepare food, as bird and fish bones were found inside. al-‘Ashmâwî pointed out that the existence of such a large number of ovens indicates that this place was used as a service unit for militants or camps. referred to the discovery of two corpses, one of which was for a middle-aged woman wearing a copper ring. The bodies were found next to a wall and close to a used oven. The place might have been used by the poor to bury their dead, after it had been abandoned. (Mustafa Marie, “Several discoveries found in al-‘Âmiriyya”, Egypt Today, January 17, 2019. Voir également Samar al-Naggâr, « Découverte à Alexandrie de fours et d’ustensiles de cuisine datant des époques grecque et romaine », alMasrî al-Yawm, 17 janvier ; Ahmad Mansûr, « Nouvelle découverte archéologique à Tabbat Mutawwah en Alexandrie », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 17 janvier ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Nouvelle découverte archéologique à Tabbat Mutawwah en Alexandrie », Sada alBalad, 17 janvier). - - Dimanche 20 janvier 2019 In the same context, Head of the Central Department of the Effects of the Sea, Nâdya Khidr, stated that cooking utensils of different sizes, as well as large quantities of pottery vessels were also uncovered. Director General of Alexandria Antiquities and Head of the mission, Khâlid Abû al-Hamd, BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Le décret n° 34/2019 du président ‘Abd alFattah al-Sîsî est paru au Journal officiel de la République égyptienne. Il porte annulation de l’alinéa b de l’article III du décret n° 95/1978, concernant le pourcentage de 10 % versé par le ministère de l’Archéologie aux collectivités territoriales. Le secrétaire général du CSA, Dr Mustafa Wazîrî, s’est félicité de cette décision. « La totalité des revenus du CSA pourra ainsi être consacrée aux projets archéologiques : fouilles, restaurations, etc. », a-t-il souligné. Pour l’instant, il est difficile de déterminer le montant exact des économies réalisées. (Ahmad Mansûr, « Annulation des 10 % versés par le ministère de l’Archéologie aux 33 Janvier 2019 collectivités territoriales », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 20 janvier 2019. Voir également Liliane Nabîl, « Décret présidentiel d’annulation des 10 % versés par le ministère de l’Archéologie aux collectivités territoriales », Watanî, 20 janvier). - - Lundi 21 janvier 2019 The Media Center of the Council of Ministers denied the rumours regarding the alleged use of inappropriate vehicles to transport the Egyptian antiquities to the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM). The center is cooperating with the Ministry of Antiquities to transfer the antiquities to the GEM, pointing out that the process of transferring the antiquities is carried out in accordance with specific procedures and standards that take into account all safety measures necessary to preserve the Egyptian antiquities. The ministry stressed that the procedures also take into account the preliminary repair and documentation of the pieces, which are performed by a professional team affiliated with the GEM. The Ministry of Antiquities affirmed that the cars used to transport the antiquities are prepared with the latest equipment for temperature and humidity control. The transportation process comes in cooperation with the Department of Antiquities Stores and the Restoration and Packaging Department and the Monument Restoration Center; it is occurring under tight security measures by the Tourism and Antiquities Police Forces. (Mustafa Marie, “Min. of antiquities denies rumours about inappropriate transfer of antiquities”, Egypt Today, January 21, 2019. Voir également Muhammad ‘Abd al-Mu‘tî, « Le Conseil des ministres nie le transfert des antiquités vers le GEM à bord de véhicules inappropriés », alAhrâm, 21 janvier ; Hind Mukhtâr, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie nie le transfert des antiquités vers le GEM à bord de véhicules inappropriés », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 21 janvier ; Ruz Husnî, « Le gouvernement nie le transfert des antiquités vers le GEM à bord de véhicules inappropriés », Watanî, 21 janvier). - - Egyptian Archaeologists have discovered an ancient pottery-manufacturing workshop dating back more than 4,000 years in Aswân. The workshop, the oldest pottery workshop in the Old Kingdom, belongs to the 4th Dynasty, spanning 2,613 to 2,494 B.C., the Ministry of Antiquities said on Thursday’s statement. It is situated close to the Nile River in Aswân. Inside the workshop, archaeologists have found an ancient pottery-manufacturing wheel made of a turntable and a hollow base. This discovery is "rare" and reveals more about the improvement of pottery manufacturing and the daily lives of ancient Egyptians during that time in history, Mustafa Wazîrî, secretary general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities said. The year 2018 is considered the year of archaeological discoveries. The remains of a Greco-Roman temple was uncovered by an Egyptian archaeological mission from the BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 34 Janvier 2019 Supreme Council of Antiquities while performing excavations at the al-Salâm archaeological site on Wednesday, April 4. al-Salâm archaeological site is about 50 kilometres east of Sîwa Oasis. The archaeologists uncovered the front part of the temple in addition to parts of its foundations, its main entrance and one-meter thick stones from its outer wall. The outer wall leads to a front courtyard with entrances to chambers. The rest of the temple is expected to be excavated this year. The Egyptian Minister of Antiquities Khâlid al-‘Inânî announced on Feb. 24 the discovery of eight tombs that contain about 40 coffins of Pharaonic priests and more than 1,000 Ushabti statues in the Tûna al-Gabal area in Minyâ governorate. “Today we are announcing the beginning of a new discovery; the tombs are full of jewelleries, potteries and Pharaonic jars,” al‘Inânî recounted on Feb. 24. This discovery is described by al-‘Inânî as one of the largest and most important archaeological discoveries unearthed in recent times. The new archaeological discovery is documenting some issues related to the lives of ancient Egyptians in Minyâ province tens of centuries ago. The most prominent finds in these tombs were a gold mask, coffins, mummies and statues. The Egyptian Ministry of Antiquities added that the area of the discovery requires years of hard work, pointing out that the main advantage of this discovery is that it was discovered by Egyptians. It is worth mentioning that this discovery is considered the second discovery in 2018 after a new tomb of an ancient Egyptian woman named Hetpet was discovered in the Western Cemetery located in the Pyramids area in Gîza, as announced on Feb. 3 by al-‘Inânî. (Mustafa Marie, “Archaeologists find ancient pottery workshop in Egypt”, Egypt Today, January 21, 2019). - - BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Mardi 22 janvier 2019 In an effort to protect Egyptian antiquities stored in archaeological galleries, Egypt’s Ministry of Antiquities has launched a campaign to make an inventory of all store galleries in archaeological sites around Egypt. The galleries consist of three types of storages; museological storehouses, subsidiary storehouses, and those belonging to archaeological missions. Mustafa Wazîrî, secretary-general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, told Ahram Online that the committee in charge of the inventory campaign, established in 2017, has inventoried 34 museological storehouses in early January and has found no missing artefacts. The ministry started yesterday an inventory of the subsidiary storehouses and those of archaeological missions that had not been opened or catalogued for several years. Among these is a mastaba in Saqqâra that was used as a store gallery and had not been inventoried since 1997. Upon entering the mastaba, the committee found evidence of attempts to remove some of the iron beams from the metal ceiling of the mastaba’s open court. The door of the mastaba was closed and sealed with stamps marked 1997. The committee has reported the attempted break-in to the Tourism and Antiquities Police and will continue with the inventory procedures to check if there are any missing objects. Wazîrî asserted that the ministry will continue to inventory all antiquities galleries periodically as part of efforts to protect and preserve Egypt’s ancient artefacts. (Nevine ElAref, “Antiquities ministry starts inventory of artefact storehouses throughout Egypt”, Ahram Online, January 22, 2019. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie achève l’inventaire de 34 entrepôts muséologiques sur tout le territoire », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 22 janvier, ‘Alâ’ 35 Janvier 2019 al-Minyâwî, « 34 entrepôts muséologiques inventoriés en un an », Sada al-Balad, 22 janvier). - - Mercredi 23 janvier 2019 Minister of Antiquities Khâlid al-‘Inânî convened with the director of the Aga Khan Cultural Services Foundation in the Ministry of Antiquities’ headquarters on Jan. 22 to discuss means of cooperation in the development of Cairo’s historical districts. The meeting was attended by Assistant Minister of Antiquities for Technical Affairs Mustafa Amîn, and Sherif ARIAN, CEO of Agha Khan Cultural Services Company - Egypt. Amîn commented that the meeting focused on the latest works of the Aga Khan Foundation regarding the Egyptian antiquities and monuments, and on the restoration works of al-Tanbaghâ al-Mârdânî Mosque in al-Darb al-Ahmar, pointing out that the coming period will witness more projects and support from the foundation for the development and restoration of historical Cairo. al-‘Inânî welcomed the initiative because of its importance to the Islamic monuments in Egypt. It is worth mentioning that the renovation project of al-Tanbaghâ al-Mârdânî Mosque comes within the framework of the Ministry of Antiquities and the Aga Khan Foundation’s efforts to develop the monuments of al-Darb al-Ahmar and Bâb al-Wazîr areas and restore a group of archaeological buildings in the region. (Mustafa Marie, “Min. of Antiquities cooperates with Agha Khan Foundation to restore monuments”, Egypt Today, January 23, 2019. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie reçoit le directeur de l’Aga Khan », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 23 janvier ; Sanâ’ Fârûq, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie reçoit le directeur de l’Aga Khan », Watanî, 23 janvier ; Mira Maged, “al-‘Inânî, Aga Khan Foundation discuss historic Cairo”, Egypt Independent, January 24). - - BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 À l’est de l’oasis de Dâkhla, au village de ‘Ayn al-Sabîl, la mission archéologique égyptienne dirigée par Kâmil Bayyûmî a découvert cette semaine un pot en argile contenant des solidus (nom donné aux pièces de monnaie en or datant de l’Empire byzantin ou l’Empire romain d’Occident apparu vers le IVe siècle). Sur chaque pièce figurent sur une face une illustration différente montrant l’empereur byzantin Constantin II (311-361), ainsi que son nom, et sur la pile, des dessins divers et la date de la frappe de cette pièce antique. « Cette collection a été transférée aux entrepôts de l’oasis de Dâkhla afin d’être restaurée et étudiée », souligne Bayyûmî. En effet, cette région archéologique de ‘Ayn al-Sabîl avait une grande importance dans l’antiquité puisqu’elle était la capitale de 36 Janvier 2019 la région avant Mût, (lors du Nouvel Empire) et par la suite était le siège du gouvernement à l’ancien et Moyen-Empire. En plus des solidus, plusieurs pièces coptes ont été aussi révélées. « Constantin était adoré par les Égyptiens, il était l’ami du célèbre pape Athanase, évêque d’Alexandrie en 328, où il a appris le christianisme », dit Bayyûmî qui assure que les travaux archéologiques de nettoyage du site se poursuivront dans les prochains jours. (Dalia Farouq, « Les solidus de Constantin II », AlAhram Hebdo du 23 janvier 2019. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « Découverte de monnaies en or d’époque byzantine à ‘Ayn alSabîl », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 17 janvier ; ‘Alâ’ alMinyâwî, « Mise au jour de monnaies en or d’époque byzantine à ‘Ayn al-Sabîl », Sada alBalad, 17 janvier ; Sanâ’ Fârûq, « Découverte de monnaies en or à ‘Ayn al-Sabîl », Watanî, 17 janvier). - - The National Museum of Scotland is set to open an exhibition of around 7,000 Egyptian artifacts on February 8. “The artifacts on display will be broadly the same. The museum has 7000 pieces from the 4000 years of the Egyptian empire, from mummified remains, elaborate coffins and stone tablets to tiny ornaments and pieces of jewellery. It has the only undamaged royal burial group in a museum outside Egypt,” the Daily Record website reported. The Times newspaper reported that for the first time since its transfer to the Scottish capital of Edinburgh in 1872, a stone of the Great Pyramid of Khufu would be displayed at the National Museum of Scotland. The exhibition will notably have the only undamaged collection of ancient Egyptian royal mummies displayed in any museum outside Egypt. According to the Daily Record, museum officials pointed out that starting in the year 1819, various archaeological societies had began to excavate archaeological sites in Egypt and returned with many treasures that BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 were placed in the National Museum of Scotland. “Thanks to Egypt’s unique position on the Nile, there was plenty to go around,” Egyptologist Daniel POTTER said. “Today we ask questions such as where did workers for the pyramids live, and what did they eat, rather than looking for the next thing that’s made out of gold,” he added. POTTER asked as well why the ancient Egyptians designed small, convex, curved mirrors of wood that were found buried with a girl from 2 AD, a time when the Romans were taking control of Egypt. He described the mirrors as “tiny” and “some of the most delicate pieces in the collection”. “There are tiny glass bottles and little boxes for cosmetics. She’s quite young so she was given things like cosmetics so she could have the afterlife of an adult woman,” he was quoted as saying by Daily Record. According to POTTER, chairs had a dual function to ancient Egyptians as, in addition to being a comfortable place to sit on, it represented the social status of its owners. The Ministry of Antiquities requested the Foreign Ministry to communicate with Scottish authorities at the National Museum of Scotland so the latter can provide the legal documents and export certificates for the Khufu Pyramid stone, head of the Retrieved Antiquities Department Sha‘bân ‘Abd alGawwâd said. The Ministry also called on the Scottish authorities to provide legal documents for all of the Egyptian antiquities that would be presented at the exhibition, ‘Abd al-Gawwâd said. He stressed that the current Egyptian law for the protection of antiquities No. 117 of 1983 and its amendments criminalizes trafficking in antiquities or exporting them. ‘Abd al-Gawwâd pointed out that if proven that the Khufu stone or any of the other artifacts have been illegally smuggled outside Egypt; the ministry will take the necessary measures to recover them. (Mira Maged, “National Museum of Scotland set to display 37 Janvier 2019 7,000 Egyptian artifacts”, Egypt Independent, January 23, 2019. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie exige de l’Écosse le titre de propriété du bloc de Chéops », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 3 janvier ; Amânî ‘Abd al-Ghanî, « La crise se poursuit entre l’Égypte et l’Écosse autour du bloc de Chéops », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 28 janvier ; Mustafa Marie, “Egypt requests proof from Scotland Museum for legitimacy of transferring Khufu stone”, Egypt Today, January 28). - - Une collection de crânes et d’os, stockée depuis toujours dans les entrepôts du Musée Égyptien du Caire, fait l’objet d’une exposition temporaire dans la salle 55 au premier étage. « Redécouvrir les morts » est le titre de cette exposition inédite qui se tient jusqu’à la fin du mois de janvier. « Ces crânes et ossements apportent des informations importantes sur des détails de la civilisation ancienne. Cette exposition est la première d’une série à venir sur des thèmes scientifiques », explique Ilhâm Salâh, directrice du secteur des musées au ministère des Antiquités. 13 crânes, deux fémurs ainsi qu’un squelette et une momie composent cette exposition autour de quatre thèmes différents : l’estimation de l’âge et du sexe, les maladies, l’embaumement et les sites des découvertes. « Cette exposition traite un sujet peu répandu en Égypte, qui est la bioarchéologie. Cette science moderne étudie les restes humains pour comprendre l’Histoire », explique Inâs Nabîl, l'une des conservatrices des entrepôts du Musée du Caire, initiatrice de cette exposition. Selon elle, la bio-archéologie et l’archéologie suivent les mêmes objectifs. En se basant sur les traces humaines laissées au sol, ces deux domaines de recherche visent à reconstituer et à comprendre les modes de vie, les phénomènes sociaux et médicaux des anciens. « L’étude de ces crânes qui remontent à plus de 6 000 ans, a permis de découvrir quelques métiers exercés à l’époque. D’après des résidus trouvés sur leurs dents, on peut dire que les anciens BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 travaillaient avec des cordes et du fer par exemple », souligne Nabîl. Sur les crânes exposés, des pancartes expliquent comment des maladies, comme l’anémie, étaient répandues. Les panneaux explicatifs ainsi que les cartes exposées traitent de même des dernières découvertes et révélations sur l’embaumement et les sites archéologiques où ces crânes ont été trouvés. « Dans cette exposition scientifique, les jeunes archéologues ont essayé de simplifier les termes pour aider le grand public à comprendre les pièces », affirme Sabâh ‘Abd al-Râziq, directrice du musée lors de l’inauguration. Par exemple, des crânes ont été disposés sur une grande carte d’Égypte à l’endroit où ils ont été découverts. En un coup d’œil, le visiteur peut ainsi découvrir les principaux endroits fouillés au XIXe siècle, qui abritaient ces ossements organiques, à savoir Bayt ‘Allâm dans le gouvernorat de Suhâg, Nagada, à Minyâ, ainsi qu’à Gabal al-Silsila à Aswân. Outre les crânes et les ossements humains, un squelette attire l’attention du visiteur. « C’est le deuxième plus ancien squelette au monde datant de plus de 21 000 ans », précise-t-elle. Cette pièce, normalement exposée dans la salle des momies dans sa vitrine, a été découverte à Aswân, dans le site archéologique de Wâdî al-Kubbâniyya. Toujours dans l’exposition se trouve une vitrine renfermant une momie d’un enfant très bien conservée et couverte d’une couche en or. Elle date de l’époque romaine et a été trouvée à Akhmîm, en Haute-Égypte. « Quoique ces deux pièces soient exposées normalement dans le musée, c’est une bonne occasion de les mettre en lumière. Elles viennent enrichir l’exposition », assure Inâs Nabîl, promettant de poursuivre les recherches et les études des nouveaux ossements, et de révéler et d’exposer les secrets qu’ils cachent par la bio-archéologie. (Nasma Réda, « Redécouvrir les morts, une exposition insolite », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 23 janvier 2019. Voir également Muhammad ‘Abd al-Rahmân, « Des crânes et des squelettes 38 Janvier 2019 exposés au Musée Égyptien », al-Yawm alSâbi‘, 11 janvier). - - "Allah mahabba" ou "Dieu est amour". Ce verset de l’Évangile a été choisi comme titre de l’exposition des textiles provenant du cimetière d’al-Bâgawât de l’oasis de Khârga, capitale du gouvernorat de la Nouvelle Vallée. L’exposition se tient jusqu’au 31 mars prochain au Musée des Textiles égyptiens, situé rue al-Mu‘izz dans Le Caire fatimide. « Cette collection date du IIe au VIIe siècles et témoigne des débuts du christianisme en Égypte », explique Sahar Ibrâhîm, adjointe générale au Musée des Textiles. 10 pièces sont exposées, dont 5 pour la première fois au public. Toutes proviennent des tombes d’alBâgawât, découvertes par la mission archéologique du Metropolitan Museum, entre 1907 et 1930. Le visiteur pourra aussi découvrir l’histoire des tombes d’al-Bâgawât lors de cette exposition. Dès l’entrée du musée, le regard est happé par un couvre-chef en lin remontant au début du IVe siècle. Il est orné du signe hiéroglyphe Ankh, symbole de la vie dans l’Égypte ancienne. « Ce signe, étant le plus proche de la forme de la croix, est utilisé à cette époque par les premiers chrétiens pour duper les autorités romaines qui les poursuivaient et les torturaient », explique Ibrâhîm. Avis partagé par Hânî Zarîf, spécialiste du textile copte et adjoint au musée. « C’est le symbole de la vie éternelle dans l’au-delà », explique-t-il. Le symbole Ankh est brodé en laine colorée, en rouge et bleu. Pour Zarîf, le rouge reflète le sang qui est lié à la crucifixion et le rachat. Le couvre-chef est aussi brodé de cercles qui symbolisent l’éternité. En poursuivant sa visite de l’exposition, le visiteur découvre une écharpe en lin, à la texture rugueuse. « Elle appartenait probablement à un homme mystique qui a choisi de se retirer et de s’éloigner des plaisirs du monde pour se dévouer totalement à cette religion naissante », explique Ibrâhîm. Cette écharpe est brodée d’une « croix dont la texture pileuse indique qu’elle était dédiée BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 aux ermites. Les quatre côtés de la croix sont égaux, symbole de l’égalité de tous les chrétiens devant Dieu », renchérit Zarîf. Afin de montrer au visiteur la différence entre les diverses textures du lin, les organisateurs ont aussi exposé une autre écharpe en lin doux. Cette dernière est brodée de deux ronds en laine rouge dont le symbole reste encore aujourd’hui un mystère pour les spécialistes. L’exposition comprend aussi des habits d’enfants, comme ce chemisier datant du IVe siècle en lin à manches longues, brodé de simples ornements. Il s’agit de deux lignes de filets fins pourpres en laine cousus en qabati (type de fabrication textile) qui décorent les côtés du chemisier et les poignets de ses manches. Le qabati est déjà connu durant l’époque de l’Égypte ancienne, mais il est devenu plus courant durant les premières années du christianisme. Deux tuniques monastiques sont aussi exposées, dont une privée de toutes ornementations, hormis de larges rubans de qabati en laine. Selon Ibrâhîm, cette tunique couvrait la momie d’une femme, alors que l’expert en texture copte, Zarîf, trouve que la pauvreté de décoration de la tunique serait plutôt celle d’un homme, puisque les habits des femmes, y compris les habits funéraires, sont plutôt riches en ornementations. Quant à la seconde tunique, elle était en plusieurs morceaux et a été réparée au laboratoire de restauration du musée. Pour Zarîf, ce vêtement riche en décorations laisse penser qu’il appartenait à une personne aisée de la haute société qui avait décidé de se convertir au christianisme. La fin de la visite se termine par l’exposition d’une étoffe ornée d’un dessin représentant le moine Boutros avec une auréole verte, couleur symbolisant le royaume céleste. Le moine y porte une tunique violet foncé et ses mains sont serrées sur sa poitrine. « Cette image est faite avec d’anciens morceaux de tissus remontant au IIe ou au IIIe siècles, alors que le tableau, qui décrit le 39 Janvier 2019 moine, date du VIe ou VIIe siècles », explique Zarîf. Cleopatra is completely false. The tomb of this magical queen has not been found. Le nom de ce moine Boutros, écrit en caractères coptes, est cousu au-dessus de sa tête. « Les écritures ne sont pas brodées sur les tissus avant la fin du VIe siècle », reprend l’expert. Ce tableau reflète ainsi l’évolution de l’art copte durant les premiers 7 siècles. The story began when I gave a lecture to students and the public at the University of Palermo in Italy. My words were translated by Stefania SOFRA, an Italian Egyptologist. I said we had long been excavating at the Temple of Taposiris Magna about 45km west of Alexandria, and added that the theory that Cleopatra could be buried there was not my theory, but the theory of Kathleen MARTINEZ of the Dominican Republic who had been working at the site with myself and an Egyptian team. Cette exposition donne ainsi une idée sur ce qu’est l’art copte, né au sein du Désert occidental égyptien, et aussi sur les divers moyens de représentation des signes de la nouvelle religion, afin que les autorités romaines ne les comprennent pas. Elle met aussi en évidence l’influence de cet art à travers les siècles et encore aujourd’hui. (Doaa Elhami, « Le textile, témoin des premières années chrétiennes », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 23 janvier 2019. Voir également Samar al-Naggâr, « L’exposition "Allah mahabba" au Musée des Textiles égyptiens », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 1er janvier ; Ahmad Ibrâhîm, « Inauguration aujourd’hui de l’exposition "Allah mahabba" au Musée des Textiles égyptiens », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 2 janvier ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « 5 pièces de la nécropole al-Bâgawât exposées aujourd’hui dans "Allah mahabba" au Musée des Textiles égyptiens », Sada al-Balad, 2 janvier). - - Jeudi 24 janvier 2019 Renowned actors TALOR and BURTON There is no evidence to suggest that the tomb of the ancient Egyptian queen Cleopatra has been found, writes Zâhî Hawwâs. The news that has been published recently concerning the discovery of the tomb of BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 I never believed in the theory that Cleopatra could be buried there, because the ancient Egyptians never buried anyone inside a temple. Temples were built for worship, and this temple was used for the worship of the goddess Isis. It was therefore unlikely that Cleopatra would be buried there. After I left the Ministry of Antiquities in 2011, MARTINEZ continued to excavate in the temple area, both in the interior and the exterior, and she found a great number of objects, including the foundation deposits that showed that the temple was first built by Ptolemy IV. More recently, the team found an inscribed stone that was a gift from Ptolemy V, the king who made the Rosetta Stone. According to the inscription on this stone, Ptolemy V gave gifts to the priestesses of Isis. Statues and coins were also found inside the temple depicting Cleopatra, and Greek and Roman artifacts and a large cemetery was found outside. Most of the mummies found in the cemetery were covered with gold. On 13 January, I was coming back from Rome and read a newspaper called Il Messaggero that was running a story to the effect that the tomb of Cleopatra had been found inside the Temple of Taposiris Magna. The story showed photographs of me at the tombs I found at the Gîza Pyramids. But the main photograph showed the actress Elizabeth TAYLOR playing Cleopatra surrounded by Rex HARRISON as Caesar and Richard BURTON as Mark Antony. 40 Janvier 2019 I called Stefania SOFRA asking her to send a letter from both of us saying that the newspaper story completely false. It had been completely made up. Even so, I had to answer questions from reporters from all over the world asking me about the discovery. I explained that the tomb had not been found inside the temple, and temples were never used for burial. Meanwhile, Hollywood wants to produce a new film on the life of Cleopatra. Many people are saying that Cleopatra was black, and for this reason they want the actress playing Cleopatra to be black too. The name of the US singer Beyoncé has been recommended. When I was called by various TV stations, I told them that Cleopatra cannot have been black because her father and mother were Greek even if she was born in Egypt and had become Egyptianised. I said that she was very clever and that she never loved Caesar or Mark Antony, but used them for their power. When Mark Antony was defeated at the Battle of Actium, Cleopatra began to look towards Octavius instead and sent a message to Mark Antony saying that she was dead and leading to Mark Antony’s killing himself. But Octavius did not care for Cleopatra and wanted to take her to Rome to show the Romans the woman that had deceived the world. I said that the US singer Lady Gaga would be inappropriate for the role of Cleopatra. I recommended the actress Angelina Jolie instead. The remains of Amun Temple in Taposiris Magna REMEMBERING CLEOPATRA: When I was 17, I studied Greek and Roman archaeology at the University of Alexandria. One day I asked one of the professors there, Fawzî alBIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Fakharânî, why archaeologists had searched for the tomb of Alexander the Great but none of them had searched for the tomb of Cleopatra? He said that I should go to the area near alSilsila in Alexandria and look into the water. There I would see the palace of the queen, he said, and her tomb. I went to the area and looked at the water that contains the tomb and palace and began to think that I was in love with a woman that I had never seen and had never even imagined what she looked like. I began to read about her, and what I read showed that Cleopatra had loved power, fame and wealth. She would have left the love of her life if it had benefited her. I began to think that I should not dream anymore about this mysterious woman. Look at what has been written about this queen. The ancient historian PLUTARCH said that Cleopatra and Mark Antony were buried together in Alexandria. For years, many archaeologists believed this theory. But the historical evidence suggests that Cleopatra built a tomb for herself near her palace, and so most scholars have concluded that Cleopatra’s tomb has sunk beneath the Mediterranean Sea. The theory that Cleopatra is buried in the Temple of Taposiris Magna is something promoted by MARTINEZ. As an Egyptologist, I can say that I have never heard of any king or queen being buried inside a temple, and what has been found recently in the excavations are only objects related to the temple equipment. Nothing has been discovered so far that relates to a tomb. Many people have written bad things about this queen, claiming that she was fat, had a large hooked nose, bad teeth, sharp eyes and a fat neck. This has been reported in the press. But this woman who captured the hearts of the most powerful men of her time cannot have been ugly. Instead, those who came after her, in particular Augustus Caesar and the Roman officials who took over Egypt after her death, did all they could to destroy 41 Janvier 2019 images of the queen, as if to obliterate her power and reputation. Yet, still the remarkable story of this Ptolemaic queen, Egypt’s last Pharaoh, has come down through the centuries. As the 17th-century French philosopher Blaise PASCAL wrote, “Cleopatra’s nose, if it had been shorter, the whole face of the earth would have been different.” Whether beautiful or not by today’s standards, this queen captured the hearts of many great Romans, and her story has fascinated countless historians, writers and artists. The earliest version of Cleopatra’s life was written by PLUTARCH in around 100 CE in his Lives of the Noble Grecians and Romans, which contains the most accurate and complete accounts. And so her myth begins. bewitching, so much so that Antony neglected his civic duties at home. “While Fulvia his wife maintained his quarrels in Rome against Octavius Caesar by actual force of arms,” Antony allowed himself “to be carried away by her to Alexandria, there to keep holiday, like a boy, in play and diversion”, PLUTARCH writes, quoting a friend of his own grandfather as to the sumptuousness of the feasts they shared. A royal head uncovered on site CLEOPATRA’S SUICIDE: It is from PLUTARCH, too, that we hear the earliest version of the intertwined deaths of Mark Antony and Cleopatra. Hawwâs with MARTINEZ during excavation work; and a royal head uncovered on site In his life of Mark Antony, PLUTARCH calls the Roman leader’s love affair with Cleopatra “the last and crowning mischief that could befall him” and emphasises her seductive charms. According to PLUTARCH, knowing that she was to meet Mark Antony, the Egyptian queen came sailing up the river Cydnus in a barge with a gilded stern and outspread sails of purple, while oars of silver beat time to the music of flutes and harps. She lay alone under a canopy of cloth of gold, dressed as Venus in a painting, and beautiful boys, like Cupids, stood on each side to fan her. Her maids were dressed like sea nymphs and graces, some steering at the rudder, some working at the ropes. There followed an extravagant courtship, together with a characterisation of Cleopatra not as beautiful but as intelligent and BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Making one hard decision after another, and falling under the shadow of numerous omens reflecting the gods’ will, Mark Antony decides to die a soldier’s death. He witnesses his own men surrendering to Octavius, his Roman rival, and blames Cleopatra. “She, being afraid lest in his fury and despair he might do her a mischief, fled to her monument,” writes PLUTARCH, and she sent messengers to tell Antony that she was dead. Believing himself defeated in war and love, Antony then wounded himself with his sword but lived long enough to be brought before Cleopatra. This is what made me believe that this queen loved herself alone and that she would sacrifice her love for Mark Antony for power. She sent a message to get rid of her defeated lover, so that she could be free for another, Octavius. “Nothing could part us whilst we lived, but death seems to threaten to divide us,” PLUTARCH reports that Cleopatra said upon Antony’s death. She had already spent days testing various poisons and watching prisoners 42 Janvier 2019 die, “in order to see which of them were the least painful in the operation”. Refusing to allow the Romans to take her as a prisoner to Rome, she selected the most painless poison, the bite of an asp, as her mode of suicide. Perhaps an asp was brought in a basket of figs; perhaps there was a golden spindle holding poison. Whatever her actual mode of suicide, in the triumphant procession organised by Octavius after her death, “there was carried a figure of Cleopatra with an asp clinging to her,” he said. The figure portrayed her respectfully, according to PLUTARCH, since the Romans “could not but admire the greatness of her spirit and gave orders that her body should be buried by Antony with royal splendour and magnificence.” The remains of Amun Temple in Taposiris Magna We began to work with MARTINEZ in 2005 at the Temple of Taposiris Magna, where the Supreme Council of Antiquities team (SCA), working under my direction, found many structures and artefacts on four levels of the site as well as shafts inside the Temple. The work done since 2011 has been by MARTINEZ only, and the documentation of the objects and the temple architecture has followed her research. We have to thank her for dedicating herself to this work, whether we agree about Cleopatra’s burial or not, and we have to see what is happening at the site now. Researchers have discovered several shafts inside and outside the temple. Some go 25 metres down into the rock. A large cemetery was also excavated outside the temple, and the most important object found there has been the large stone inscribed by Ptolemy V giving gifts to the priestesses of Isis. BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 There is no evidence to prove that Cleopatra was buried in the temple. But in my opinion there is nevertheless amazing work underway, particularly by the mission that has been working near Cleopatra’s royal quarters, now underwater, that has raised a nine-ton pylon that is almost definitely part of a Temple of Isis. The team has also found another exciting structure in the threshold of a monumental door that, with its granite and copper and lead facing, may have been a part of the door to Cleopatra’s tomb. Whether or not Cleopatra was actually buried in the tomb she built for herself in Alexandria, or whether she was buried in Taposiris Magna, she will remain one of history’s most mysterious, powerful and alluring women. It is hard to believe that a reporter in a respected newspaper like Il Messaggero would write such wrong information, because I did not say that Cleopatra’s tomb had been found. I have the right to talk about the work at the temple because I was the director of the excavations from 2005 until 2011, and during this time the Egyptian team did great work. But the idea that Cleopatra was buried in this temple is not my idea. It is the theory of MARTINEZ. (Zâhî Hawwâs, “Fake news of Cleopatra”, Al-Ahram Weekly, January 24, 2019. Voir également MENA, « Zâhî Hawwâs : La tombe de Cléopâtre sera bientôt exhumée à Alexandrie », Sada al-Balad, 14 janvier ; Mira Maged, “Italian news about Cleopatra tomb false: Zâhî Hawwâs”, Egypt Independent, January 25). - - Photo credit: Ministry of Antiquities Archaeological expedition by the Supreme Council of Antiquities revealed a group of 43 Janvier 2019 tombs dating back to the Second Intermediate Period of the Hyksos and 20 burials dating back to the period of Naqada III at Kom alKhilgân located on the border between the eastern province of al-Daqahliyya. vessels and some stone tools, such as blades and cutlery made from the walls. Photo credit: Ministry of Antiquities Photo credit: Ministry of Antiquities Mustafa Wazîrî, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, said that the graves contain animal fossils attached to it, and a group of broken black pottery known as the Jewish hill of the Second Era, as well as circular vessels and other small potsherds and pots of pottery. In one of these vessels, the expedition found seven jars, six of which were made of lanterns, with inscriptions and decorations of this period, and the seventh jar was made out of a semi-precious stone. The head of the archaeological mission, Sayyid al-Talhâwî, said that the mission had completed the work on the site, which is about one kilometer east of the al-Samâra hill, where the French mission has been operating for more than seven years. (Nour Eltigani, “Supreme Council of Antiquities Expedition Discovers A Number of Tombs and Burial Sites in Kom al-Khilgân”, Egyptian Streets, January 24, 2019. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie annonce la découverte de tombes de différentes époques à Kom al-Khilgân », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 23 janvier ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Mise au jour de tombes de différentes époques à Kom alKhilgân », Sada al-Balad, 23 janvier ; Sana’ Fârûq, « Découverte de tombes datant de la Deuxième Période Intermédiaire », Watanî, 23 janvier ; Nevine El-Aref, “Ancient tombs and prehistoric burials found in Nile Delta”, Ahram Online, January 24; “Ancient tombs discovered in Nile Delta”, Egypt Independent, January 25). - - Decorated scarabs Head of the Egyptian Antiquities Department, Ayman al-‘Ashmâwî, said that 20 burial sites have been found so far, all of which are in squatting condition. The burials date back to the Predynastic period; between 6000 BC and 3100 BC. Most of the burials were found in poor condition due to destruction by subsequent human activity. Inside some of the burials were some funerary objects, including a set of pottery BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Samedi 26 janvier 2019 Six Old Kingdom mastaba tombs, two Old Kingdom shaft tombs and one rock-cut tomb with multiple burials that were previously unknown were discovered last month by the Qubbat al-Hawâ Research Project (QHRP) in Aswân. Mustafa Wazîrî, the general-secretary of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, told Ahram Online that some of the tombs measure 44 Janvier 2019 190x285 cm and some measure 352x635 cm. One of the shaft tombs has an intact shaft. Martin BOMMAS, head of the mission and director of QHRP, said that although the tomb builders had blocked the entrance to the burial chamber of one of the tombs with a wall of carefully laid mud bricks, that particular tomb had been emptied in ancient times by looters who broke into the sepulchre through the rear wall, thus avoiding the security measures in place. He stressed the importance of the discovery of such a variety of high quality Late Period pottery, and its potential for scientific analysis. discoveries.” He said that all the discovered remains will be transferred to Aswân Antiquities storage. (Nevine El-Aref, “Nine Old Kingdom tombs discovered in Upper Egypt’s Aswân”, Ahram Online, January 26, 2019. Voir également Mahmûd Mullâ, « Découverte à Qubbat al-Hawâ de 6 tombes datant de l’Ancien Empire », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 20 janvier ; Ahmad Mansûr, « Mise au jour de 6 tombes datant de l’Ancien Empire à Qubbat al-Hawâ », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 20 janvier ; Muhammad al-Aswânî, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie annonce la découverte à Qubbat al-Hawâ de 6 tombes pharaoniques », Watanî, 20 janvier ; Angy Essam, “Six tombs dating back to the Old Kingdom uncovered in Aswân”, Egypt Today, January 21; Nour Eltigani, “Six Tombs Dating Back to Old Kingdom Discovered in Hawa Dome in Aswân”, Egyptian Streets, January 21). - - Luxor city on Thursday will celebrate the end of the Egyptian-American project seeking to restore and protect the tomb of King Tutankhamun, in the Valley of the Kings at the West Bank of Luxor. One of the tombs discovered ‘Abd al-Mu’min Sa‘îd, director of the Aswân Antiquities department, said that the discovery changes the understanding of the area of Qubbat al-Hawâ. He mentioned that these discoveries took place on the last day of 2018, the year which Minister of Antiquities Khâlid al-‘Inânî announced as “the year of archaeological BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 The project is the largest of its kind inside the tomb, which was discovered 96 years ago by British archaeologist Howard CARTER. The restoration project has been working for the past ten years. The ceremony will be held under the patronage of Antiquities Minister Khâlid al‘Inânî, Secretary General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities Mustafa Wazîrî, and attended by the famous Egyptologist Zâhî Hawwâs, the Chairman of the American Getty Conservation Institute (GCI), the Director of 45 Janvier 2019 the Institute’s mission in Luxor and local and foreign Egyptologists. The ceremony will include documentary films, pictures and explanations on the stages of work done on the Golden Pharaoh’s tomb. According to sources within the Egyptian Antiquities Ministry, the restoration and protection work carried out by a GCI team and a team from the Ministry included lighting and ventilation works, wooden floors inside the tomb, metal floors for the exterior entrance and restoration of the inscriptions, drawings and colours of the tomb. (“Largest restoration project for tomb of King Tutankhamun concludes in Luxor”, Egypt Independent, January 26, 2019. Voir également Muhammad al-Samkûrî, « Achèvement du plus grand projet de restauration et de préservation de la tombe de Toutankhamon », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 26 janvier ; Rânyâ ‘Abd al-‘Âtî, « Louqsor célèbre la restauration de la tombe de Toutankhamon », al-Ahrâm, 27 janvier). - Photo credit: Ministry of Antiquities Mustafa Wazîrî, secretary-general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, told Ahram Online that the galleries of the winery have a distinct architectural design, with thick mud brick walls of different sizes. Some of the walls bear in their mortar small blocks of limestone that appear to have been inserted randomly. - Dimanche 27 janvier 2019 Photo credit: Ministry of Antiquities “These blocks may have been used to achieve the temperature needed to preserve the wine,” Wazîrî suggested, adding that the wine produced in this area was of high quality and well-known in many parts of the world at the time. The storage cells An Egyptian archaeological mission has uncovered the third section of a GraecoRoman winery and its store galleries surrounded by a mud brick wall at Abû alMatâmîr archaeological site in al-Buhayra governorate. Adjacent is a residential settlement that was once used by the winery employees. Photo credit: Ministry of Antiquities Ashraf al-‘Ashmâwî, the head of the Ancient Egyptian Antiquities Department, BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 46 Janvier 2019 explains that the mission has also unearthed a collection of ovens and instruments including clay pots dating to both the Ptolemaic and Islamic periods. Among those objects are also handles of amphora and fragments of iron. al-‘Ashmâwî pointed out that the discovery highlights the strong relationship between Egypt and Greece over the span of history, as some of the artefacts bear stamps from both Greece and Egypt. (Nevine El-Aref, “GraecoRoman winery discovered in Egypt’s alBuhayra”, Ahram Online, January 27, 2019. Voir également Samar al-Naggâr, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie annonce la découverte d’un pressoir à vin à al-Buhayra », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 27 janvier ; Ahmad Mansûr, « Mise au jour d’un fragment d’un pressoir à vin dans le gouvernorat d’al-Buhayra », alYawm al-Sâbi‘, 27 janvier ; Liliane Nabîl, « Découverte d’un fragment d’un pressoir à vin dans le gouvernorat d’al-Buhayra », Watanî, 27 janvier ; “Ancient wine press and other artifacts discovered in Buhayra”, Egypt Independent, January 28; Muhammad ‘Abd alMu‘tî, « Découverte d’un fragment d’un pressoir à vin dans le gouvernorat d’alBuhayra », al-Ahrâm, 28 janvier ; “Archaeologists Discover Ancient Wine Cellar in Nile Delta”, Egyptian Streets, January 29; Dalia Farouq, « Les mystères du vin dévoilés », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 6 février). - - Le major général, Ahmad Zakî, président de la Compagnie en charge de l’édification de la nouvelle capitale administrative égyptienne, a déclaré que le plan urbanistique de celle-ci englobe la création d’un musée archéologique sur une grande superficie. La nouvelle capitale BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 bénéficiera ainsi de tous les atouts culturels, touristiques et économiques. Comment sera ce nouveau musée ? En voici quelques éléments de réponse : v Ce musée sera situé à côté du quartier gouvernemental. Sa construction débutera après l’achèvement du transfert des différents ministères vers la nouvelle capitale. v Une commission du ministère de l’Archéologie, regroupant d’éminents savants et d’anciens ministres de l’Archéologie, déterminera le style architectural du musée et les collections archéologiques qui y seront exposées. v Le ministre de l’Archéologie, Dr Khâlid al-‘Inânî, a confirmé que le musée de la nouvelle capitale administrative sera dédié à la tolérance religieuse. v Il regroupera des pièces pharaoniques, islamiques, coptes et juives. v Le musée vise à illustrer comment la civilisation égyptienne prône-t-elle le respect de toutes les religions et les civilisations qui se sont succédé sur l’Égypte. v Il vise également à montrer au monde entier que l’islam est respectueux de toutes les autres religions et que l’image négative véhiculée par les groupes terroristes ne reflète pas du tout la religion islamique. (Ahmad Hasan, « Le musée archéologique de la nouvelle capitale administrative », al-Yawm alSâbi‘, 27 janvier 2019. Voir également MENA, « Le musée de la nouvelle capitale administrative retrace l’histoire des différentes capitales égyptiennes à travers les siècles », Sada al-Balad, 24 janvier). - - 47 Janvier 2019 Mardi 29 janvier 2019 Le gouverneur du Caire, major général Khâlid ‘Abd al-‘Âl, a tenu une réunion élargie avec le président de la Bibliotheca Alexandrina (Bibalex), Dr Mustafa al-Fiqî, et ses assistants, en vue de suivre les travaux de réaménagement du palais Khadîga Hânim et sa transformation en un musée international des religions. Celui-ci est censé exposer des pièces archéologiques datant des différentes époques pharaonique, juive, copte et islamique. Construit il y a plus de 120 ans au cœur de la ville de Hilwân, le palais Khadîga Hânim compte 50 pièces sur une superficie de 500 m2. Après l’achèvement des travaux de rénovation, la municipalité étudie actuellement les possibilités de réaffectation de ce bijou architectural. (‘Abd al-Hâdî Tamâm « Transformation du palais Khadîga Hânim en un musée international des religions », alAhrâm, 29 janvier 2019). - plateau de Gîza et à Louqsor au cours desquelles le spectacle son et lumière sera diffusé en chinois. De nombreux ministres et experts dans les domaines touristique et culturel prendront part à ces cérémonies. Le président de l’Egyptian Sound and Light Show Company (ESLSC), Sâmih Sa‘d, a déclaré que l’introduction des spectacles en langue chinoise a été réalisée en coopération avec le Conseiller culturel chinois et la directrice du Centre culturel chinois au Caire, Madame Chen DONGYUN. Le spectacle a été enregistré avec les dernières technologies. Des acteurs chinois célèbres ont prêté leurs voix. L’été prochain, la langue chinoise sera introduite dans les spectacles son et lumière partout ailleurs. (Dâlyâ Minshâwî, « Pour la première fois, spectacles de son et lumière en chinois à Gîza et à Karnak », al-Ahrâm, 29 janvier 2019. Voir également Muhammad alSamkûrî, « Pour la première fois, spectacles de son et lumière en chinois », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 28 janvier ; « Spectacle de son et lumière en chinois, samedi », al-Shurûq, 28 janvier ; Mahmûd Nufal, « Le spectacle de son et lumière à Gîza doublé en chinois », Sada alBalad, 29 janvier). - - Mercredi 30 janvier 2019 - Pour la première fois, les spectacles son et lumière intègrent la langue chinoise en plus des huit autres langues adoptées : l’arabe, l’anglais, le français, l’italien, l’allemand, l’espagnol, le russe et le japonais. Pour marquer cet événement, deux célébrations seront organisées samedi prochain sur le BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 As a part of the vital restoration project in Khedival Cairo, Rihâm ‘Arrâm, General Manager for Cairo Heritage Preservation General Administration has collaborated with Heliopolis district to revitalize the facades of heritage buildings, al-Ahrâm reported, with plans to transform several into open museums. The Heliopolis district houses about 700 heritage buildings. 48 Janvier 2019 Brigadier Ahmad Anwar, President of Heliopolis referred to the project’s importance as it will add a special value to the district itself. He said that some that while some of these buildings have already been repaired, the real challenge comes from the inappropriate appearance of the surrounding buildings. plan in 2018 to complete renovation of alAzbakiyya Park in Central Cairo. (Mira Maged, “Heliopolis heritage buildings to become open museums”, Egypt Independent, January 30, 2019). - - Anwar added that a general restoration project will be proposed to Cairo Governor Khâlid ‘Abd al-‘Aal for all heritage buildings in the district, which will qualify them to be open museums, according to al-Ahrâm. The project is also expected to include street development by providing further green spaces. The Heliopolis renovation project will include the areas of Roxy, al-Khalîfa alMa’mûn, ‘Uthmân Ibn ‘Affân, Ismâ‘îliyya Square and more. Heliopolis is regarded as a host for various prominent historic buildings such as the Granda Building, al-Gâmi‘ Square, al-Kurba heritage buildings, various churches considered architectural gems and the Baron Palace, part of which will be turned into a museum. One fascinating building of note is the presidential palace, originally established as the Grand Heliopolis Palace Hotel in 1910. Une statue colossale du roi Ramsès II est arrivée la semaine dernière dans la nouvelle capitale administrative égyptienne. Elle a été transférée de son emplacement d’origine, un musée à ciel ouvert à Mît Rahîna, dans le gouvernorat de Gîza, vers un musée en cours de construction dans la nouvelle capitale administrative. The Normandy Outdoor Cinema is also considered another historic icon of Heliopolis. In a previous interview with al-Watan news, ‘Arrâm said that for buildings to be recorded as “heritage” they do not necessarily have to exceed 100 years of existence. She added that there are other measurements for buildings to be classified as “heritage”, including historical value or houses that are owned by public figures, like the house of the late prominent actor Mary Munîb located in Heliopolis. Khedival Cairo has recently seen various renovations such as in al-Sharifayn street, with many of the street’s banks, buildings having been beautifully restored. The National Committee for Developing and Preserving Historic Cairo previously set a BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 La statue, qui remonte à la XIXe dynastie, est en granit rose. Elle a été découverte dans la région de Kom al-Rabî‘a, à Mît Rahîna, première capitale de l’Égypte ancienne et connue dans l’antiquité sous le nom de Memphis. Lors de sa découverte, la statue de Ramsès Il était brisée en six morceaux. Elle a 49 Janvier 2019 été reconstruite avant d’être installée au musée à ciel ouvert de Mît Rahîna. Elle mesure 7,3 mètres de haut et 2,85 mètres de large. La statue, qui est posée sur un socle, représente le roi debout avec une couronne blanche et une barbe royale et portant un grand collier. Le socle repose sur une colonne sur laquelle sont gravés les titres connus du roi Ramsès II. Des études approfondies ont été effectuées avant le transfert de la statue, afin de s’assurer que le transport ne représente aucun risque et de garantir le maximum de sécurité pour la statue pharaonique. (Dalia Farouq, « Ramsès II dans la nouvelle capitale », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 30 janvier 2019. Voir également ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Transfert de la statue de Ramsès II de Mît Rahîna vers la nouvelle capitale administrative », Sada al-Balad, 23 janvier). - - Jeudi 31 janvier 2019 Gîza Plateau development plan includes demolishing unlicensed buildings in Nazlat al-Sammân The appeals judge in a southern Gîza court accepted on Sunday the appeal of 18 residents of Nazlat al-Sammân district in Gîza and ordered their release pending investigations into charges of resisting authorities, illegal assembly and injuring a police officer. The 18 were arrested a week earlier, during clashes between demonstrators and security forces, which erupted after authorities began to demolish unlicensed buildings in the neighbourhood. The demolitions began on 17 January and were coordinated between Gîza governorate, the Ministry of Antiquities and the Interior Ministry. As unlicensed buildings located in BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 the area of the Great Pyramids began to be demolished angry residents protested and were dispersed by security forces using tear gas. “We were protesting against the demolition of the entire neighbourhood of Nazlat al-Sammân,” Khâlid Tawfîq, a bazaar owner and a resident of the area, told AlAhram Weekly. A resident who preferred to speak anonymously said the protesters feared the demolitions would expand to include a majority of the area’s buildings. “We have been living and working in the same neighbourhood for years now... they cannot suddenly demolish our homes and relocate us somewhere else,” the resident said. The inhabitants of Nazlat al-Sammân, which is close to the Gîza Pyramids, depend on tourism for their livelihoods and fear their homes and businesses will be demolished, as happened in the Downtown Maspero Triangle area. “I was born here and I live with my family in a licensed building. They have no right to demolish licensed houses. Almost all of the residents here are working in tourism, some in bazaars, others providing tourist services or acting as tour guides. We are all attached to the place where we live and work. It would be difficult for us to be relocated to some other district,” Ahmad al-‘Arabî, a tour guide who lives in the district, told the Weekly. According to al-‘Arabî, residents of Nazlat al-Sammân are confused. They have no idea how the government plans to develop the Pyramids area and there are contradicting versions of the scale of the planned demolitions. Following the clashes a state of cautious calm prevailed as Central Security Forces and ambulances were deployed. Major General ‘Alâ’ Badrân, and assistant to the governor of Gîza, insists the demolition campaign targets only unlicensed properties built illegally within the last six months. 50 Janvier 2019 Gîza governorate has issued a statement denying rumours that all Nazlat al-Sammân’s residents will be evicted and the vacated land sold to an Arab investor. “Only four buildings have been demolished, all unlicensed and built in violation of construction and antiquities laws,” said the statement. It added that there was no intention to sell any land in such an important archaeological area, and that the unlicensed buildings were an eyesore. more than 100,000 artefacts. (Ahmed Morsy, “Developing the site of the Pyramids”, AlAhram Weekly, January 31, 2019. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « Fin des empiètements sur la zone archéologique de Gîza », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 17 janvier ; « Réaménagement de la zone des Pyramides : 32 ans de retard, d’atermoiements et d’autres choses », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 22 janvier). - - The governorate also underlined that the demolition of the buildings was done in accordance with the law and no inhabited buildings were included. Two years ago the government announced that it was close to finalising plans to develop the area surrounding the Pyramids. The scheme had initially been mooted in 2009 when the current Prime Minister Mustafa Madbûlî was chairman of the General Authority for Urban Planning. In 2014, when Madbûlî was Minister of Housing, the scheme was renewed, and groundwork on its implementation began last year, when Madbûlî was appointed prime minister. The plan appears to be part of the preparations for the 2020 opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum, located two kilometres from the Pyramids and the Sphinx. Minister of Antiquities Khâlid al-‘Inânî says the ministry plans to develop the area to maximise its potential as a global tourist attraction, transforming the whole site into an open air museum by linking its different elements, including the Grand Egyptian Museum, by a network of thoroughfares. The development plan includes removing the Shooting Club, redirecting the Fayyûm road to a newly constructed tunnel, improving the infrastructure-serving visitors and upgrading the sound and light show. Around 8,000 workers are on site each day working on the Grand Egyptian Museum. The museum will eventually cover 500,000 square metres, of which 168,000 square metres will form dedicated exhibition spaces showing BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 A bird’s eye view of the Great Pyramid Despite the rumours that sometimes still circulate about the Great Pyramids, these wonders of the ancient world were undoubtedly built by the ancient Egyptians themselves, writes Zâhî Hawwâs. It was recently announced that a Russian project called “Isis” under the supervision of the KGB had found a mummy of a space creature 13,000 years old and mummified it using the same mummification techniques used by the ancient Egyptians during the period of the former Soviet Union. This was used to claim that aliens built the Pyramids and the information was found in a search of KGB files. Russian intelligence has made a documentary to prove the existence of this “space mummy” found in the Gîza necropolis, and it is said that Victor IVANOVICH, the former Kremlin scientific advisor, was the one who found the files. This information is false and has no truth to it at all, since there was no Russian expedition working in the Gîza area during the 1960s. There was no mummy found inside the Pyramids at Gîza, and there was no project called “Isis”. This is all media hype, which has no factual basis. How was it ascertained that 51 Janvier 2019 the alleged mummy was 13,000 years old, and how was the existence of the alien mummy explained in the first place? I think that the reasoning behind this announcement only shows that IVANOVICH is unreliable and unstable. No Russian mission worked in the area during these years. There was a mission working in affiliation with a Russian university in the Eastern Cemetery recording the tombs, but this did not unearth any new ones. We have become acquainted with such ridiculous news regarding the Great Pyramid of Khufu, and I always say in my lectures that if someone stands in front of the Great Pyramid without reading about or understanding the ancient Egyptian civilisation, then they will not believe that ordinary people could have built this ancient wonder. They would not know that this was the national project of the Egyptians at the time. There have been a lot of false claims made about the Great Pyramid of Khufu. The first is that the builders only worked for four months during the flood season. The second is the belief, based on a reading of the ancient Turin Papyrus that Khufu only ruled for about 23 years. The third is the misconception that there are 2,300,000 stone blocks in the Pyramids. The fourth is that the stones used to build the Pyramids were brought from quarries in Tura. All of these ideas have no scientific basis, and they will be tackled in this article. One of the most important pieces of evidence that proves that the builders of the Pyramids were Egyptians has been the discovery of the tombs of the Pyramid builders, which proved to the world that the Egyptians were the real builders of these ancient wonders. It also showed that they were not slaves, since they chose their burials next to the Pyramids and even prepared their tombs and funerary equipment. The excavation of the tombs also found that some of the tombs were built in a pyramid shape, proving that the idea the pyramid shape was exclusive to the king was not true. BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 The pyramid shape was associated with the god Re, and everyone who could afford to build a tomb was allowed to build it using the attributes of the divinity. The main difference between king and subject was that the king built his pyramid using stone, while the workers used mud brick to construct their tombs. In addition to the tombs, dwelling areas were also discovered, along with huts, bakeries, and spaces for drying fish. The excavations also showed that the labourers worked all year round in moving the stones, and that they had one day off for every 10 days of work. Well-established families from all over the country would send workers as a donation to their king, and in return they did not have to pay taxes. The upper cemetery was reserved for the artists who sculpted statues, and some were overseers of the work in the complex. The lower cemetery was for the workers who moved the stones. To feed the workers around 13 cows and 15 sheep were sent every day to the site. It was previously believed that the workers depended mainly on onions, garlic and barley, but in fact they also ate meat on a daily basis. A study was conducted to analyse the bones found in the cemetery, and this revealed that the men and women working there had various back problems from moving the stones, and that women were also involved in the construction of the Pyramids, mainly in nursing workers, working in food preparation and drying fish. An estimated 10,000 workers were involved in building the Pyramids based on the material evidence found. As for Khufu’s reign, there is a scene engraved in a quarry in the Western Desert that shows the king in year 27 of his reign. The recently discovered Wâdî al-Garf Papyrus also mentions year 26 of the king’s reign. When these two new pieces of evidence are put into consideration, it is now believed that the great king may have ruled for between 30 and 32 years. 52 Janvier 2019 The opinion regarding the number of stones used to build the Pyramids has no evidence behind it. It is apparent, however, that the people who have said that 2,300,000 blocks were used did not know that the base of the Pyramids are built of solid rock, meaning that the ancient Egyptians dug down until they reached a depth of about eight metres. The base of the Pyramids would have had the largest number of blocks; therefore, we believe that the Great Pyramid was built with no more than one million blocks, each weighing between half a ton and two-and-ahalf tons. Finally, regarding the misconception that the blocks were brought from quarries in Tura, it has been proven that the stone blocks that built the Pyramids were cut from the Gîza Plateau itself, which was actually one of the considerations that the architects used to base their decision before choosing a site for construction. Only the casing of the Pyramids used white limestone blocks from Tura. These false facts about the construction of the Pyramids may have led some to believe that the ancient Egyptians could not have moved all these blocks and that only space creatures could have completed such a task. In addition to the size of the Great Pyramid, with a base of 230 metres and taking up an area of about 13 acres, it has been claimed that if the stones were cut into small blocks, they would cover one third of the Earth and could build a wall around France. Sadly, this information is also misleading, and it has led many to believe in false facts, even attributing the Pyramids to the ancient city of Atlantis, aliens or Jews. COUNTERING FALSEHOODS: I lived for many years next to the Pyramids myself during some of the best years of my life, and over the years I encountered people who believed in these false facts. One of them was that the Jews were the true builders of the Pyramids, even though all the linguistic and archaeological evidence proves that the Jews were not in Egypt during BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 the construction of the Pyramids. In all the tombs in the cemetery of the Pyramid builders, not one Hebrew name or artefact has ever been found. When former Israeli prime minister Menachem BEGIN came to Egypt and visited the Pyramids complex, the Egyptian journalist Huda Tawfîq asked him when he was standing in front of the Sphinx, “do you still believe that the Jews built the Pyramids?” BEGIN answered by saying that the ancient Egyptians were the real builders of these ancient wonders. The Israeli newspaper Maariv also wrote about the discovery of the tombs of the Pyramid builders and said that this ended the theory that the Jews had built the Pyramids. There is also the story of three foreigners, one American, one British, and the third an Egyptian living in Europe, who promoted the idea that the Pyramids were built in alignment with the stars in the Orion belt about 15,000 years ago. At a conference in Chicago recently, this idea was declared to be completely false as a way of ending its unfortunate popularity. I explained that this theory was not true, and that there was a lack of evidence to support the existence of any civilisation before the Pharaonic civilisation in Egypt. However, some then claimed that there was evidence under the Sphinx showing that its construction dated to 15,000 years ago. They wanted to drill down next to the Sphinx to prove this, which I refused. However, when the Sphinx was in danger due to the water table rising, we had to conduct a drilling project to save it. The team made 32 drillholes around the Great Pyramid to a depth of 20 metres, and these showed that there was nothing underneath the Sphinx, and that it was built from solid rock. There is also the Edgar CAYCE group that believes that the US clairvoyant Edgar CAYCE once lived in the lost city of Atlantis, and when it was destroyed he came to Egypt with a box that contained the technology used by the ancient Egyptians to build the Pyramids. The group believes that this box is buried underneath the right paw of the Sphinx. 53 Janvier 2019 I once lectured to this group in the company of Egyptologists Ahmad al-Sâwî and Nâsif Hasan at the Mena House Hotel near the Pyramids, and we presented all the evidence that discredits this theory. I even once gave a lecture in Virginia in front of all the members of the group, providing them with all the evidence needed to prove that their theories were not true. But sadly, this theory is still alive amongst these members. There are also people who believe that the Pyramids were once granaries used by the Prophet Joseph to store wheat in order to avoid any starvation that might occur due to the low flood level of the Nile. There are many other ridiculous theories about the Great Pyramid that are beyond the scope of this article. When the Egyptian TV host ‘Amr Adîb once asked me the reason behind all these beliefs, I said that such people were trying to associate their dreams with this great monument, since it is the only surviving Wonder of the Ancient World and a lot of people try to use the fame of the Pyramids to become famous themselves. There is even a weekly show in Los Angeles about the aliens who built the Pyramids. BUILT BY THE EGYPTIANS: Here I would like to provide all the evidence needed to prove without a shred of doubt that the Pyramids were built by their own people, the ancient Egyptians, and that all the other allegations have no factual basis. First, there are about 124 pyramids in Egypt belonging to the kings and queens of the Old and Middle Kingdoms. The Pyramid of Khufu is one of these, and it has 14 architectural features associated with a complete pyramid complex, with each feature having a certain function in reviving the soul of the dead king. These features include a valley temple, causeway, and mortuary temple. The causeway, which was 710 metres long, is currently underneath the modern village of Nazlat al-Sammân. There were also living quarters for the priests, the builders’ living area, and the workshops that produced the BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 various artifacts inside the temple and prepared the food and drink to be given as offerings in front of statues of the king. Sadly, the people who spread false rumours today do not know about these features and only talk about the Pyramid itself. Second, graffiti has been found inside the Great Pyramid left by the different teams working on the construction. The graffiti was found within the five inner chambers and was recorded. The first room is called Davison’s Chamber and does not include any graffiti. The second chamber is called Wellington’s Chamber and has graffiti on the north of the western wall representing the name of the king in a cartouche along with the name of one of the work groups, “the white crown of Khnum Khuf”, and bears the year 17 of the king’s reign. The opposite eastern wall has the remains of the king’s cartouche. The third room is called Nelson’s Chamber, and it contained the name of another group called “Medjedu”, which is one of Khufu’s names, specifically his Horus name. The fourth chamber, Lady Arbuthnot’s Chamber, contains the name “Horus Medjedu” and the white crown group more than once. The fifth room is called Campbell’s Chamber and has the group name “the friends of King Khufu”. This is the room that some German individuals recently entered through the efforts of an Egyptian who lives in Europe and tried to prove that the Pyramids were 15,000 years old and that they can be attributed to the people of Atlantis. Third, the tombs to the west of the Great Pyramid, dating from the Fourth until the Eighth Dynasty, include many texts from the priests who oversaw the cult of the dead king, in addition to the workers, and was referred to as “Akhet Khufu”, meaning “Khufu’s horizon”. Fourth, the queens’ pyramids to the east belonged to Khufu’s wife and his mother Hetepheres, in addition to the tombs associated with the royal family. Fifth, there is the discovery of the Wâdî alGarf Papyrus on the Red Sea not far from Suez 54 Janvier 2019 at a port known as the Port of Khufu. The papyrus is in the form of a journal that belonged to the head of the workers, a man named Merer, who was in charge of a team of 40 people. These were responsible for transporting the stones from the quarries in Tura to the Gîza Plateau on a ship along the Nile. There was also another channel dug up to the west, so that the dock would be close to the construction site. The remains of the ports of Khufu and Khafra have been found. Merer also mentions the overseer of the works in “Ra-She” and the entrance to the Plateau as being called “Ankh-haf” and that the entrance received granite blocks that came from the southern quarries of Aswân, together with limestone from Tura, basalt from Fayyûm, and alabaster from Hatnûb. The workers would sign the first letter of their names as proof of their attendance at the site. Merer also mentioned that the Pyramids area was called “Ankh Khufu”, meaning “Life to Khufu”, and the Great Pyramid was called “Akhet Khufu”, meaning “Khufu’s Horizon”. He also mentions the year 26 of Khufu’s reign. I consider this papyrus, which was found by French scholar Pierre TALLET, to be one of the most important discoveries of the 21st century. Sixth, the Wâdî al-Garf Papyrus includes evidence that proves that Khufu lived in his palace next to the construction site. I once wrote an article regarding this topic based on an inscription found in the tomb of Senejem-ib from the Fifth Dynasty, which mentions that the king Djed-ka-ra lived in his palace next to his Pyramid. Therefore, I said that the Pyramids were the national project of all Egyptians. How could the king have lived in Memphis? Especially as it would have taken a long time to inspect the construction site since there were no horses in Egypt at the time. Seventh, as I mentioned earlier, the discovery of the tombs of the Pyramid builders proves that the workers were Egyptians. We have also found various titles in the tombs that give insights into the administration and management of the project, such as “inspector of the eastern corner of the Pyramid” and “inspector responsible for the BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 port”, along with many titles belonging to priests and artists who were part of the workforce. Eighth, there is the discovery by a French team of the Hatnûb quarries north of Tell alAmarna. These quarries were used for the alabaster needed to make statues and for the flooring of temples. The team found the name of Khufu, along with a method for moving the blocks from the quarry to Giza. Ninth, there is a papyrus dating to the Middle Kingdom known as the Westcar Papyrus that discuses a tale relating to Khufu. The story goes that the king wanted to know the secrets of Thoth, the god of wisdom, and of writing so he could build his Pyramid. Khufu’s son pointed him in the direction of a magician called Gedey, who was known to have cut a goose’s neck and brought it back to life. He knew the secret of the god Thoth, he said. The magician was brought to the king, and Khufu asked him to cut someone’s neck, but he refused. Khufu brought a prisoner, but the magician said that the prisoner was still a human being. So, a goose was brought, and the magician performed his trick. When the king asked about the secret of the god Thoth, he said, “this secret will be known to the sons who are born from a woman in Heliopolis, and they will rule Egypt.” Tenth, there were priests of the Pyramid of Khufu even as late as the 26th Dynasty, and these were responsible for reviving the spirit of the dead king. All of this evidence shows that the real builders of the Pyramids were the ancient Egyptians themselves. They are also recorded in a book, “Gîza and the Pyramids”, co-written by myself and the American Egyptologist Mark LEHNER. Anyone who tries to prove that the Pyramids were built for other purposes than the burial of the king is guilty of falsehood. I think that we should not respond to any of these false theories anymore, with which people are trying to steal what we hold dear to our hearts, namely the Pyramids and the 55 Janvier 2019 Pharaonic civilisation. (Zâhî Hawwâs, “The Egyptians built the Pyramids”, Al-Ahram Weekly, January 31, 2019). - - The German archaeologist Rainer STADELMANN passed away on 14 January, and all those who knew him or knew of him will recognise this great loss to the field of archaeology, Egyptology, and to all of us in Egypt, Germany, and the rest of the world. I first met STADELMANN around 25 years ago when he used to come to visit Zâhî Hawwâs in the Gîza Pyramids area. STADELMANN was a very modest man, great scholar, and wonderful lover of Egypt and its antiquities. He helped the country enormously in terms of studying and saving its monuments and helping and training Egyptian archaeologists when he was the director of the Deutsches Archäologisches Institut Kairo (DAIK). He was very gifted on all levels. On the personal level, with Hawwâs and ‘Alî Radwân he was one of the three men who wrote letters of recommendation for me in order to study for my PhD in Egyptology and Near Eastern Archaeology at Johns Hopkins University in the US in 2002. With Hawwâs and Mark LEHNER, STADELMANN was one of the best scholars of the Pyramids Age. He had a long a career studying and working in the archaeological field in Egypt. He was born on 24 October 1933 in Oettingen in Bavaria in Germany. He studied Egyptology and Near Eastern and Classical Archaeology at the universities of Munich and Heidelberg and received his PhD degree from Heidelberg University in 1960. BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 He first served as an assistant professor in Heidelberg and obtained his habilitation in 1967. He was then appointed deputy-director of the DAIK, where he later served as director from 1989 to 1998 in one of the golden ages of the institute. STADELMANN was an internationally renowned scholar. He published widely on a wide range of Egyptological topics. His PhD dissertation was on the veneration of SyroPalestinian deities in ancient Egypt in what became a standard study of the subject. Then he moved to fieldwork on the Theban Temples, especially the royal funerary temples, particularly the Temple of Seti I at Gurna and the Temple of Millions of Years of Amenhotep III at Kom al-Hîtân. He became an authority on this very interesting topic. However, the most important expertise of STADELMANN’s scholarly work is the archaeology, art and history of the Old Kingdom, especially the Pyramids Age. His work concentrated on the great Pharaohs of the Fourth Dynasty and their monuments. He contributed extensively to this topic through his fieldwork in Dahshûr and his scholarly publications. As the director of the DAIK, STADELMANN further developed the profile of the institute to include many amazing and innovative projects. He was among the institute’s most successful directors, deepening cooperation with Egyptian archaeologists and stakeholders and supporting them to unprecedented levels. He received the Federal Cross of Merit (Bundesverdienstkreuz), the Grand Officer of the Order of the Republic of Egypt, and the Egyptian Hathor Medal in recognition of his achievements. He was a member of the Académie des Inscriptions et Belles Lettres in Paris and was also an honorary professor at Heidelberg University. STADELMANN’s passing has come as a great shock to Egyptology and Egyptian archaeology. Scholars across the world have been saddened by the loss of a respected colleague, a highly appreciated friend, and a wonderful human being. 56 Janvier 2019 Emmanuel Macron et son épouse devant le temple d’Abû Simbil © Ludovic MARIN. AFP The last time I met with him was in Baltimore at Johns Hopkins University when he and his wife, Hourig SOUROUZIAN, came to give a wonderful lecture about their excavations at the Temple of Amenhotep III at Kom al-Hîtân in Western Thebes. Last year, the Bibliotheca Alexandrina Antiquities Museum organised a major exhibition on the work of STADELMANN and SOUROUZIAN at this temple, celebrating 20 years of their achievements there. It was opened by Mustafa al-Fiqî, director of the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, and it was a great success. Although STADELMANN was ill at the time and was not able to attend the exhibition in person, his spirit and achievements were very much among us. We shall all greatly miss STADELMANN, and all condolence is due to his wife and coscholar SOUROUZIAN for her loss. (Husayn ‘Abd al-Basîr, “Lover of Egypt’s Pyramids. Obituary: Rainer STADELMANN (1933-2019)”, Al-Ahram Weekly, January 31, 2019. Voir également Dalia Farouq, « STADELMANN n’est plus… », AlAhram Hebdo du 23 janvier). - - Abû Simbil Temple in Aswân was the first stop in the French President Emmanuel MACRON’s visit to Egypt earlier this week, a detour that came within the 2019 EgyptFrench cultural year initiative. BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Together with his wife Brigitte, MACRON and his delegation toured the Ramses II and Nefertari temples, and viewed documents and photographs telling the story of how both temples were salvaged. MACRON and his wife were guided by Antiquities Minister Khâlid al‘Inânî, head of the Egyptian delegation assigned by the presidency to accompany the French group. They were also joined by Tourism Minister Rânyâ al-Mashât and Aswân Governor Ahmad Ibrâhîm. Emmanuel MACRON, son homologue égyptien ‘Abd al-Fattâh alSîsî et leurs épouses Brigitte MACRON et Intisâr ‘Âmir au palais présidentiel du Caire le 28 janvier, 2019. © Ludovic MARIN. AFP MACRON and his wife expressed admiration for the techniques used in the construction of both Abû Simbil Temples. France was among the countries that helped Egypt rescue both Abû Simbil Temples from the rising waters of Lake Nâsir in the 1960s, following the construction of the High Dam, and transfer them from their original location to their current site overlooking the lake. 57 Janvier 2019 Brigitte Macron devant le plateau de Gîza © AFP Photo/HO/Egyptian Presidency Arriving in Cairo, Brigitte MACRON visited the Gîza Plateau and the Muhammad ‘Alî Mosque in the Citadel. She was guided by Fâtma ‘Abdallah, who told Al-Ahram Weekly Mrs MACRON had said she wished that her husband had also been able to enjoy the tour. As well as the mosque and mausoleum of Muhammad ‘Alî Pasha at the Citadel, France’s first lady visited King Fârûq’s tea kiosk where she listened to Sufi songs from Sheikh Husayn al-Rifâ‘î. President MACRON visited the Arts District, the Cairo Opera House and the planned Antiquities Museum at the New Administration Capital with President ‘Abd al-Fattâh al-Sîsî. Emmanuel Macron visite le temple d’Abû Simbil © Ludovic MARIN. AFP They inspected several buildings, as well as the two obelisks restored and transported to the New Capital late last year from Tanis in Delta. The obelisks are carved in red granite and date from the reign of Ramses II. Each is 15 metres tall and weighs 70 tons. (Nevine ElAref, “Visiting history”, Al-Ahram Weekly, January 31, 2019). - - BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 58 II – FEVRIER 2019 Vendredi 1er février 2019 project specialist at the Getty Conservation Institute, told Reuters news agency. “You can’t attach to the floor, ceiling or wall, so you have to design all of those components to be self-supporting in a way so they don’t damage any historically significant features.” After almost a decade, conservators in Egypt have finally revealed the newly restored tomb of Tutankhamen, better known as King Tut. The Egyptian Ministry of Antiquities, in collaboration with the Getty Conservation Institute, have cleaned up the murals depicting the scenes from the pharaoh’s life and inserted an air filtration and ventilation system into the tomb. The paintings were previously affected by humidity, dust and carbon dioxide. New barriers will now restrict physical access to the paintings, and a new viewing platform with lighting and interpretive signage will enhance the visitors’ view of the tomb. “We wanted to design a sustainable system that can hold up to visitors every day, and you also wanted to have a low impact on the archaeology itself,” Sara LARDINOIS, a BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 An exact, full-sized replica of Tutankhamun’s tomb was built in Egypt in 2014, but to ensure the real one can remain open; the conservators took measures to counter tourist damage. (“Iconic King Tutankhamun Tomb Unveiled to Public After Restoration”, Egyptian Streets, February 1st, 2019). - - Dimanche 3 février 2019 La compagnie BTP chargée du projet du musée archéologique d’Hurghada a achevé près de 70 % des travaux de construction du bâtiment principal, composé de deux étages. Les opérations se poursuivent dans l’annexe administrative et le mur d’enceinte. L’ensemble du gros œuvre sera achevé dans trois mois, conformément au calendrier prévu. Au terme d’une tournée d’inspection, la directrice du département des musées, Ilhâm Salâh al-Dîn, a annoncé qu’une commission ministérielle planche actuellement sur la sélection des 1 000 pièces archéologiques qui y seront exposées. Le but ultime étant la promotion du patrimoine et la hausse du nombre de touristes et par conséquent des recettes du ministère de l’Archéologie. De son côté, le gouverneur de la mer Rouge, Ahmad ‘Abdallah, a rappelé que grâce à l’accord conclu avec le ministre de l’Archéologie, Dr Khâlid al-‘Inânî, le musée d’Hurghada s’étend sur une superficie de 3 000 m2. Il abritera les milliers de pièces 59 Février 2019 antiques entreposées dans les réserves du gouvernorat de Qinâ, faute de lieu d’exposition approprié. Ce musée est le fruit d’un partenariat public-privé. Bien entendu, le musée d’Hurghada sera géré par le ministère et les organismes gouvernementaux intéressés. Il sera soumis à la protection de la Police du Tourisme et des Antiquités. L’inauguration de ce musée est prévue au cours de la seconde moitié de 2019. (Muhammad al-Sayyid, « Achèvement de 70 % des travaux de construction du musée d’Hurghada en collaboration avec le secteur privé », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 3 février 2019. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « Inauguration fin 2019 du musée d’Hurghada », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 16 mai). - - Les services de sécurité de l’aéroport international d’Hurghada ont arrêté un voyageur allemand en possession de 26 pièces archéologiques dissimulées dans ses bagages. Il s’agit de : un ouchebti de 24 cm en terre cuite, inscrit d’hiéroglyphes, trois fragments de statues inscrites, un collier en faïence bleue et verte, trois amulettes pharaoniques en faïence, un petit scarabée en ivoire, deux autres scarabées de taille moyenne portant des inscriptions hiératiques, cinq monnaies d’époque gréco-romaine, une lampe décorée de la tête d’Hathor, neuf fragments de céramique décorée, ainsi qu’un fragment de lin ayant appartenu à une momie. (Muhammad al-Sayyid, « Arrestation à l’aéroport d’Hurghada d’un voyageur allemand en possession de 26 pièces antiques », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 3 février 2019. Voir également Hâtim Muhsib, « Échec d’une tentative d’exportation illicite de pièces pharaoniques vers le Turquie », al-Ahrâm, 4 février). - mission franco-italienne à Tebtynis (Umm alBuraygât) dans l’oasis du Fayyûm. Cette exposition est organisée par le ministère de l’Archéologie, avec la collaboration de l’Institut français d’archéologie orientale (Ifao) et de l’Università degli studi di Milano. Elle se tient dans la salle 44 du Musée Égyptien de Tahrîr et s’inscrit dans le cadre de l’année culturelle France Égypte 2019. La présidente du département des musées, Ilhâm Salâh, a précisé que cette exposition, qui regroupe près de deux cents pièces, se tiendra durant deux mois. Les pièces exposées ont été découvertes au cours des trois dernières décennies. Elles restituent les détails de la vie quotidienne dans ce village entre le IIIe siècle av. et le IXe siècle apr. J.-C. - Lundi 4 février 2019 Le ministre de l’Archéologie, Dr Khâlid al‘Inânî, a inauguré lundi une exposition temporaire consacrée aux fouilles de la BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 60 Février 2019 De son côté, la directrice du Musée Égyptien, Sabâh ‘Abd al-Râziq, a souligné que parmi les pièces exposées figurent : trois fenêtres en bois datant des Ier et IIe siècles apr. J.-C., des ustensiles de cuisine en bois, des paniers et d’autres objets métalliques exhumés à l’intérieur des maisons. À cela s’ajoutent quelques poteries pour la cuisine et le stockage des denrées, remontant aux époques ptolémaïque, romaine et byzantine. Il y a également des lampes, des stèles représentant quelques divinités comme Soknebtynis et Isis-Thermouthis, des sculptures en terracotta, quelques pièces de monnaie, des bijoux (colliers, bracelets, boucles d’oreilles, bagues) façonnés pour la plupart en bronze ou en matériaux plus modestes comme les coquillages ou la glaise ; ce qui fournit un indice sur les conditions économiques des habitants de Tebtynis. les plus riches en papyrus. Près de 10 000 papyrus y ont été mis au jour. La moitié de ces textes sont rédigés en égyptien et en grec. Rappelant que le site de Tebtynis a été découvert en 1899. Plusieurs missions anglaises et allemandes y avaient entrepris des fouilles archéologiques. La dernière en date fut une mission italienne dont les travaux se sont poursuivis jusqu’en 1936. Malheureusement, le site a été victime de pillage et de nombreuses dégradations dus aux pilleurs archéologiques et aux sebakhin. Prof. Claudio GALLAZZI ‘Abd al-Râziq a ajouté que l’exposition regroupe également une collection remarquable d’outils de beauté et d’ornement dont des petits flacons de parfum et d’onguents, des peignes en bois, des épingles à cheveux en bois, en os ou en métal. À cela s’ajoutent des vêtements, des chaussures, des instruments de musique et des documents. Tebtynis est considéré comme l’un des sites BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 En 1988, la mission conjointe de l’Ifao et de l’Università degli studi di Milano, présidée par le Prof. Claudio GALLAZZI et la chercheuse Gisèle HADJI-MINAGLOU, a repris les fouilles à Tebtynis. De nouveaux quartiers d’habitation et des maisons exceptionnelles ont été dégagés. Parmi les découvertes les plus remarquables figurent une chapelle dédiée à la déesse Isis-Thermouthis, un grand entrepôt pour céréales datant du IIe siècle av. J.-C., des bains publics remontant aux IIIe et IIe siècles av. J.-C., ainsi que de nombreux bâtiments : boulangeries, magasins et ateliers. (Samar alNaggâr, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie inaugure une exposition sur les résultats des fouilles de la mission franco-égyptienne à Umm al-Buraygât », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 4 février 61 Février 2019 2019. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « La directrice du Musée Égyptien : L’exposition des fouilles franco-égyptiennes regroupe des pièces exceptionnelles », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 4 février ; Mustafa Marie, “Min. of antiquities inaugurates exhibition in Tahrîr’s Egyptian Museum”, Egypt Today, February 4; MENA, « Les fouilles d’une mission franco-italienne exposées pour la première fois au Musée Égyptien », Sada al-Balad, 4 février ; MENA, « Le Musée Égyptien expose les résultas des fouilles d’une mission franco-italienne dans le Fayyûm », al-Shurûq, 4 février ; Ranâ Gawhar, « 200 pièces archéologiques restituent la vie quotidienne dans le Fayyûm », al-Ahrâm, 5 février ; Sanâ’ Fârûq, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie inaugure une exposition temporaire sur les fouilles de la mission franco-italienne », Watanî, 5 février ; Mira Maged, “Minister of Antiquities inaugurates new exhibition at Egyptian Museum”, Egypt Independent, February 5; Doaa Elhami, « La vie de tout un village exposée », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 13 février). - - The General Administration of Tourism and Antiquities Police released an official statement on Sunday announcing that an illegal excavation in the Nazlat al-Sammân village near the Great Pyramids of Gîza accidentally led to the discovery of an ancient burial site. The age of the newly discovered burial site is yet to be disclosed. Police said in the statement that they had found two excavations in the area, the first being 1.5 meters deep while the second was four meters deep. In one of the areas a corridor leading to a rock-hewn room with dimensions of 2 meters by 2.5 meters was discovered, alongside a well-carved rock. At the second excavated area, six wall-relief statues missing parts such as their legs and heads were found in a room. The statement said that the illegal digging occurred under a modern house built close to the Pyramids. BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 The house’s owner was illegally excavating under the building to search for artifacts when the discovery was made. The owner escaped from arrest, with police currently on the lookout to arrest them. (Mira Maged, “Illegal excavation near Gîza accidentally uncovers ancient tomb”, Egypt Independent, February 4, 2019. Voir également « La Police du Tourisme et des antiquités découvre une tombe antique à Gîza », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 3 février). - - Le conseiller du Premier ministre japonais, Kentaro SONOURA, a effectué aujourd’hui une visite du Grand Musée Égyptien (GEM) à la tête d’une délégation de hauts responsables et de l’ambassadeur du Japon au Caire, S.E.M. Masaki NOKE. Ils ont été reçus par le directeur général des affaires archéologiques du GEM, Dr Târiq Tawfîq. La délégation a pu visiter les laboratoires de restauration du GEM pour se rendre compte des réalisations enregistrées. (Ahmad Mansûr, « Le conseiller du Premier ministre japonais visite le GEM », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 4 février 2019. Voir également MENA, « Le conseiller du Premier ministre japonais vante le projet du GEM », Sada al-Balad, 4 février). - - Mercredi 6 février 2019 Dix ans après le lancement du projet de restauration de la tombe du célèbre pharaon Toutankhamon, les visiteurs pourront enfin de nouveau contempler les trésors du jeune pharaon. C’est en 2009 que le Getty Conservation Institute (GCI), de Los Angeles, et le ministère égyptien des Antiquités ont entamé un long et grand projet pour restaurer cette tombe. L’objectif premier est alors de 62 Février 2019 stabiliser l’état de ce vestige archéologique inédit, mis à rude épreuve par un siècle de tourisme. « 100 ans de visite, après avoir été scellée pendant 3 000 ans ! Vous imaginez l’impact sur l’état de la tombe ? », a souligné Neville AGNEW, responsable du projet conduit par le GCI de Los Angeles. En effet, depuis sa découverte, le tombeau de Toutankhamon est un haut lieu du tourisme en Égypte, au point de devenir un site surfréquenté, victime de l’affluence des touristes. Ce qui lui a provoqué d’inévitables dégradations : les variations du niveau d’humidité de l’air, ainsi que le dioxyde de carbone dégagé par la respiration des touristes ont mis à mal le fragile équilibre de l’atmosphère du tombeau. Interrompu quelque temps après la révolution égyptienne de 2011 et l’instabilité politique qui a suivi, le projet de restauration a repris par la suite et vient à peine de s’achever. La première étape du projet a été d’entreprendre une étude complète, notamment sur l’état des célèbres peintures murales jaunes et ocre ornant la chambre funéraire du jeune roi Toutankhamon, qui a régné il y a plus de 3 300 ans. Lori WONG, conservatrice, spécialiste des peintures murales, a notamment cherché à comprendre « la composition matérielle des peintures, comment elles ont été appliquées, comprendre l’état actuel des peintures, savoir si elles sont en danger, et établir un plan pour les sauvegarder pour l’avenir », a-t-elle dit. Introduits dans la tombe appelée par les archéologues « KV62 », les microscopes des scientifiques ont même pu scruter, avec la plus grande précision, de mystérieuses « taches brunes », caractéristiques de cette tombe BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 royale. En fait, l’équipe en charge de la restauration réunissait plus de 25 spécialistes sur les lieux : archéologues, architectes, ingénieurs et microbiologistes. La crainte était qu’elles ne soient devenues une menace pour les représentations murales de Toutankhamon. Mais les scientifiques sont parvenus, grâce à ce projet de conservation, à établir qu’il s’agissait d’organismes microbiologiques morts depuis longtemps. Seul problème : impossible de les retirer car ils sont profondément incrustés dans la peinture. « Nous avons fait de la conservation, pas de restauration », a insisté M. AGNEW. Des tentatives de restauration avaient été faites auparavant, précise-t-il, soulignant que la mission du GCI était, elle, de stabiliser et de conserver les lieux. « Et puis les taches brunes font partie de l’histoire », indique-t-il, en ajoutant qu’elles n’ont pas évolué depuis la découverte de CARTER. Parallèlement, des architectes ont repensé la plateforme où les visiteurs se tiennent, afin de les éloigner de la fragile paroi. En outre, des ingénieurs ont élaboré un nouveau système de ventilation pour limiter les effets dévastateurs du dioxyde de carbone, de l’humidité, et de la poussière. Si les plus belles pièces du trésor de Toutankhamon sont visibles au Musée égyptien du Caire, la tombe abrite toujours la momie du pharaon lui-même dans un caisson de verre vidé d’oxygène et le sarcophage extérieur en bois doré. Selon le célèbre archéologue égyptien Zâhî Hawwâs, ancien ministre des Antiquités, initiateur du projet en 2009, « le GCI a sauvé la tombe de Toutankhamon. Pourtant, je pense quand même qu’après ce superbe travail, on devrait limiter le nombre de visiteurs », a-t-il assuré. Et d’ajouter : « Si on laisse le tourisme de masse entrer dans la tombe, elle ne durera pas plus de 500 ans », a-t-il mis en garde, avant de prôner un arrêt total des visites pour préserver les lieux. « Nous devons penser à l’avenir », a martelé Hawwâs. Une réplique de la chambre funéraire a été construite non loin de la vallée des Rois, près de la maison de Howard CARTER. C’est là que 63 Février 2019 les visiteurs devraient se rendre selon Hawwâs, « mais beaucoup de gens n’accepteront pas cette idée », regrette l’archéologue. (Dalia Farouq, « Toutankhamon prend un coup de jeune », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 6 février 2019). - - Le secrétaire général du CSA, Dr Mustafa Wazîrî, a visité la zone archéologique de Karnak, afin d’inspecter les travaux de réaménagement effectués par la première mission archéologique sino-égyptienne dans le temple de Montou. Dr Wazîrî a été accompagné du directeur général des antiquités de Karnak, Dr Mustafa al-Saghîr, et du directeur du temple de Montou, Husnî ‘Abd al-Wahâb. En novembre dernier, la mission sinoégyptienne a commencé le nettoyage et le désherbage du secteur du temple. La mission a entrepris également des relevés topographiques, archéologiques et photogrammétriques des blocs dispersés sur le sol du temple depuis sa découverte en 1940 par une mission française. Au cours de la prochaine saison qui débutera en octobre 2019, la mission sino-égyptienne entreprendra la documentation, l’enregistrement et le réassemblage des blocs en question. (Samar al-Naggâr, « Lancement des travaux de documentation, d’enregistrement et de réaménagement du temple de Montou à Louqsor », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 6 février 2019. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie entreprend des travaux de documentation, d’enregistrement et de réaménagement du temple de Montou à Louqsor », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 6 février ; ‘Alâ’ alMinyâwî, « Début des travaux de documentation et de restauration du temple de Montou à Louqsor », Sada al-Balad, 6 février ; Muhammad ‘Abd al-Mu‘tî, « Début des travaux de documentation et de restauration du temple de Montou à Louqsor », al-Ahrâm, 7 février). - - BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 L’Organisme du Canal de Suez a inauguré jeudi le musée du Canal, aménagé dans la villa de l’impératrice Eugénie, située dans le quartier Est de Port-Saïd. Cette inauguration expérimentale s’inscrit dans le cadre des célébrations marquant l’inauguration du creusement du nouveau canal de Suez. Dans un communiqué de presse, le directeur des relations publiques, Sâmih Tu‘ayma, a précisé que le musée regroupe un certain nombre de stèles et de pièces archéologiques exceptionnelles de Ferdinand DE LESSEPS. À cela s’ajoutent des maquettes illustrant le déroulement du projet du canal de Suez, du premier coup de pioche jusqu’à son inauguration et sa nationalisation par l’Égypte. (MENA, « Inauguration expérimentale à PortSaïd du musée de l’Organisme du Canal de Suez », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 6 février 2019). - - Jeudi 7 février 2019 The Upper Egyptian city of Minyâ was in the limelight last weekend, when Minister of Antiquities Khâlid al-‘Inânî, Minister of Tourism Rânyâ al-Mashât, and Governor of Minyâ Qâsim Husayn, as well as ambassadors and 64 Février 2019 cultural attachés from Malta, Greece, the Czech Republic, Spain, Serbia, Ireland, Belarus and China along with their families, flocked to the city to witness the announcement of new discoveries and tour archaeological sites. A carriage promenade along the city’s Nile Corniche was also on the programme. The first discovery to be announced was at the Tûna al-Gabal Necropolis, where hundreds of media figures and officials gathered to witness the first major discovery of 2019. As silence reigned, al-‘Inânî announced the discovery of a collection of Ptolemaic rockhewn burial chambers filled with more than 40 mummies of different sizes and genders, 10 of them belonging to children. it is a very different experience to be face-toface with them in situ,” al-‘Inânî told Al-Ahram Weekly. He said that the newly discovered tombs were part of a familial grave probably for a family from the period’s upper class. The grave consists of a number of burial chambers containing a large number of human mummies of different genders and ages. All are in a good state of conservation, and some are wrapped in linen or decorated with Demotic writing. Some of them still have fragments of coloured cartonnage covers near their feet. “The methods used in burying the mummies inside the tombs vary,” Mustafa Wazîrî, secretary-general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities (SCA), told the Weekly, explaining that some of the mummies had been found inside stone or wooden sarcophagi while others were buried in sand or laid on the floors of the tombs or inside niches. Minister of Tourism (left) and Minister of Antiquities peering into a sarcophagus. Photo courtesy of the Ministry of Antiquities. The discovery was made by a joint mission from the ministry and the Research Centre for Archaeological Studies at Minyâ University. al‘Inânî said that the discovery was the third in Minyâ since he had taken office and the first in 2019. He said that this year would likely witness more discoveries. “Various ambassadors have told me that they always admire mummies in museums, but BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Photo courtesy of the Ministry of Antiquities Ostraca and fragments of papyri had also been found in the tombs, he said, which had helped reveal that they could date to the Ptolemaic, Early Roman or Byzantine periods. Wazîrî said that the mission had started its work in Tûna al-Gabal in February 2018, when it discovered a rock tomb consisting of a corridor leading to sloping stairs that opened onto a rectangular chamber with a number of burials. Another chamber was also located at the western side filled with mummies and large stone sarcophagi. At the northern side there was a third chamber with a collection of stone sarcophagi inside niches. 65 Février 2019 decorated with distinguished wall paintings depicting scenes of Akhenaten with his family worshiping the god Aten. There are images of the royal convoy to the Aten Temple, as well as images of palaces and temples during his reign. “This is the typical burial style used in Tûna al-Gabal, which once was the necropolis of Egypt’s 15th nome during the late New Kingdom and the beginning of the Intermediate Period,” Fathî ‘Awad, director of the Tûna al-Gabal site, said. Scenes showing the distribution of bonuses among government servants are also depicted. He added that the archaeological site had several tombs, among them the tomb of Petosiris, the Isadora tomb, a sacred animal cemetery, a Roman cemetery, and two reliefs of the Pharaoh Akhenaten The delegation visited the tombs of high priest Mery-Re I and overseer of the royal herds and granaries Panehsi, both renowned for their distinguished and well-preserved wall paintings. al-Mashât described the discovery as “a message to the whole world that Egypt has it all in terms of heritage experiences.” The Mery-Re I tomb has a coloured cornice around its entrance with false columns of painted flowers. It is decorated with scenes of offerings and Aten worship, as well as of Akhenaten during a visit to the temple and while leaving his palace. “Such scenes have helped Egyptologists to visualise the appearance of the palaces and temples and the city in general at that time,” ‘Awad told the Weekly. Photo courtesy of the Ministry of Antiquities TELL AL-AMARNA: al-‘Inânî, al-Mashât, Husayn, and the various ambassadors then embarked on a tour to the Tell al-Amarna archaeological site, once the capital of Egypt during the reign of the monotheistic Pharaoh Akhenaten and the centre of a cult to the sun god Aten. The site now houses a collection of 25 rock-hewn tombs of government officials BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Photo courtesy of the Ministry of Antiquities The tomb contains one remarkable scene showing a band of blind musicians, with one of them playing music on an oud (lute) with seven strings and the others clapping to the rhythm. The Panehsi tomb has an intact decorative façade and similar decorations to the ones in the Mery-Re I tomb. However, the tomb’s first courtyard was modified later by Egyptian Christians who used it as a chapel. Two of the tomb’s columns were removed to transform the northern wall into an altar. 66 Février 2019 gazelles and other items to trade. Two beautiful scenes portray Khnumhotep with his family fowling and snaring birds in the marshes in a papyrus skiff. Hunting scene in Tell al-Amarna BENI HASSAN: The delegation’s second stop was at the site of Banî Hasan south of Minyâ where a group of rock-cut tombs are carved into the high limestone cliffs on the east bank of the Nile. It houses 39 tombs dating mostly to the Middle Kingdom, especially the 11th and 12th dynasties. The tombs are reached via a long flight of stone steps up the hillside, from where there is a magnificent view up and down the river valley. The delegation visited the tomb of Khety, the city’s ruler during the 11th Dynasty, and the tomb of provincial governor and military leader Khnumhotep II. The architecture of Khety’s tomb includes a large rectangular cult chapel lying behind a plain façade, with six slender closed lotus pillars in the rear portion. The walls of the tomb are decorated with scenes of fowling and the papyrus harvest, winemaking, ploughing, and processions of colourful cattle and hunting. They also show Khety and his wife presiding over the activities and watching women dancing and playing games. Clappers, dancers and musicians are also shown along with others, including men practising unarmed combat or wrestling. Scenes of battle are also shown. Carriage promenade along the Corniche ATEN MUSEUM: The delegation’s last stop was at the planned Aten Museum overlooking the Nile Corniche and contained in a pyramidshaped building. The museum is still under construction as it was put on hold owing to a lack of funds in 2010 before being resumed in late 2016. Ilhâm Salâh, head of the Museums Sector at the ministry, explained that the first and second phases of the project were completed, but the third and fourth remain. Last November, the German parliament had agreed to grant Egypt 10 million euros to help in the completion of the Museum, which relates the history of the monotheistic pharaoh Akhenaten. The idea of building the museum was launched in 1979 after the signing of a memorandum of understanding between Minyâ and Hildesheim in Germany. Its foundation stone was laid in 2003. The museum grounds, which overlook the Nile, take up 24 feddans. The building itself is made up of five floors and features 16 exhibition halls, a large conference hall, an open-air theatre, a cinema, and a school of museum and restoration studies. The tomb of Khnumhotep II has four polygonal columns in the chapel behind the impressive façade and portico. It contains colourful and lively scenes that make it the most distinctive of the Banî Hasan tombs. Salâh said the museum would contain a large collection related to Akhenaten and his wife Nefertiti unearthed at Amarna City in Minyâ. The most impressive depicts a caravan of Asian traders in striped robes bringing The collection includes statues of Akhenaten and Nefertiti, as well as of his BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 67 Février 2019 father Amenhotep III and his mother Tye. The exhibition will also explore Egypt’s relations with its neighbours in the period by displaying the diplomatic archive from the reign of Akhenaten. A set of talâtât blocks of a standardised size used during Akhenaten’s reign will also be on display. The talâtât were used during the reign of Akhenaten in the construction of temples to the god Aten at Karnak and Amarna, the capital of Egypt during Akhenaten’s reign. CARRIAGE PROMENADE: On the invitation of Minyâ Governor Husayn, as night fell the delegation embarked on a promenade along the Nile Corniche to explore the beauty of a city known as “the pride of Upper Egypt”. The guests were overwhelmed with the warm welcome they received from the city’s inhabitants who waved to them as they passed along the route. Husayn honoured both al‘Inânî and al-Mashât and offered them a city award for their efforts in reviving tourism in Minyâ and highlighting its archaeological treasures. (Nevine El-Aref, “A heritage weekend in Minyâ”, Al-Ahram Weekly, February 7, 2019. Voir également Bassâm Ramadân, « Découverte à Tûna al-Gabal de 3 tombes renfermant 50 momies », al-Masrî alYawm, 2 février ; Nevine El-Aref, “Egypt’s first antiquities discovery of 2019: Mummy-filled burial chambers in Minyâ”, Ahram Online, February 2; Ahmad Mansûr, « Découverte à Tûna al-Gabal de puits funéraires renfermant des momies et des sarcophages ptolémaïques », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 2 février ; Mira Maged, “Egyptian Antiquities Ministry announces new archaeological discovery in Minyâ”, Egypt Independent, February 2; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Première découverte en 2019 réalisée à Tûna al-Gabal », Sada al-Balad, 2 février ; Ranâ Gawhar, « Mise au jour de tombes grecques et romaines contenant 40 momies », al-Ahrâm, 3 février ; “First Discovery of 2019: 50 Mummies Found in Minyâ Tombs”, Egyptian Streets, February 3; Nasma Réda, « Encore une grosse découverte à Minyâ », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 6 février). - Egyptologists and other experts gathered in Italy this week to celebrate a successful campaign to save ancient Egyptian temples from being submerged by a dam project 50 years ago and heard of cultural sites facing similar threats now. The international campaign that saved the temples of Abû Simbil during construction of Aswân High Dam was remembered in Turin as an unprecedented engineering achievement and a turning point that made the preservation of cultural treasures a responsibility that cut across borders. But experts at the Monday event said that with major dam projects underway in Sudan and Ethiopia, the job of protecting Nubian culture is not finished. The director of Turin’s Egyptian Museum, Christian GRECO, noted that the focus in a modernizing Egypt half a century ago was on saving major monuments, largely due to time pressure. Recording and salvaging settlements and domestic artifacts received less emphasis, and many were lost underwater when the dam across the Nile River and its lake reservoir went in, he said. "Unfortunately, we know that the traces, above all of pre-history before mummies, were lost under the waters of Nâsir Lake,’’ GRECO said. "It also needs to be a lesson for the future because there are still great challenges.’’ In 1960, UNESCO issued an international appeal to save the temples of Abû Simbil, an ancient gateway to Pharaonic Egypt, dedicated to Ramses II and his wife Nefertiti. More than 113 countries responded with funds or expertise. Expert marble cutters from Carrara engaged by the Italian construction firm Impregilo, today Salini Impregilo, led cutting of the imposing sandstone temples into 1,070 blocks. The blocks were subsequently moved to higher ground, and the temples reconstructed and positioned as ancient architects intended: - BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 68 Février 2019 allowing the sun to shine on the end wall two days each year. Ana Luiza THOMPSON-FLORES, director of UNESCO’s office in Venice, said it was debated at the time whether the $36 million earmarked for the temples’ preservation would have been better spent on initiatives such as ending poverty. But THOMPSON-FLORES said the global response ultimately "was the birth of the recognition that there were aspects of this world, whether monuments or landscapes, that actually have a recognized outstanding universal value for humanity.’’ (Associated Press, “Effort to save Egypt’s Abû Simbil temples in 1960s recalled”, Ahram Online, February 7, 2019). - - Director General of Archaeological Affairs and Restoration at the museum Târiq Tawfîq said that the statue of King Khafre is made of Schist. The king is depicted in a sitting position and appears to be missing the head. The additional pieces include a statue of the God Osiris, a distinguished collection of statues from the old dynasty and a group of heads of other goddesses of various sizes. (Mustafa Marie, “421 artifacts transferred to Grand Egyptian Museum”, Egypt Today, February 7, 2019. Voir également Samar alNaggâr, « 421 pièces archéologiques transférées du musée de Tahrîr vers le GEM », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 7 février ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Transfert de 421 pièces archéologiques du musée de Tahrîr vers le GEM », Sada al-Balad, 7 février). - - The first Egyptian-Chinese archaeological expedition began its work at the Monto Temple in the Karnak archaeological area of Luxor in order to renovate, develop and document the temple, said Secretary General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities Mustafa Wazîrî. The Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) in alRimâya Square received 421 artifacts from the Egyptian Museum in Tahrîr, most notably a statue of King Khafre and a seated statue of King Amenhotep. During his tour at the temple, Wazîrî said the expedition first began its work in November 2018 by clearing the weeds and debris. According to Wazîrî, a French expedition carried out archaeological excavations at the temple area in 1940 in an attempt to discover the rest of the temple. The mission carried out a survey of the temple area, as well as a photoscan and photogramatic of its blocks, which are scattered on the land of the temple since its discovery, in preparation for recording and documenting these blocks, said Mustafa alSaghîr, director general of Karnak Antiquities and deputy head of Egyptian-Chinese archaeological mission. (“Egyptian-Chinese mission excavates at Luxor’s Monto Temple”, Egypt Independent, February 7, 2019). BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 69 Février 2019 Dimanche 10 février 2019 La mission archéologique égyptienne dirigée par le directeur général des antiquités de Banî Swayf, ‘Umar Zakî, a repris ses travaux de fouilles dans la zone de la pyramide de Meïdoum. Le secrétaire général du CSA, Dr Mustafa Wazîrî, a précisé que ces fouilles visent à mettre au jour l’extension de la nécropole principale de la IIIe dynastie. Enfin, rappelons que les travaux de fouilles entrepris ces dernières années ont déjà conduit à la découverte de la tombe du prince Néfermaât, fils de Snéfrou et petit-fils de Chéops. (Ahmad Mansûr, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie reprend ses fouilles à proximité de la pyramide de Meïdoum à Banî Swayf », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 10 février 2019. Voir également ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Reprise des travaux de fouilles à proximité de la pyramide de Meïdoum à Banî Swayf », Sada al-Balad, 10 février). - - Lundi 11 février 2019 Les fouilles ont révélé la présence d’offrandes funéraires à l’Est du mastaba n° 17. Il s’agit probablement de deux crânes de taureaux, et de trois petits récipients en céramique hermétiquement scellés avec du papyrus. Cette découverte est en cours d’étude. De son côté, le président du département des antiquités pharaoniques, Dr Ayman al‘Ashmâwî, a révélé la découverte de l’enceinte extérieure du mastaba construite en briques crues, en plus d’une inhumation appartenant à une jeune fille âgée de treize ans, en position accroupie. La mission entreprend actuellement la restauration et la consolidation des murs de briques en terre crue. BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Egypt’s embassy in Amsterdam has received a limestone statue from the First Intermediate Period, which was stolen and smuggled out of the country in the 1990s. Sha‘bân ‘Abd al-Gawwâd, supervisor general of the Antiquities Repatriation Department at the Ministry of Antiquities, told Ahram Online that the statue was first noticed by the department in March 2018 when it was put on display at an art exhibition hall in Holland. The department immediately reported the incident to Egypt’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, who contacted the Dutch police and concerned authorities in Holland to confiscate the statue and inform the hall and the owner of the statue that it was a stolen artefact. ‘Abd al-Gawwâd said that the Dutch authorities had handed the statue over to 70 Février 2019 Egypt’s embassy in Amsterdam and it will return to its homeland soon. Mardi 12 février 2019 Le secrétaire général du CSA, Dr Mustafa Wazîrî, a nié catégoriquement les propos attribués récemment au ministre de l’Archéologie, Dr Khâlid al-‘Inânî, concernant la déchéance de nationalité visant tout citoyen égyptien qui n’a pas fréquenté récemment les sites archéologiques. En effet, les réseaux sociaux avaient posté des propos erronés du ministre réclamant « La déchéance de la nationalité égyptienne de tout citoyen n’ayant pas visité le site des pyramides de Gîza, au cours des cinq dernières années ». The recovered statue The statue is carved of limestone, he continued, and was uncovered via illegal excavation carried out in 1990s at the Saqqâra necropolis. It depicts a top official named Nekaw-Ptah in a standing posture and wearing a short wig. It also bears hieroglyphic text showing the name of its owner and the date when he lived. (Nevine El-Aref, “Egyptian officials recover ancient limestone bust that was smuggled to Holland”, Ahram Online, February 11, 2019. Voir également Samar al-Naggâr, « L’Égypte récupère une statue archéologique volée aux Pays-Bas », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 11 février ; Ahmad Mansûr, « L’ambassade d’Égypte en Hollande récupère une statue en calcaire volée », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 11 février ; Islâm ‘Abd al-Ma‘bûd, « Restitution d’une statue en calcaire volée aux Pays-Bas », al-Shurûq, 11 février ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « L’Égypte récupère une statue en calcaire volée aux Pays-Bas », Sada al-Balad, 11 février). - - BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 « De telles déclarations fallacieuses sont incompatibles avec la logique et les prérogatives du ministre de l’Archéologie », conclut Dr Wazîrî. (Ahmad Mansûr, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie : Les propos attribués au ministre de l’Archéologie sont infondés », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 12 février 2019. Voir également Samar al-Naggâr, « La vérité sur la déchéance de la nationalité égyptienne de tout citoyen n’ayant pas visité les pyramides, au cours des cinq dernières années », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 13 février ; Muhammad ‘Abd al-Mu‘tî, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie nie la déchéance de la nationalité égyptienne de tout citoyen n’ayant pas visité les pyramides, au cours des cinq dernières années », al-Ahrâm, 14 février). - - Mercredi 13 février 2019 Excavations carried out by an Egyptian mission at the Tell Abû Sayfî archaeological site in Northern Sinai uncovered the remains of a limestone building that was once a workshop for the construction and repair of boats and vessels during the Ptolemaic and 71 Février 2019 Roman periods. The site is said to have been the location of the Roman fortress of Silla. The remains of the workshop Mustafa Wazîrî, secretary general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, said that the workshop includes two dry dockyards where ships were built or repaired. But regretfully, along the span of time as the workshop lost its function, after the Nile branch passing across the area dried up, some blocks of the workshop were removed to be used in the construction of other buildings. bones and clay pots were found inside the workshop. (Nevine El-Aref, “Ancient workshop for construction of boats uncovered in Sinai”, Ahram Online, February 13, 2019. Voir également Samar al-Naggâr, « Découverte au Nord-Sinaï d’un atelier de réparation des barques datant des époques ptolémaïque et romaine », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 12 février ; Ahmad Mansûr, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie annonce la découverte au NordSinaï d’un atelier de réparation des barques datant de l’époque ptolémaïque », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 12 février ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Mise au jour au Nord-Sinaï d’un atelier de réparation des barques », Sada al-Balad, 12 février ; Sanâ’ Fârûq, « Découverte d’un atelier de réparation des barques à Tell Abû Sayfî », Watanî, 12 février ; “Archaeologists in North Sinai unearth remains of Ptolemaic workshop for ship repairs”, Egypt Independent, February 13; Muhammad ‘Abd al-Mu‘tî, « Mise au jour au Nord-Sinaï d’un atelier de réparation des barques et des navires », al-Ahrâm, 13 février). - - Statues, bustes, peintures, photos, ou encore médailles et mobiliers composent la riche exposition "Caractéristiques d’une ère", dédiée à la famille alide, au palais ‘Â’isha Fahmî (Complexe des arts) à Zamalek. Nails uncovered Cette exposition, qui se tient jusqu’au 27 mars, est la 3e de la série "Trésors de nos musées", lancée il y a 3 ans. 150 chefsd’œuvre, qui ornaient les palais de la famille alide, sont exposés ensemble. « C’est la première fois que le visiteur peut contempler, à travers des œuvres d’une grande valeur artistique, toute une période de l’histoire moderne de l’Égypte », explique Dalia Mustafa, directrice du département central du Centre des arts. Clay pot Remains of wooden beams, shipwrecks, bronze and iron nails of different sizes, fish BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 À travers les pièces présentées dans l’exposition, les organisateurs tentent de jeter la lumière sur une époque qui, selon eux, a été peu étudiée et a parfois été déformée par certains historiens. Pourtant, ce fut une période prospère et féconde de la vie artistique en Égypte. Les grands peintres et sculpteurs européens côtoyaient alors leurs homologues égyptiens. L’exposition traverse 72 Février 2019 aussi 4 modèles de gouvernance, commençant par l’État en passant par la période khédiviale, le sultanat, pour terminer par la royauté. renferme aussi des pièces en marbre, à l’instar de ceux d’Ibrâhîm Pacha et du khédive Ismâ‘îl dont les détails de costume reflètent l’habileté du sculpteur. Néanmoins, la sélection exposée s’ouvre sur un buste en gypse représentatif de Muhammad ‘Alî Pacha, fondateur de la famille alide. Si les bustes occupent une large place dans l’exposition, les statues, malgré leur nombre modeste, sont d’une importance majeure sur le plan historique. Le roi Fu’âd tient dans la main droite la Constitution. Des œuvres réalisées par des sculpteurs européens renommés sont à découvrir, comme ce buste en bronze représentant le khédive Ismâ‘îl (1830-1895), réalisé par Charles CORDIER (1827-1905). Séduit par l’habileté du sculpteur français, le khédive Ismâ‘îl l’a convoqué afin de réaliser ce buste, ainsi que la fameuse statue d’Ibrâhîm Pacha, dressée encore aujourd’hui sur la place de l’Opéra au Caire. Le khédive Ismâ‘îl a lui aussi eu recours à un sculpteur français, Henri-Alfred JACQUEMART. L’artiste a réalisé deux statues représentant Muhammad ‘Alî Pacha à dos de cheval. L’une d’elles se trouve dans l’exposition. L’autre, sculptée en taille réelle, trône sur la place al-Manshiyya, à Alexandrie. « Les souverains de la famille alide, notamment Ismâ‘îl Pacha, appréciaient tous les types d’art et cherchaient à embellir les places des villes avec de belles statues, représentatives des personnages de renom », souligne Yâsir Mungî, professeur de graphique à la faculté des Beaux-arts. C’est lui qui a documenté toutes les pièces de l’exposition. Le buste en bronze du khédive Ismâ‘îl n’est pas l’unique exposé dans les salles du palais ‘Â’isha Fahmî. Il y a aussi celui du roi Fu’âd. Ces bustes, entre autres, ornaient le lobby du Parlement égyptien, jusqu’au déclenchement de la Révolution de 1952. L’exposition BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 La statue en bronze du khédive Ismâ‘îl, sculptée en 1951 par l’Égyptien Mustafa Mitwallî, en est l’exemple. « On croyait que cette statue était sculptée par un Européen. Mais après avoir étudié les documents et les journaux de l’époque, j’ai trouvé que le réalisateur de cette œuvre était un Égyptien », assure Mungî, ajoutant que cette statue, qui est à échelle réelle, devait être dressée sur la place Ismâ‘îliyya (l’actuelle place Tahrîr) et celle du roi Fu’âd devait orner la place ‘Âbidîn. « C’était l’un des projets annoncés par le roi Fârûq pour embellir les places et relier celles d’Ismâ‘îliyya et de ‘Âbidîn. Mais avant les dernières retouches apportées à la statue, la Révolution de 1952 a éclaté et l’œuvre n’a jamais vu la place Ismâ‘îliyya », raconte Mungî. Buste d’Ibrâhîm Pacha Parmi les pièces phare de l’exposition, de grandes statues de marbre et de bronze sculptées commémorant et représentant les souverains et politiciens de l’époque. Que ce soient celles du roi Fârûq, de son père le roi Fu’âd, et de son arrière-grand-père 73 Février 2019 Muhammad ‘Alî pacha, toutes ont été réalisées par le sculpteur égyptien Ahmad Ibrâhîm. Un nombre considérable de peintures est aussi à admirer. Parmi celles-ci, le portrait du prince ‘Umar Tûsûn, petit-fils du wali Muhammad Sa‘îd Pacha, réalisé par le peintre italien Arturo ZANIERI en 1927. Il est expliqué ici comment Tûsûn était fasciné par les antiquités et les monuments, et avait découvert, en 1933, une cité submergée dans le golfe d’Abûqîr, à Alexandrie. On apprend aussi que 10 ans avant sa mort, il a légué sa précieuse bibliothèque de 8 000 volumes aux bibliothèques du musée de la Guerre, du Musée gréco-romain et à celle des municipalités d’Alexandrie. La peinture du prince Ahmad Rif‘at, le fils aîné d’Ibrâhîm Pacha, est aussi à découvrir. « Il était le premier vizir de l’Intérieur et devait succéder à Sa‘îd Pacha sur le trône. Mais il est mort noyé dans le Nil. Cet accident représente jusqu’à aujourd’hui une énigme pour les historiens. Était-ce un simple accident ? Ou un crime pour permettre à Ismâ‘îl de succéder à son oncle sur le trône ? Personne ne le sait », explique Mungî. À travers la peinture du sultan Husayn Kâmil, et les explications l’accompagnant, on apprend comment il a réhabilité de vastes terrains, a fondé la société culturelle et a supervisé, en personne, ses territoires en étant en contact direct avec les paysans. Raison pour laquelle il a été surnommé « le père du paysan ». L’exposition rassemble aussi une collection de 38 médailles qui commémorent des événements survenus en Égypte ou en France. Parmi les pièces exposées, un médaillon frappé à l’occasion de l’Exposition internationale de l’affiche de propagande touristique qui s’est tenue au Caire en 1933. L’effigie du roi Fu’âd orne l’une des faces. Sur l’autre est frappée une scène inspirée de la civilisation de l’ancienne Égypte. Une autre médaille a été réalisée en 1905 à l’occasion de la pose de la première pierre du Musée Boulaq et de la création du Service des antiquités égyptiennes. L’effigie de BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 l’égyptologue MARIETTE est frappée sur l’une de ses faces, alors que sur l’autre, c’est une scène de la découverte du Sérapéum de Saqqâra. Si l’époque de la famille alide se caractérise par un goût artistique raffiné, tourné vers l’art européen, cela ne signifie pas son manque d’intérêt pour l’art islamique. De même, l’exposition y consacre une salle de mobiliers d’influence islamique. Le visiteur peut trouver une table et une chaise qui faisaient partie de la collection du musée de la féministe renommée Huda Sha‘râwî, conservée au Musée d’Art Moderne. Visiter cette exposition, c’est se plonger dans l’histoire de l’Égypte moderne, et découvrir les multiples facettes de l’ère de la famille alide. (Doaa Elhami, « Histoire d’art et de pouvoir », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 13 février 2019). - - Jeudi 14 février 2019 The open-air museum in Akhmîm Decades after it was discovered in parts in 1981 in the vicinity of the Akhmîm Open-Air Museum near the Upper Egyptian city of Suhâg, a colossal statue of Ramses II is now under restoration with the aim of documenting, reassembling, and re-erecting it beside the beautiful colossus of his daughterqueen Merit-Amun. In the museum a dozen restorers and other workers are busy at work brushing the dust of time from the scattered parts of the colossus of Ramses II as another group consolidates 74 Février 2019 and reassembles it with a view to re-erecting it in its original location inside the temple. Beside Merit-Amun’s colossus a group of workers are erecting the mounting that will eventually hold the statue after it has been lifted up. “The restoration of the colossus is within the framework of the Ministry of Antiquities’ efforts to promote the Suhâg governorate’s archaeological sites and make the area more tourist friendly as well as to continue its goal of preserving and conserving the area’s monuments,” Mustafa Wazîrî, secretarygeneral of the Supreme Council of Antiquities (SCA), told Al-Ahram Weekly. He said that a new visitor centre had been established, while a route with signs, maps and billboards containing information about every monument on the site was under development. A new lighting system is to be installed to make the site accessible at night. “All the work will be officially inaugurated next month after the completion of the restoration,” Wazîrî said. Akhmîm lies on the east bank of the Nile about 100km north of Luxor. As well as being the hub of ancient Egypt’s weaving industry, Akhmîm was once the capital of the ninth nome of Upper Egypt and the religious centre of the fertility god Min. (…) Although many of the ancient buildings in Akhmîm were dismantled to be used in the construction of other monuments at a later period, many of these later buildings still exist in their original locations. Among them are a Graeco-Roman temple and many fragments of statues of Ramses II and a beautiful limestone colossus of Merit-Amun, now re-erected in the open-air museum. The statue is 11 metres tall and depicts Merit-Amun wearing a close-fitting pleated robe and crowned with a modius decorated with serpents and the double feathers of a wife of the god Amun. The museum also houses a beautiful statue of the Roman goddess of love Venus and a collection of stelae and architectural elements from the surrounding structures. BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 The remains of the colossal statue of Ramses II, originally thought to have been about 15 metres tall and weighing 45 tons, were discovered in an area adjacent to the museum. The lower part of the limestone statue is seated on a throne, to the right and left of which are figures of two of the Pharaoh’s daughters and the princess-queens Merit-Amun and Bint-Anath. The statue and throne are carved from a single block of stone and stand on a limestone base covered with carved hieroglyphic texts. The base also carries a register of captured enemies surmounting rings that bear the name of their home cities. The remains of colours are still visible. A colossal face that matches the base of the statue showing the Pharaoh wearing a false beard has also been found. Early studies have revealed that the statue might have stood in front of the entrance pylon to a great temple of Ramses II at Akhmîm, suggesting the existence of a second statue on the other side, which could still be buried in the sand. The first traces of the discovery were made in early 1981 when the local Akhmîm council decided to build a post office 50 metres from the Museum. An archaeological inspection of 75 Février 2019 the site revealed the base of a statue inscribed with the names and titles of Ramses II and surrounded by mud brick walls. Also unearthed were votive stelae that had been set up in the temple, statues of individuals who may have worked there, and royal crowns carved in granite. However, a large modern cemetery obstructed any further exploration, and the excavations were put on hold. The site was backfilled with sand and the statue base was packed with debris for protection. The excavations were later resumed in January 2003, when the rest of the statue was found. (Nevine El-Aref, “Colossus to be restored”, AlAhram Weekly, February 14, 2019. Voir également Samar al-Naggâr, « Lancement des travaux de restauration du colosse de Ramsès II à Suhâg », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 7 février ; Mustafa Marie, “Min. of Antiquities starts restoring Ramses II statue in Akhmîm”, Egypt Today, February 7; Ahmad Mansûr, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie commence les travaux de restauration du colosse de Ramsès II à Suhâg », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 7 février ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Lancement des travaux de restauration du colosse de Ramsès II à Suhâg », Sada al-Balad, 7 février). - annoncé la formation d’une commission archéologique présidée par Marwa Sayyid Ismâ‘îl, afin d’expertiser les pièces saisies. Ces pièces ont été confisquées conformément à la loi 117/1983 sur la protection des antiquités. Il s’agit d’un casque militaire, de trois protège-bras et jambières et d’une plaque métallique composée de deux parties reliées par des anneaux. Les pièces sont décorées de motifs géométriques, animaux et végétaux. (Ahmad Mansûr, « Saisie au port d’Alexandrie d’une armure d’époque islamique », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 14 février 2019. Voir également ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Saisie au port d’Alexandrie d’une armure d’époque islamique », Sada al-Balad, 14 février). - - - Archaeologist Zâhî Hawwâs stressed the difficulty of retrieving Egyptian monuments from various museums all over the world since they were transferred under the 50-precent law or the Antiquities Protection Act. L’Unité archéologique rattachée au port d’Alexandrie a déjoué une tentative d’exportation illicite de cinq pièces d’une armure d’époque islamique. Le président de l’administration centrale des unités archéologiques portuaires, Hamdî Humâm, a BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 The Antiquities Protection Act permitted foreign missions to take their share of the excavations. Hawwâs pointed out that there is currently an international outcry that calls for retrieving artifacts. French President Emmanuel MACRON said France occupied some African countries 76 Février 2019 and looted their artifacts and it is a must to return the looted items to their original countries. Meanwhile, Greece is fighting to return its artifacts from London and China is demanding Japan and other countries to return its looted artifacts. The veteran archaeologist announced that Egypt must demand its right to retrieve its looted artifacts, pointing out that he is currently forming a national team consisting of public figures to demand Egypt’s right to retrieving its artifacts. Hawwâs stated that Egypt must demand the retrieval of the five most significant pieces found in the world’s museums, namely the Rosetta Stone which was seized by the French and the head of Nefertiti that Hawwâs asserted he collected evidence proving it was stolen. Hawwâs claimed that he demanded the head of Berlin Museum to retrieve the stolen artefact; however, the revolution of Jan. 25, 2011 postponed the retrieving process. Hawwâs further stated that the third most significant piece is the Planetarium located in the Louvre Museum, which was stolen by a French thief. Moreover, Hawwâs claimed that the two additional artifacts were legally transferred outside Egypt, but Egypt must demand their retrieval. The two pieces are the statue of the architect of the Great Pyramid that is located in Germany and the statue of Khafre pyramid manager that is located in the USA. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « Zâhî Hawwâs prépare un dossier détaillé en vue de la restitution du buste de Néfertiti », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 13 février). - - The ancient Egyptian Temple of Isnâ’s western mud-brick wall partially collapsed on Wednesday due to leaking water, but caused no losses in the archaeological area in South Luxor, said Ayman al-‘Ashmâwî, head of the Ancient Egyptian Antiquities Sector. al-‘Ashmâwî clarified that the wall overlooked a slum area consisting of a very poor sewage system that led to the water leakage inside the wall before its collapse. He asserted that the Ministry of Antiquities assigned the project sector to renovate the damaged wall. al-‘Ashmâwî pointed out that the Ministry of Antiquities built the wall in 1993 to protect the temple from the continued encroachment of new urban buildings into the archaeological area. (“Temple of Isnâ western wall collapses due to water leak”, Egypt Independent, February 14, 2019. Voir également Samar alNaggâr, « Effondrement partiel de l’enceinte Ouest du temple d’Isnâ », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 13 février ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie : Effondrement partiel de l’enceinte du temple d’Isnâ », Sada al-Balad, 13 février). - - Vendredi 15 février 2019 Hawwâs further stated that the world perceived Egypt in the past as a country that does not provide museums for its priceless artifacts and cannot protect its ancient heritage. However, the veteran archaeologist affirmed that Egypt currently holds numerous museums, including the Grand Egyptian Museum that is considered the biggest museum in the world. (Mustafa Marie, “Zâhî Hawwâs demands retrieval of Egypt’s looted artifacts”, Egypt Today, February 14, 2019. BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Minister of Antiquities Khâlid al-‘Inânî, the Minister of Tourism Rânyâ al-Mashât, Minister of Youth and Sports Ashraf Subhî and Mustafa 77 Février 2019 Wazîrî, the secretary-general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities on Friday launched the Pyramids Marathon in an attempt to promote sports tourism. returning a prized gilded coffin of an ancient high priest to Egypt. The marathon took place at the worldfamous Gîza Plateau, with an estimated 4,000 competitors from 75 different countries. The running event offers 42km, 21km and 10km distances. Image courtesy of the MET museum. Runners were very keen to capture selfies with al-‘Inânî while running along the route. The ministers awarded medals to the winners. (Nevine El-Aref, “Egypt’s antiquities minister, sports minister, tourism minister open Gîza pyramids marathon”, Ahram Online, February 15, 2019. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie : La participation des ministres et des députés au marathon des pyramides confirme l’intérêt accordé par l’État à sa jeunesse », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 15 février ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie participe au marathon des pyramides », Sada al-Balad, 15 février ; “Ministers of Antiquities, Tourism and sports running in Pyramids marathon”, Egypt Today, February 15; Sanâ’ Fârûq, « Les ministres de l’Archéologie, du Tourisme et de la Jeunesse participent au marathon des pyramides », Watanî, 15 février). - The MET issued a press released on February 15 where it announced that Nedjemankh’s funerary object, discovered to have been looted from Egypt in 2011, was to be handed over to the Egyptian government. Having been made aware of the looted status of the coffin, the museum stated that it has been ”fully cooperative with the investigation of the [Manhattan] District Attorney’s Office.” - Dimanche 17 février 2019 According to the Metropolitan museum of art — New York’s highly reputed and popular tourist site — has announced that it will be BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Image courtesy of the MET museum. The gilded coffin was purchased by the MET in July 2017; it cost almost $US 4 million. 78 Février 2019 Museum officials realized that documentation pertaining to the coffin’s ownership and history were forged, including a forged export license dating to 1971. “After we learned that the Museum was a victim of fraud and unwittingly participated in the illegal trade of antiquities, we worked with the DA’s office for its return to Egypt. The nation of Egypt has been a strong partner of the Museum’s for over a century,” stated Met’s President and CEO, Daniel WEISS. “We extend our apologies to Dr Khâlid al‘Inânî, Minister of Antiquities, and the people of Egypt, and our appreciation to District Attorney Cy Vance, Jr.’s office for its investigation, and now commit ourselves to identifying how justice can be served, and how we can help to deter future offenses against cultural property,” added WEISS. On his part, Manhattan District Attorney Cy Vance stated that museums and collection keepers had a responsibility in terms of scrutinizing the provenance of their acquisitions. In the MET’s press release, he also reiterated the coffin’s return to Egypt as well as the Antiquities Trafficking Unit’s focus on stopping the looting and trade of historic artifacts. program — to understand what more can be done to prevent such events in the future.” The emerging knowledge of the artefact’s theft, as well as the decision for its repatriation, resulted in the cancellation of an exhibition called ‘Nedjemankh and His Gilded Coffin’ which was meant to highlight the priest’s role in ancient Egypt. Out of the seventy objects that are displayed, the coffin was the exhibition’s centrepiece. As such, this event has spurred the MET to revise its acquisitions program. The MET is a home to an important collection of Egyptian artifacts and structures, namely the temple of Dandûr. Egypt has been embroiled in a battle to return its most valuable artifacts from various institutions and private collections from around the world. Many were stolen during the looting of Egyptian museum in the wake of the 2011 revolution events in Tahrîr; other looted items had been illegally excavated and transported out of the country during the 20th century. The metropolitan museum in NYC The Metropolitan Museum of Art announced today it will review and revise its acquisitions process. Max HOLLEIN, Director of The Met, said, “Our museum must be a leader among our peers in the respect for cultural property and in the rigor and transparency of the policy and practices that we follow. We will learn from this event — specifically I will be leading a review of our acquisitions BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 There are a few iconic and priceless artifacts, which Egypt insists on repatriating: the Dandara zodiac (Louvre), the Nefertiti bust (Berlin), the statue of the vizier Hemiunu (Hildesheim) and the Rosetta stone (British museum). The debate regarding the return of looted artifacts to their home countries has not just been popular in Egypt; it has recently resurfaced between previously-colonised countries and previous-colonizsers. At the end of 2018, French president MACRON issued a report in which he recommended that African art and artifacts held in French cultural institutions should be 79 Février 2019 returned to their original countries in Africa. (“MET to Repatriate Stolen Coffin to Egypt”, Egyptian Streets, February 17, 2019. Voir également ‘Abdallah Idrîs, « Le Metropolitan Museum présente ses excuses à l’Égypte et lui restitue une pièce archéologique volée », alWatan, 16 février ; Samar al-Naggâr, « Les États-Unis restituent le sarcophage de Nedjemankh », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 16 février ; Ahmad Mansûr, « Restitution du sarcophage doré de Nedjemankh », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 16 février ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Restitution d’un sarcophage doré des États-Unis, 48 ans après avoir été volé », Sada al-Balad, 16 février ; Nevine El-Aref, “Egypt recovers gilded coffin from Metropolitan Museum”, Ahram Online, February 17; “Metropolitan Museum to return stolen artefact to Egypt”, Egypt Independent, February 18; Muhammad ‘Abd al-Mu‘tî, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie récupère un sarcophage doré des États-Unis », al-Ahrâm, 18 février ; Nevine El-Aref, “Coffin returns from New York”, Al-Ahram Weekly, February 21). - - Le secrétaire général du CSA, Dr Mustafa Wazîrî, a procédé à de nouvelles titularisations de salariés en CDD du ministère de l’Archéologie. Cette quatrième fournée de cédéisation concerne 2 544 contractuels, répartis dans tous les départements. Wazîrî a souligné que ces mesures initiées depuis 2006 visent à préserver les intérêts du personnel, conformément à la législation et à la réglementation du travail. Le dossier de titularisation constitue l’une des priorités de son ministère. (Samar al-Naggâr, « Titularisation d’une quatrième fournée de contractuels du ministère de l’Archéologie », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 17 février 2019. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « Cédéisation d’une quatrième fournée de contractuels du ministère de l’Archéologie », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 17 février ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Titularisation de la quatrième fournée de contractuels », Sada al-Balad, 17 février ; Muhammad ‘Abd alMu‘tî, « Cédéisation d’une quatrième fournée de contractuels du ministère de l’Archéologie », al-Ahrâm, 18 février). BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 - - A man was arrested over illegally digging under his house in Gîza in search for artifacts, as part of Tourism police’s crackdown against illicit trade in antiquities. The police were notified that a house owner named Husnî Z. had excavated under his house located near Gîza necropolis; in the house, the police found four pieces that are suspected to be antiquities. The man admitted the illegal act and the forces found covered drills. The seizures were: a 35 cm-statute for a standing person with head missing, a 17*23 cm-stone tableau carrying embossed inscriptions for a man and a woman, a smallsized statute with a broken head and a large scarab. (“More arrests as police crackdown illegal excavation in Gîza”, Egypt Today, February 17, 2019). - - Minister of Antiquities Khâlid al-‘Inânî is set to visit Hilwân University on Feb. 18 at 10 a.m. The minister of antiquities will hold a symposium entitled "Egyptian Antiquities: Between Modern Discoveries and Major Projects" at Hasan Husnî Hall in the university. During the symposium, the minister will discuss the most significant archaeological discoveries and the role of the government in the development of historical areas and providing the appropriate funds for their advancement to encourage tourism and restore the civilized and aesthetic face of Egypt. Deans of the faculties, heads of departments and students from different 80 Février 2019 faculties will participate in the discussion. (Mustafa Marie, “Min. of antiquities to hold symposium in Hilwân University Feb. 18”, Egypt Today, February 17, 2019. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie donne une conférence à l’université de Hilwân sur les récentes découvertes archéologiques », al-Yawm alSâbi‘, 17 février ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « al-‘Inânî expose les récentes découvertes archéologiques lors d’une conférence à l’université de Hilwân », Sada al-Balad, 18 février). - - General Supervisor of the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) Târiq Tawfîq affirmed that the artifacts set to be displayed on the “Kings’ Great Staircase” will be transferred to the museum after completion of the construction works. Tawfîq further stated that 24 pieces have so far been transferred from a total of 87 statues set to be displayed on the “Kings’ Great Staircase”, which will be placed in the lobby of the museum. The remaining artifacts are currently located in the Egyptian Museum in Tahrîr and will be transferred to the GEM in the upcoming period, affirmed Tawfîq. The “Great Staircase” located in the GEM will focus on portraying the kings and gods of the Ancient Egyptian era. This part of the museum will be divided into four sections; the first section will focus on portraying how the King/God was sculptured during the ancient Egyptian Era. The sizes of the statues will be of various sizes, but all will be sculptured using the three dimensions effect. BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 The second section will be portraying how the kings performed religious practices, and how they offered tributes to their gods. Moreover, the third section of the “Great Staircase” will illustrate the relationship between the kings and their gods, using three and four-dimensional sculptures. Last but not least, the fourth section of the “Great Staircase” will illustrate the process that took place after the death of the kings, and how their bodies were reserved and mummified. The royal pyramids in Gîza will be visible outside a panoramic window in the upper part of the “Great Staircase” to reflect the image of eternal royalty. (Mustafa Marie, “GEM’s Great Staircase to illustrate life of Ancient Egyptian gods/kings”, Egypt Today, February 17, 2019. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « Le superviseur du GEM : 24 statues royales sur un total de 87 ont été transférées au GEM », alYawm al-Sâbi‘, 17 février). - - Lundi 18 février 2019 Pour la première fois, une mission archéologique brésilienne entreprend des travaux de fouilles, de restauration et de sauvegarde de la tombe d’Amenemhat (TT123) située dans la vallée des Rois. Cette mission est présidée par Dr José Roberto BENIGNI et d’autres chercheurs de l’Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG). Ce projet est mis en place en collaboration avec des archéologues égyptiens et des chercheurs de l’Universidad Nacional de Cordoba (UNC) en Argentine. (Marie Fikrî, « Une mission archéologique brésilienne entreprend la restauration et la sauvegarde de la tombe d’Amenemhat », Watanî, 18 février 2019). 81 Février 2019 - - Mercredi 20 février 2019 The security services, in coordination with the police of Tourism and Antiquities, seized an employee at the Directorate of Youth and Sports holding 65 antiquities inside his house. Among the seized artifacts were antiquities dating back to 11th Dynasty and coins dating back to the Greek-Byzantine era. The pieces were confiscated while the man was trying to sell them to an undercover officer in the Tourism and Antiquities Police Department, who played the role of a smuggler. Major General Muhammad al-Ghûl, director of the General Directorate of Tourism and Antiquities Police, received a notification from the director of the Tourism and Antiquities Police Department in Minyâ, stating that a confidential information had been received stating that a 38 year old man in Minyâ was trying to sell rare artifacts for LE 10 million. Au cours de ses 100 ans d’existence, l’American University in Cairo (AUC) n’a pas cessé d’enrichir ses collections de la Rare Books and Special Collections Digital Library (RBSCL) et son département de photos, qui comptent aujourd’hui plus de 15 000 livres rares et près de 500 000 photos anciennes. Parmi les plus importants documents figurent ceux du grand spécialiste anglais d’architecture islamique Keppel Archibald Cameron CRESWELL, les archives du grand architecte contemporain Hasan Fathî et celles du photographe arménien de renom VAN LEO. C’est l’AUC qui a proposé à K.A.C. CRESWELL, dans les années 1950, d’accueillir ses livres, surtout qu’il n’avait pas d’héritier. CRESWELL a accepté en lui léguant sa bibliothèque de plus de 3 000 volumes, en plus de sa collection d’environ 13 000 photos, plans et dessins. Cette collection particulière se trouve dans les armoires dédiées à CRESWELL au siège de l’AUC à al-Tagamu’. When the man opened his door to receive the money, he was surprised by undercover police officers who were able to arrest the defendant and seize a statue of King Antuf VII dating back to the 11th Dynasty, and numerous other artifacts in his possession. The artifacts were defendant was held in investigation. (Mustafa confiscated by police in February 20, 2019). - confiscated and the detention for further Marie, “65 artifacts Minyâ”, Egypt Today, - La vedette Chéwikar vue par VAN LEO Hasan Fathî dans sa maison à Darb al-Labbâna BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Né le 13 septembre 1879 à Londres, CRESWELL fait des études de polytechnique. Intéressé, depuis son enfance, par les bâtiments de l’Orient, il se lance plus tard dans des études d’architecture orientale. En 1913, il publie un article dans le Burlington Magazine et, peu après, donne un article à la 82 Février 2019 Royal Asiatic Society, qui est bien accueilli. Les deux portent sur l’architecture des dômes perses. Son intérêt pour l’architecture islamique s’accroît davantage. Lors de la Première Guerre mondiale, il est nommé officier dans le Royal Flying Corps en Égypte, où il trouve une bonne occasion de satisfaire sa passion pour l’architecture islamique. CRESWELL décide de concrétiser cette passion en rédigeant un livre sur l’histoire de l’architecture islamique en Égypte. Mais ce n’est pas une entreprise simple. Il ne termine ce projet que des années plus tard, et ce n’est qu’en 1969 qu’il publie 5 volumes, avec des descriptions détaillées de monuments et des plans, dessins et photographies de presque toute l’architecture islamique, comme les minarets, les dômes et les madrasas. Cet ouvrage de grande envergure est divisé en deux : Early Islamic Architecture (les débuts de l’architecture islamique) et The Muslim Architecture of Egypt (l’architecture islamique d’Égypte). « Il a voulu faire non seulement une analyse architecturale, mais aussi une chronologie du Caire à partir de la conquête arabe de l’Égypte à travers ses monuments islamiques, comme la mosquée de ‘Amr Ibn al-’Âss et celle d’al-Azhar et les différents styles de l’architecture islamique », explique ‘Ulâ Sayf, conservatrice de la photothèque et de la cinémathèque de l’AUC. participe activement à l’enregistrement et à la préservation du mur et des portes du Caire médiéval du XIIe siècle. En juin 1973, CRESWELL, suite à des problèmes de santé, retourne en Angleterre. Il décède le 8 avril 1974. « CRESWELL était un perfectionniste, il s’intéressait beaucoup aux détails. Ceci est bien clair dans sa collection riche de photos, où il a essayé de documenter presque tous les monuments islamiques de son temps pour pouvoir les étudier et faire des comparaisons avec l’architecture dans d’autres régions du monde. Il allait plus loin pour avoir une vue plus omnisciente de l’architecture islamique en Égypte, c’est la valeur de l’œuvre de CRESWELL », souligne Sayf. Avant d’ajouter que dernièrement, près de 1 000 photos ont été trouvées dans le Victoria and Albert Museum. À noter qu’il existe d’autres parties de la collection de CRESWELL à Ashmolean Museum à Oxford, à Harvard University et à Villa I Tatti en Florence. « On a conclu un accord avec toutes les institutions où se trouvent des photos de CRESWELL, afin de les mettre en ligne pour qu’elles soient accessibles à tout le monde », souligne-t-elle. CRESWELL est nommé conférencier à l’Université Fu’âd (aujourd’hui l’Université du Caire) en 1931 et, trois ans plus tard, professeur d’art islamique et d’architecture. Il occupe ce poste jusqu’à 1951. En 1956, lors de la crise de Suez, le gouvernement lui conseille, comme à tous les Britanniques, de quitter le pays. Mais le président de l’AUC à cette époque propose au président égyptien Gamâl ‘Abd al-Nâsir de garder CRESWELL en Égypte pour qu’il puisse continuer son œuvre sur l’architecture islamique. En 1956, il est nommé professeur distingué d’art et d’architecture islamiques à l’AUC. Déjà en 1939, il devient membre du Conseil supérieur de la conservation des monuments arabes et occupe ce poste pendant 12 ans. Il BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 La mosquée Umm al-Sultan Sha’bân photographiée par CRESWELL L’AUC abrite par ailleurs toute l’œuvre du grand architecte égyptien Hasan Fathî. 83 Février 2019 Habitant dans une maison de style mamelouk à Darb al-Labbâna, dans le quartier de la Citadelle, appelée « Maison de l’architecture égyptienne » et ayant comme voisin et ami l’Aga Khan, il confie à celui-ci le soin de gérer toute sa bibliothèque qui renfermait livres, documents, photos, dessins, plans et maquettes. Ainsi à son décès en 1989, l’Aga Khan prend en charge les archives de Fathî, tout en les laissant à leur place. Mais le tremblement de terre qui secoue l’Égypte en 1992 endommage gravement « la maison de l’architecture égyptienne », et il faut l’évacuer pour la restaurer. Les membres de la fondation de l’Aga Khan veulent transporter les œuvres de Fathî à son siège à Genève, mais comme c’est une quantité énorme à transporter, l’idée est abandonnée. Les disciples de Hasan Fathî et ses amis, préférant que ses œuvres restent en Égypte, se mettent d’accord pour les offrir à l’AUC, pour qu’elles soient bien préservées. « C’était un bon choix, les locaux ont pu accueillir cette très grande collection et elle est accessible à tout le monde. L’AUC a pris toute la collection de Fathî et a réussi à obtenir un fonds via le National Endownement for Humanity (NEH) pour pouvoir les classifier et les mettre dans des boîtes d’archives spéciales, afin de faciliter leur consultation à tout chercheur », explique Sayf. Elle ajoute que l’université a organisé plusieurs expositions sur les possessions et travaux de Hasan Fathî et qu’actuellement, la bibliothèque est accessible à tous les chercheurs en architecture ainsi qu’aux amateurs du patrimoine de Hasan Fathî, qui était l’un des architectes les plus marquants de sa génération. Fathî est, en effet, connu pour avoir démontré qu’il est possible de construire de beaux bâtiments avec un style architectural particulier, notamment pour les sociétés modestes. Le nouveau village de Qurna à Louqsor est la grande œuvre de Fathî, dans laquelle il a mis toute son expérience, son esprit et ses inspirations nubiennes. Né en 1900, Fathî est diplômé de l’École polytechnique de l’Université du Caire en 1926. Il cherche à s’ancrer dans les traditions BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 autochtones en utilisant des techniques de construction locales et ancestrales, qu’il adapte aux contraintes modernes et aux besoins de la vie contemporaine. Il dessine son premier bâtiment en brique de terre en 1930. Au début de sa carrière, il travaille dans le département des bâtiments scolaires au ministère de l’Éducation. Il découvre la beauté de l’architecture nubienne et son caractère particulier. A partir de 1946, il travaille comme professeur des beaux-arts à l’Université du Caire. En 1953, il devint directeur du département d’architecture de la faculté des Beaux-arts du Caire. En 1969, avec la publication de son premier livre L’Architecture des pauvres, son travail attire l’attention à l’échelle internationale. Il raconte son expérience architecturale à Qurna. Hasan Fathî travaille de près avec les gens pour adapter ses dessins à leurs besoins. Il leur enseigne comment travailler avec les briques de boue, supervise la construction des bâtiments et encourage la reprise de techniques décoratives anciennes. Quant à la collection des photos du photographe égypto-arménien VAN LEO, elle est le joyau de la photothèque de l’AUC. Elle renferme aussi son appareil photo et les équipements de son studio. Dernier témoin d’une Égypte cosmopolite, VAN LEO est né en 1921 en Turquie, de parents arméniens, sous le nom de Levon BOYADIJIAN. Il s’installe en Égypte en 1924, où il réussit, quelques années plus tard, à se faire un nom comme meilleur portraitiste de son époque. Quand il termine sa scolarité en 1939, VAN LEO s’inscrit à l’AUC, mais déserte rapidement les cours et offre ses services au Studio Venus de la rue Qasr al-Nil. Talentueux, il ouvre, en 1941, son propre studio, lorsque son père lui permet de transformer la salle à manger familiale en studio et la salle de bain en chambre noire. Les stars du cinéma, les intellectuelles et l’élite ne tardent pas à connaître le talent de VAN LEO et se précipitent vers son studio pour avoir de beaux portraits. On trouve dans ses archives des portraits de l’écrivain Taha Husayn, du musicien Muhammad ‘Abd al- 84 Février 2019 Wahâb, de la vedette Fâtin Hamâma ou des acteurs Rushdî Abâza et Omar Sharif. VAN LEO choisissait très soigneusement ses sujets. Surréaliste qu’il soit, il s’intéressait surtout aux effets artistiques, aux jeux de lumière et aux retouches. Très souvent, il photographiait des personnes gratuitement, parce qu’elles avaient un visage intéressant ou particulier. Il s’attachait à photographier des lieux communs, des bâtiments et les gens de la rue. « Il retrace à travers ses photos la chronologie de la société égyptienne au cours de plus de 50 ans. Les années avant la Révolution de 1952 ont été décisives dans l’histoire de l’Égypte, ce qui lui a permis de recenser les changements majeurs qui ont eu lieu dans la société, que ce soit sur le plan vestimentaire, architectural ou autre », indique la conservatrice de la photothèque à l’AUC. En 1998, son état de santé empirant, VAN LEO fait don de pratiquement tout ce qu’il possède, même de son studio, à l’AUC. « Avec la mort de VAN LEO en 2002, l’Égypte a perdu l’un des pionniers de la photographie des portraits », conclut Sayf. (Dalia Farouq, « Les trésors historiques de l’AUC », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 20 février 2019). - Opponents of the demolition said the structure was a monument registered on Egypt’s Antiquities List of Islamic, Coptic and Jewish Heritage and that it had been neglected before it was demolished. They said that the demolition was the first step towards the demolition of other “undesirable edifices” in al-Mu‘izz Street in Islamic Cairo with a view to replacing them with new ones likely to bring in more money. The al-‘Anbariyyîn Wakâla should have been restored and turned into a museum of perfumes instead of being demolished, the activists said. Supporters of the demolition said the Wakâla was not registered as a monument on the country’s Heritage List and that the Ministry of Antiquities had not been involved with the building or its demolition. - Jeudi 21 février 2019 “The edifice was not a complete building as some people believe, but was a set of ruins,” Muhammad ‘Abd al-‘Azîz, supervisor of the Historic Cairo Rehabilitation Project, told Al-Ahram Weekly. He said it was a roofless and destroyed structure with the exception of its decaying façade. The al-‘Anbariyyîn Wakâla in Islamic Cairo The demolition of the ruins of the al‘Anbariyyîn Wakâla (market) in Islamic Cairo created controversy among heritage professionals and activists last week even though the remains represented a threat to the lives of users and were not in fact the original structure. BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 According to the Arab writer al-Maqrîzî in his book Kitâb al-khitat al-maqrîziyya, the nowdemolished ruins were once the site of the area’s perfume market and were originally the al-Mauna Prison during the Fatimid period before being turned into a market for perfumes under the later Mamelukes. However, the market was largely demolished when trading in perfumes ended. The building that has now been demolished was damaged over time, including in 2005 85 Février 2019 and 2017 when it was badly damaged by fire with the exception of its decayed façade. mosques, madrasas, fountains,” he said. ‘Abd al-‘Azîz said that the Permanent Committee for Islamic, Coptic and Jewish Antiquities had three times refused to register the building on the relevant Heritage List in 2004, 2015 and 2016 because it had lost its outstanding universal value and retained nothing of its archaeological or decorative elements or original plan and structure. “It was once a centre of the Islamic world, reaching its golden age in the 14th century, and modern regulations prohibit the construction of any building that is not is keeping with the Old City’s fabric,” he added. (Nevine El-Aref, “Controversy in Islamic Cairo”, Al-Ahram Weekly, February 21, 2019. Voir également ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie : la wakâla al-‘Anbariyyîn n’est pas classée sur la liste du patrimoine », Sada al-Balad, 11 février ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Monica Hanna : La destruction de wakâla al‘Anbariyyîn est une atteinte à l’identité historique de la région », Sada al-Balad, 12 février ; Samar al-Naggâr, « Les habitants de la rue al-Mu‘izz en colère à cause de la destruction de wakâla al-‘Anbariyyîn », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 12 février). These are the criteria usually used for inscription under the UNESCO Venice Charter. “Ruins are not a monument,” ‘Abd al-‘Azîz said. “We have to differentiate between a market which is an open place that sells only one type of goods with several small shops or bazaars selling their goods on tables in the street and a wakâla which is a complete building selling various kinds of goods and having a dormitory for traders.” - hammâms and - The al-‘Anbariyyîn Wakâla had in fact vanished like others established during the mediaeval period, he added, in the same way that the Sûq al-Silâh (the weapons market) and the Sûq al-sanâdiqiyyin (the boxes market) did not exist anymore aside from the areas to which they have given their names. The Sûq al-Nahhâsîn (the copper market) still exists in the area of al-Husayn, he said. Those who fear that the site of the nowdemolished building could be transformed into a residential building or mall were “living in a dreamland,” ‘Abd al-‘Azîz said. “Historic Cairo is registered on the UNESCO World Heritage List as one of the world’s oldest Islamic cities, with its famous BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Source: Jewish Community in Cairo Egypt’s government began removing slums in the eastern part of the 1200-year-old Jewish cemeteries in Cairo’s al-Basâtîn, which is the second oldest Jewish cemeteries in the world, according to a statement by the Jewish Community in Cairo. “Today the Egyptian government started to clean and to remove the slums in the east part of al-Basâtîn cemetery. Egypt is defending her Jewish heritage. Thousands of souls will sleep in peace tonight. Thanks to all how contributed to this achievement,” the statement said. The cemetery has witnessed periods of intense neglect and degradation, from 86 Février 2019 countless stolen marble slabs that cover the graves to general abuse by poor Egyptian settlers who built slums. Head of the Jewish Community in Egypt Magda Hârûn previously told Egypt Today that she has called on the government several times to build a fence around the cemeteries. Deputy of Cairo Governor for the southern region Ahmad Fu’âd said that the government also removed garbage in the cemeteries after getting complaints from citizens. Carmen WEINSTEIN, former head of the Jewish community in Egypt, was buried in the al-Basâtîn cemetery which she herself worked to save since 1978, as it is the only Jewish cemetery left in Cairo and is the largest in Egypt. Egypt’s Jewish community shrank over the years due to the time of hostilities between the country and Israel. Estimates say that since the creation of the state of Israel in 1948, about 65,000 Jews left Egypt — most of them traveling to West or Israel. (“Egypt Cleans and Removes Slums Near Oldest Jewish Cemeteries”, Egyptian Streets, February 21, 2019). - - The Egyptian Embassy in Canberra, Australia, received the fourth and final part of the ancient painting entitled "Szen Nefertum", which was illegally stolen from Egypt. General Supervisor of the General Department of Antiquities Sha‘bân ‘Abd alGawwâd affirmed that this part of the painting is the fourth and last part and that Egypt was able to recover three other parts from Switzerland in 2017. BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 ‘Abd al-Gawwâd noted that the fourth part was exhibited at the “Macquarie Museum” and was bought by the museum’s management in 1995. Martin BOMMS, director of the museum, expressed his readiness to return the ancient painting to Egypt immediately after he learned that it was stolen and smuggled from Egypt illegally. The ancient painting was handed over to the Egyptian Embassy in Canberra, following the extensive efforts exerted by the Egyptian Ministry of Antiquities and Ministry of Foreign Affairs to prove Egypt’s right to restore it. ‘Abd al-Gawwâd explained that the four parts of the painting had been found by the mission of the University of Rome during excavations in the West Bank in Luxor between 1976 and 1988. It was discovered missing during the inventory of the West Bank storage room of antiquities in 1995. ‘Abd al-Gawwâd pointed out that the painting is scheduled to be fully restored after the arrival of the fourth piece in order to be reassembled and displayed. (Mustafa Marie, “Ancient artefact ‘Nefertem’ retrieved from Australia”, Egypt Today, February 21, 2019. Voir également Nevine El-Aref, “Last piece of stolen ancient Egyptian relief recovered from Australia: Ministry”, Ahram Online, February 21; Ahmad Mansûr, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie récupère de l’Australie le dernier fragment de la stèle de Szen Nefertum », alYawm al-Sâbi‘, 21 février ; “Egypt retrieves smuggled artefact from Australian museum”, Egypt Independent, February 21; ‘Alâ’ alMinyâwî, « L’Égypte récupère de l’Australie le dernier fragment de la stèle de Szen Nefertum », Sada al-Balad, 21 février ; Sanâ’ Fârûq, « Les autorités égyptiennes récupèrent le dernier fragment de la stèle de Szen Nefertum », Watanî, 21 février ; Muhammad ‘Abd al-Mu‘tî, « L’Égypte récupère de l’Australie le dernier fragment de la stèle de Szen Nefertum », al-Ahrâm, 22 février). - 87 Février 2019 - Gîza Criminal Court sentenced on Wednesday a sculptor at the Supreme Council for Antiquities to six months in prison and ruled that he pays a fine of LE 1 million over illegal drills near archaeological areas in Gîza. The defendant has reportedly carried out illegal excavations in search for antiquities without authorization from concerned bodies. Several citizens have been arrested over the past weeks for illegally digging under their houses in Gîza in search for artifacts, as part of Tourism Police’s crackdown against illicit trade in antiquities. (…) Law No. 117 of 1983 imposes a prison term of 5 to 7 years and a fine of not less than LE 5,000($284) and not more than LE 7,000 ($397) on anyone who is proven guilty of illegal excavation for antiquities. An ancient tomb was unearthed beneath a house in Gîza, near the more than 4,000-yearold pyramids, after an excavation was carried out by the house owner, Tourism Police said in a statement on Feb. 3. The house owner was arrested as he excavated illegally. As per the law of antiquities, any excavations should be conducted after getting permission from the Supreme Council of Antiquities or from the Tourism Police Department; then, a committee should be formed by officials from the two bodies to check the presence of ancient artifacts. However, several illegal excavations have been reported recently because the owners of the archaeological sites are not compensated appropriately by the government. (“Sculptor sentenced to 6 months over unlicensed excavation for antiquities”, Egypt Today, February 21, 2019). BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 - Prominent archaeologist Zâhî Hawwâs denied the information included in the documentary entitled "King Tut: the Forgotten Treasure", claiming that the tomb of the Golden King belonged to Tut’s sister; Merit Aten. “The information stated in the documentary is incorrect,” Hawwâs stressed, adding that all the details shown around the tomb affirm that King Tut’s only son was buried there after King Tut suddenly died while hunting wild animals. “If we look at the scenes in the cemetery, we will notice that they were done by one artist, where the two tombs bear a painting of 12 monkeys, and thus the Valley of the Kings is actually named the Valley of the monkeys,” stated Hawwâs to al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘. Hawwâs confirmed that there is no scientific evidence that the tomb of King Tutankhamen was for his sister as all the queens are buried on the Eastern Bank of the Valley of the Kings. The veteran archaeologist pointed out that what was revealed during the documentary about finding a piece inside the cemetery not belonging to King Tutankhamen is normal, as the workshop in Tell al-Amarna did not only manufacture Akhenaton’s possessions, but 88 Février 2019 also the possessions of Tut Nefertiti. Thus, many pieces were placed in the tomb of the Golden King that did not necessarily belong to him. Hawwâs finally stated that archaeological elements cannot be judged by the naked eye. Rigorous scientific researches should be made in order to reveal the correct information. (Mustafa Marie, “Hawwâs denies information revealed in documentary about King Tut”, Egypt Today, February 21, 2019. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « Un documentaire attribue la tombe de Toutankhamon à sa sœur Méritaton », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 21 février ; Mira Maged, “Amazon Prime’s documentary “King Tut: Forgotten Treasure” contains false information: Zâhî Hawwâs”, Egypt Independent, February 23). - - Lundi 25 février 2019 The two “objects of the week” on display at the Egyptian Museum in Tahrîr Square at present are a gilded death mask and a painted stele. The 25th Dynasty mask was given to Egypt by a citizen who currently lives in France, and is now on show for the first time. The stele of Nit-Ptah was discovered at al‘Asâsîf necropolis on Luxor’s West Bank by the Metropolitan Museum mission in 1915. BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 It dates to the Middle Kingdom and depicts four members of the same family, two men and two women. The men have been painted in ochre and the women in light cream wash. The inscriptions over the figures are decorated in black and invoke the god PtahSokaris to provide offerings for the Ka of each member of the family. (Nevine El-Aref, “Gilded mask and painted stele are Egyptian Museum’s pieces of the week”, Ahram Online, February 25, 2019). - - Les travaux de restauration entrepris dans le jardin al-Andalous ont conduit à la découverte de trois fontaines qui remontent à 1935, date de la création du jardin. Le président du département des antiquités islamiques et coptes, Dr Gamâl Mustafa, a inspecté le projet de restauration de ce jardin, situé à l’Ouest du Caire et classé sur la liste du patrimoine. 89 Février 2019 headphones using X-rays, revealing the presence of skeletal parts hidden inside the body of the speaker. Ce projet de restauration est placé sous la supervision du directeur général de la zone, Muhammad Sha‘râwî ; du directeur des antiquités de l’Ouest du Caire, Muhammad Mustafa ; et de la directrice de la zone de Zamalek, Muna ‘Âdil. (Ahmad Mansûr, « Découverte de 3 fontaines lors des restaurations du jardin al-Andalous », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 25 février 2019). - - Director of archaeological units in the cargo villages ‘Alî Ramadân stated that after extracting the skeletal parts hidden inside a large speaker and examining them, it was confirmed that they were antiquities; hence, they were confiscated for the benefit of the Ministry of Antiquities in accordance with the law of antiquities protection No. 117 of 1983 and its amendments. Imân ‘Abd al-Ra’ûf, director general of the Archaeological Ports, added that the seized pieces are six parts of two mummies with the remains of the muffling and resin coils. Head of the Central Administration of Ports and Archaeological Units in Egyptian ports Hamdî Humâm affirmed that the customs authorities assumed the presence of a suspicious object placed in one of the speakers in a parcel set to be shipped to Belgium. All parcels were seized by the authorities for examination and to present them to the specialized archaeological committee. Humâm added that a specialized committee from the Ministry of Antiquities was formed immediately under the chairmanship of Georges Munîr, director general of the archaeological units, which in turn tested the BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 ‘Abd al-Ra’ûf further pointed out that the committee decided to expedite the antiquities’ delivery to the Egyptian Museum to complete their inspection and restoration. (Mustafa Marie, “Ancient skeletal parts confiscated in Cairo International Airport”, Egypt Today, February 25, 2019. Voir également ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Saisie de fragments de momies à l’aéroport du Caire avant leur exportation illicite vers la Belgique », Sada al-Balad, 24 février ; Nevine El-Aref, “Mummy body parts discovered in passenger’s luggage at Cairo airport”, Ahram Online, February 24; « Saisie de fragments de momies avant leur exportation illicite vers l’étranger », Watanî, 24 février ; Muhammad ‘Abd al-Mu‘tî, « Saisie de momies pharaoniques avant leur exportation illicite vers la Belgique », al-Ahrâm, 25 février). - 90 Février 2019 Mardi 26 février 2019 fractured. Later Roman quarry activity buried the sphinxes in soil. Also discovered embedded in the walls of the workshop was a rough-cut uraeus (coiled cobra) made to crown the head of the larger criosphinx, as well as a blank round-top stelae. Excavation work at the archaeological site in Gabal al-Silsila A Swedish-Egyptian mission led by Maria NILSSON and John WARD from Lund University has discovered a New Kingdom sandstone workshop and several sculptures during excavations carried out at Gabal al-Silsila archaeological site in Aswân. Mustafa Wazîrî, secretary-general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, said that the mission discovered among the debris in the workshop a large criosphinx (ram-headed sphinx) statue. The statue, approximately 5 metres long, 3.5 metres high, and 1.5 metres wide, is carved in a style comparable to the criosphinxes to the south of Khonsu Temple at Karnak. The sphinx is believed to be dated to Amenhotep III of the 18th Dynasty. The small criosphinx The criosphinx ‘Abd al-Mun‘im Sa‘îd, director-general of Aswân and Nubia Antiquities, said that hundreds of hieroglyphic fragments that belong to a destroyed Naos of Amenhotep III (Naos E), together with new sculpture fragments of the associated falcon, were unearthed. In addition, parts of an obelisk, including its pyramidion, were retrieved. Fragment of hieroglyphic The stelae discovered in the ancient workshop NILSSON told Ahram Online that the team unearthed a smaller practice piece of another criosphinx that may have been carved by an apprentice. Both sculptures seem to be preserved in a rough-cut and had been prepared for transportation, but were likely abandoned at Gabal al-Silsila when the larger sculpture BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 "It is a vey important discovery," said Sa‘îd, explaining that the finding highlights that the Gabal al-Silsila area was not only a quarry but also housed workshops for the fabrication of architectural elements used in the decoration of temples. (Nevine El-Aref, “New Kingdom workshop discovered in Egypt’s Gabal alSilsila”, Ahram Online, February 26, 2019. Voir également Samar al-Naggâr, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie annonce la découverte d’un atelier de fabrication de colonnes et de statues à Gabal al-Silsila », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 91 Février 2019 26 février ; Angy Essam, “Sandstone workshop uncovered at Gabal al-Silsila, Aswân”, Egypt Today, February 26; Ahmad Mansûr, « Mise au jour d’un atelier de fabrication d’éléments architecturaux à Gabal al-Silsila », al-Yawm alSâbi‘, 26 février ; “Egyptian-Swedish mission unearths pharaonic workshop”, Egypt Independent, February 26; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Découverte d’un atelier de fabrication d’éléments architecturaux à Gabal al-Silsila », Sada al-Balad, 26 février ; Muhammad alAswânî, « Nouvelle découverte archéologique à Gabal al-Silsila », Watanî, 26 février ; Nasma Réda, « Des statues pour les pharaons », AlAhram Hebdo du 6 mars). - - A gilded mummy mask and painted stele are this week’s displayed pieces at the Egyptian Museum in Tahrîr Square following restoration, according to a statement by the Ministry of Antiquities. Going on display for the first time, the gilded mask was offered to Egypt by the Egyptian owner who lives in France. The second display is the funerary stele of Nit-Ptah, which was discovered in 1915 by the Metropolitan Museum mission at the al‘Assâsîf necropolis on Luxor’s western bank. Mercredi 27 février 2019 Drainage workers found a Pharaonic stone with inscriptions during excavations in Masjid al-Sâda al-Shahâwiyya area in Kafr al-Shaykh. Major General ‘Isâm Rasâs, head of the Metobas Center and City, was informed of the discovery and decided to stop the excavation in that area immediately. Head of the local unit of the village Muhammad Qutb Abû Zlât and Head of Brambul police station Muhammad Zâhir headed to the site to examine the stone after receiving information from the excavation site’s engineer that he suspects the finding is an ancient stone. The head of the city of Metobas stated that the ancient stone was reserved to be presented to a committee of the Antiquities Authority. (Mustafa Marie, “Ancient stone found in Kafr al-Shaykh”, Egypt Today, February 27, 2019. Voir également Muhammad Sulaymân, « Découverte d’un bloc archéologique dans un village de Kafr alShaykh », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 27 février). - - Jeudi 28 février 2019 The stele dates back to the Middle Kingdom and portrays four members of one family consisting of two females alongside males. Bringing up a good-looking contrast, men were painted in ochre and women in light cream wash. The inscriptions over the figures are decorated in black depicting the god PtahSokaris to provide offerings for the Ka of each member of the family. (Mira Maged, “Two exclusive pieces displayed at Egyptian Museum this week”, Egypt Independent, February 26, 2019). - - BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 The Getty Conservation Institute’s project to conserve and manage the tomb of Tutankhamun came to a triumphant conclusion earlier this year, writes Zâhî Hawwâs. The Getty Conservation Institute (GCI) has completed a significant conservation and management project for the tomb of Tutankhamun. The project included a new lighting system, new floor for the tomb, a new 92 Février 2019 air-ventilation system and the cleaning as well as stabilisation of the wall paintings. I am happy to have been the one who signed the contract with the GCI for this project in 2009. It took about 10 years to finish the work to the end of January 2019. Jim CUNO, the president of the Getty Trust, came to Egypt to witness the work that the GCI was doing under the leadership of Timothy WHALEN. The project was supervised in situ by Neville AGNEW. A symposium has been organised at the Mummification Museum to explain all the processes involved in the work, and many members of the GCI attended the event. I consider the project to be the most important for the preservation of the tomb that has been carried out thus far on this tomb, which was the most important archaeological discovery in Egypt of the 20th century. This important work will be remembered because conservation preserves history. Let us take a moment to reflect on the history of this great discovery, the damage that has occurred to the tomb from mass tourism, and when the GCI took over the conservation work. We will then need to assess the 10 years of scientific work inside the tomb and finally to address the question of what we can do now to preserve this essential work and ensure its continuation. Should we close the tomb to the public and have tourists visit a replica, or should we limit the numbers of visitors to the tomb? The finding of the tomb of Tutankhamun was the most important archaeological discovery yet made in Egypt because the tomb was found completely intact on 4 November 1922 with 5,398 objects inside it. The day of the discovery was the most momentous for British archaeologist Howard CARTER, the man who found the tomb. He wrote the following description in his excavation diary: “hardly had I arrived on the work next morning than the unusual silence, due to the stopping of the work, made me realise that something out of the ordinary had happened. I was greeted by the BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 announcement that a step cut in the rock had been discovered… this seemed too good to be true.” I can identify with CARTER’s feelings because I am now excavating in the Valley of the Kings with Fathî Yâsîn, my assistant in the excavation in the western valley. I always keep silent because I expect that they will tell me that we have found a tomb. When I sit inside my tent in the valley and look towards the mountains, I also imagine that there is a tomb waiting to be discovered in this vast area. CARTER sent a telegram to Lord CARNARVON, who was funding the excavations. He told him that “at last we have made a wonderful discovery in the valley, a magnificent tomb with seals intact, re-covered same for your arrival: congratulations.” CARTER opened the tomb with CARNARVON and a few others in attendance on 27 November 1922. The most famous quotation that many remember regarding the discovery was when, at the moment of the opening, CARNARVON asked CARTER what he had seen and the latter answered, “wonderful things!” The Valley of the Kings is one of the most romantic places on earth. Twenty-six tombs of the most famous kings in the history of the world, the rulers of ancient Egypt during its golden age, have been found there. What really amazes me is the fact that CARTER arrived in the valley knowing that since it was his fifth year of work there, he would have no more chances to excavate because CARNARVON’s funding was coming to an end. One of the interesting stories recounted in the many books surrounding his work is that CARTER had brought a canary in a cage with him. When the workmen saw it, they said that it would bring good luck, and it did in the form of the discovery of the tomb. However, when CARTER went to his tent after sending the telegram to CARNARVON, a snake had eaten the bird. I talked to Shaykh ‘Alî ‘Abd al-Rasûl, the last member of the ‘Abd al-Rasûl family who found the cache of royal mummies at Dayr al-Baharî in 1881. I asked him if this was true, and ‘Abd al-Rasûl said that 93 Février 2019 he did not see a snake, but that he did hear that the bird had died. Other people think that the bird lived and was left with the wife of CARTER’s photographer Harry BURTON. But whether it was heralded by the death of this bird or not, there was trouble in store for CARTER. ANALYSIS: I myself carried out interesting work with Tutankhamun when I received a CT scan machine as a gift from the US magazine National Geographic and the German Siemens Company. I proceeded to scan the mummy, and when I took the lid off and removed the third coffin that topped the mummy, I had a wonderfully memorable moment: meeting the golden king Tutankhamun face to face. The CT scan revealed that he had had one clubfoot and one flat foot, so blood had not reached his toes. This is why in his tomb there were around 130 sticks and staves that aided him while walking. He also suffered from malaria. The project to examine the royal mummies also revealed much about the family of Tutankhamun. With DNA analysis, we were able to determine that the badly preserved mummy found in tomb KV55 was that of Akhenaten, who was the son of Amenhotep III and queen Tiye, as well as the father of Tutankhamun. The mummy found in KV35 known as the “Younger Lady” was found to be the mother of Tutankhamun, but she had no name though she was the daughter of Amenhotep III and queen Tiye. I found that the mummy of Tutankhamun had suffered a lot in modern times from the breathing of the tourists who visited the tomb, the temperature and humidity inside the tomb, and the dust. We arranged for a showcase to be made in Germany to preserve the mummy and moved the mummy from the sarcophagus to this new showcase. Of course, millions of people have visited the tomb since it was found in 1922. The tomb has also suffered from this mass tourism; for example, in 2010 there were 10,000 visitors to BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 the tomb every day. The tourists still used flash photography at that time, and we noted damage to the wall scenes due to the moisture in their breath. The scenes had begun to fade, the floors were in bad condition, and there were brown spots on the wall paintings that many thought could be dangerous to them. Almost every film crew that comes to Egypt also wants to film inside the tomb of Tutankhamun, which accelerates the deterioration. I realised that the scenes on the walls could be damaged forever if this situation continued. I announced to the press that in fewer than 100 years it could be that all of those wonderful tombs would be gone because of the way we were treating them. We could understand why some people asked for the tomb to be sealed again. Others made other suggestions, such as limiting the number of visitors per day. When I had observed these problems, I found a reputable institute to save the tomb: for me, it was clear that the Getty would be one for the job. Before I made this decision, I looked at the history of the Getty and recalled the incredible work that the Institute had accomplished at the tomb of Nefertari from 1986 to 1992. Those who saw this tomb before the Getty did the restoration work saw that it had suffered tremendously from the salt that was leaching from the mountain rock and damaging the scenes on the walls. No one believed that the tomb could have been saved back then. However, Luis MONREAL was in charge at the time as director of the Getty Conservation Institute. This hired a great Italian restorer, Paolo MORA, who led a team of fantastic conservators with young Egyptians who were in training. When I saw the tomb after the work had been carried out, I could not believe that it had been saved and had become so beautiful. I was recently in front of the tomb and saw a lady exiting from it. She was crying. I went to see what was wrong and was told that she was 94 Février 2019 crying because of the beauty of the tomb. The Getty also achieved a great project to preserve the non-royal mummy of “X” that had been sent to Los Angeles. This was a nonroyal mummy to be used as a control experiment for the project. The Getty designed a showcase and equipped the machines to control the humidity and heat. It also later cooperated with me on the restoration of the Sphinx. TUTANKHAMUN’S TOMB: In 2009, I met WHALEN, who was and still is the director of the Getty Conservation Institute. He is a very nice man and is a scholar and scientist who is respected and knowledgeable about the organisation and supervision of a team on such projects. The institute began the conservation of Tutankhamun’s tomb in 2009 after the agreement with WHALEN, who appointed AGNEW to supervise the project. AGNEW used to meet all the archaeologists who worked in the West Bank at Luxor to discuss the preservation of the West Bank and not just of Tutankhamun’s tomb. The Getty study indicated that the large spots on the walls of the tomb were not dangerous and had had no harmful effects on the scenes. The other issues of the lighting, conservation, and cleaning of the scenes, as well as the replacement of the floor, were carried out using the latest scientific methods to ensure that this work would save the most famous tomb in the world. The major issue now is what we can do to preserve this tomb in the future. Should we close the tomb to the public and simply use the replica near Howard CARTER’s rest house? The number of visitors to the tomb reached about 10,000 a day by 2010, and all of them visit the tomb at least once in the morning. This can damage the tomb and, again, I have to say that tourism is the enemy of archaeology in this case. We need to protect the tomb from tourism. When I asked WHALEN and AGNEW to tackle the issue, they did not agree that the tomb BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 should be closed completely. They wanted the Ministry of Antiquities to follow the rules and recommendations that they had written after the work on the tomb was finished and ready for the first visitors. When the trustees of the Getty Trust came to Egypt, with them was my friend James CUNO, the president of the Getty Trust. I had met Jim CUNO for the first time at Oxford University two years before when we were attending a debate about stolen artefacts in a question-and-answer format. The issue debated was whether stolen artefacts should be returned to their original countries or not. During the Getty trustees’ visit to Egypt, we all had dinner in the golden room at Muhammad ‘Alî’s Palace. We were accompanied by Khâlid al-‘Inânî, minister of antiquities, and Mustafa Wazîrî, secretarygeneral of the Supreme Council of Antiquities. CUNO asked me about the history of the beautiful room we were in. I smiled because I knew little about the palace’s history except that it was built by Muhammad ‘Alî Tawfîq, the uncle of king Fârûq, in 1903, and had been furnished in 1910 in a variety of artistic styles. He had lived in it until 1936. The hall was built to be a throne room, and it has Ottomanstyle decoration and paintings of the kings of Egypt. He used a throne covered with gold in the French style. We heard this information from the person now in charge of the palace. We then discussed the ancient tomb and how to implement the Getty’s recommendations, because I could see that WHALEN and AGNEW were really keen on the continuation of their efforts. They thought the ministry should appoint one person to be in charge of the tomb, recommending Ramadân Ahmad ‘Alî who was working in the conservation effort with the Getty team. al‘Inânî agreed to appoint him, and the discussion happened in the presence of Louise BRYSON, the former president of the Getty Trustees. CUNO and the other members of the board were really happy to come to Egypt to celebrate and see the magnificent work that 95 Février 2019 the institute had done. I met them on their first day in front of the Sphinx and gave them a lecture on the history of the Pyramids as well as the major discoveries that had happened on the site, such as the tombs of the Pyramid builders and the secret doors found inside the Great Pyramid. I told the trustees about the great work of the Getty Institute in Egypt, especially in the tomb of Nefertari and how Paulo MORA, the restorer, had accomplished a miracle here, as well as the training of the Egyptian conservators. I even said that I had been in the Valley of the Queens doing a TV interview when I saw the lady who had cried because of the tomb’s beauty. I mentioned another American tourist that I had met who had told me that he had not been able to believe that something like this tomb could exist and that the artists who created it should have had their names engraved in gold in history. I could see that the Getty trustees were really delighted to see the Getty Institute’s latest contribution to the conservation of the tomb of Tutankhamun. The discussion of the future of the tomb took place between me, the minister, CUNO, and WHALEN. We talked about the great project that the Getty had done in the site management of the Valley of the Queens. The entrance of Tutankhamun’s tomb LOOKING FORWARD: A major project had also been launched to protect the Valley of the Queens from floods, and the Getty did a study to preserve the valley though a very comprehensive site-management plan. The study was finished in 2010, but we could not implement its recommendations then because of the rise in the price of the BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 dollar. I believed we needed to raise about $10 million, so we asked CUNO for assistance. The other important project that we need to do, and I can see that CUNO and WHALEN are really willing to fund, is the further conservation of the tomb of Nefertari. The tomb was completely restored, or maybe it is not good to use the word “restoration,” as AGNEW said in his lecture in 1992 (restoration implies reconstruction, but conservation encourages maintenance). However, since that time, nothing further has been done. We now need to install a ventilation system, lighting, and change the floors, among other tasks. The Getty will start soon on this project as well. I think that the sort of wealth of archaeology on the West Bank of the Nile at Luxor cannot be seen in any other place in the world. It has the most beautiful tombs on earth. How can we preserve these treasures? We cannot deal with each site alone. I hope that the ministry of antiquities can go back to the 12 projects that I wanted to do, but never got a chance to because of what has happened to Egypt over recent years. Our plan was to build a site conservation centre on the West Bank. The location would be next to CARTER’s rest house at the entrance of the Valley. This centre should set out rules for each site, such as on conservation, excavation, and the number of tourists to be allowed to visit. Visits to the temples can happen at any time, but the tombs should be visited three times a day, once in the morning, afternoon, and evening. We did install a lighting system for the West Bank so that visitors could visit in the evening. This centre should be responsible for the conservation and the planning of the entire West Bank. I think that if we continue to restore the tombs, we should do so with a vision for the future. If we do not do that, and if this centre is not built, I think that these tombs could still be destroyed in fewer than 100 years. Photographers should photograph the scenes on the walls inside them and the inscriptions 96 Février 2019 inside the tombs and temples on a yearly basis, so that we can study their evolution. colourful garb and folkloric attire danced to the rhythm. Finally, the authorities also need to give scientists the opportunity to make decisions regarding the planning and safety of the monuments. These essential tasks should not be left to officials who may have little knowledge of archaeology or monuments. (Zâhî Hawwâs, “The Getty and Tutankhamun”, Al-Ahram Weekly, February 28, 2019). - Ministers of Antiquities, Tourism, Investments, Culture and Communication pose for a picture outside Abû Simbil templeEgypt Today/Abdullah Salah Abû Simbil’s solar alignment last week had a different taste. Thirty-six African ambassadors and heads of missions joined Egyptians in celebrating the phenomenon that takes place twice a year. On 22 October and 22 February every year, the sun’s rays travel through the Temple of Ramses II at Abû Simbil to illuminate the face of a statue of the pharaoh and the statues of the deities Amun-Re and Re-Hur-Akhty, leaving the god of darkness Ptah in the shade because of his connection to the underworld. Despite the cold, the usually calm Upper Egyptian town of Abû Simbil was abuzz with King Ramses II fever. A crowd of over 6,500 people gathered at Abû Simbil 280 kilometres south of Aswân on Friday to witness the solar alignment. Visitors stayed awake all night in front of the temple on the bank of Lake Nâsir waiting for sunrise, entertained by a musical troupe performing Nubian, African, Chinese, Moroccan, Belgian and other international folklore songs and dances. The atmosphere was joyous, as the sound of music filled the night air and women, men, boys and girls in BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Before the festivities, Minister of Antiquities Khâlid al-‘Inânî, accompanied by Minister of Investment and International Cooperation Sahar Nasr, Minister of Culture Înâs ‘Abd alDâyim, Tourism Minister Rânyâ al-Mashât and Minister of Communication ‘Amr Tal‘at along with Aswân Governor Ahmad Ibrâhîm, ambassadors and heads of missions from 22 African countries flocked onto Abû Simbil Temple’s bedrock to celebrate the event. This year’s celebration is not only a promotional campaign to celebrate the solar alignment but highlights the strong cooperation among five ministries to hold a seminal event for the ambassadors, especially after Egypt’s President ‘Abd al-Fattâh al-Sîsî announced that Aswân would be the city of African youth, coinciding with Egypt heading the African Union and hosting the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations, al-‘Inânî told Al-Ahram Weekly. He added that it was also a unique message to the whole world that Egypt is a country of peace, science and a great civilisation and that its antiquities are the “soft power that can easily penetrate hearts”. Guests toured both temples of King Ramses II and his beloved wife Nefertari and the artificial rock on which King Ramses II Temple was reconstructed. On the deck of a Nile cruise boat docked in front of the temple, they took their seats in a gala dinner hosted by the Ministry of Communication as streams of oriental music filled the night air of Lake Nâsir. 97 Février 2019 al-Mashât thanked the ministries of antiquities and culture for their cooperation in organising the event. She said the Ministry of Tourism “needs all efforts to make the best use of events to promote tourism to Egypt”. “Here we are with our brother ministers from the Egyptian government and we feel for the first time that we are one entity, and this is what President ‘Abd al-Fattâh al-Sîsî is adopting,” the Cameroon ambassador, who is the dean of African ambassadors, told the audience. He noted that it was the first time that the African ambassadors attend this solar alignment together, a fact that he described as a new beginning of a complete EgyptianAfrican era, showing “one African fabric”. Thousands of visitors watch sun alignment at Abû Simbil statue in Aswan-Egypt Today/Abdullah Salah ‘Abd al-Dâyim described the event as “a good and strong beginning” for Egypt as it chairs the African Union. The salvage operation of both temples was proof that Egypt was able to adapt to changes and would not sit idly by in the face of difficulties it had to deal with. After the salvage, the equinox was visible on 21 February and 21 October, but after the relocation, that shifted by one day. Husayn ‘Abd al-Basîr, director of the Bibliotheca Alexandrina Museum, told AlAhram Weekly that the ancient Egyptians had observed astronomical phenomena such as the helical rising of the sun during the vernal and autumnal equinoxes (21 March and 23 September). The equinox takes place twice a year at the Tropic of Cancer some 50 kilometres south of Aswân at Bâb Kalâbsha in Nubia. BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 The architects and astronomers at the time of Ramses II, ‘Abd al-Basîr said, had planned the Temple of Abû Simbil and hewed it out of rock some 180 kilometres south of the Tropic of Cancer. At this point, the rays of the sun fall upon the mountain in the morning, 25 days before the vernal equinox, and 25 days after the autumnal equinox. The temple axis runs perpendicular to the outer mountain surface. The inner halls of the temple were laid out exactly towards the main sanctuary, which contains statues of Ramses II and the gods Ptah, Amun-Re and Re-HurAkhty. During the vernal equinox, they illuminate the statues of Amun-Re, Ramses II and Re-Hur-Akhty for a few days. During the autumnal equinox, the statues are illuminated from the reverse side for the same period. “It was an ingenious project accomplished by the astronomers and architects of the time, who chose the mountain at Abû Simbil because it faces east,” ‘Abd al-Basîr said. “However, this phenomenon is not related to the king’s birthday or his accession to the throne. It was actually a way for the ancient Egyptians to identify the beginning of summer and winter and alert farmers to the start of the cultivation season and the harvest.” (Nevine El-Aref, “Solar unity”, Al-Ahram Weekly, February 28, 2019. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « 6 500 visiteurs ont assisté à l’équinoxe à l’intérieur du temple de Ramsès II », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 22 février ; “6.5K tourists watch sun alignment at Abû Simbil temple”, Egypt Today, February 22; Ahmad Mansûr, « Les ministres de l’Archéologie et de la Culture accompagnent 22 ambassadeurs africains dans une tournée à Abû Simbil », alYawm al-Sâbi‘, 22 février ; Mira Maged, “Sun, tourists converge on Ramses II statue in Abû Simbil”, Egypt Independent, February 22). - 98 III – MARS 2019 Samedi 2 mars 2019 engendré. (Ahmad Mansûr, « Le musée de Sharm al-Shaykh sera inauguré l’été prochain », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 2 mars 2019). - - Dimanche 3 mars 2019 Le président du Département des projets, Ing. Wa‘d Abû al-‘Ilâ, a annoncé l’achèvement imminent des deux salles d’exposition du musée archéologique de Sharm al-Shaykh dont l’inauguration est prévue vers la mi-2019. Il ne reste plus que les travaux d’enduits. Près de 700 pièces seront exposées dans la première salle et 500 pièces dans la seconde salle. La collection du musée sera sélectionnée parmi les réserves du Musée Égyptien de Tahrîr et d’autres entrepôts muséologiques. La commission muséologique a achevé la répartition des pièces. Archaeologists in Egypt have discovered a large ram-headed Sphinx that is linked to King Tutankhamun’s grandfather, Fox News reported on Sunday. Found beneath several feet of debris at Gabal al-Silsila, an ancient quarry on the Nile, the Sphinx is 16.4-feet longs and 11.5-feet high. Only its head was visible prior to excavation. The sculpture is believed to be from the time of King Tut’s grandfather, the pharaoh Amenhotep III, who ruled in the 14th century B.C. Egypt Today has recently reported that archaeologists are now working to carefully lift the mysterious statue; according to officials, because of its location, the statue cannot be directly extracted from the ground. The criosphinx (or ram-headed sphinx) is carved in a similar style to those at the famous Khonshu Temple at the huge Karnak complex, according to experts. Situé sur la route de l’aéroport sur une superficie de 191 000 m2, le musée de Sharm al-Shaykh se compose de neuf salles, en plus d’une grande salle de conférences, d’un soussol, d’un théâtre, de onze magasins d’artisanat local, ainsi que de dix-sept bazars. Les travaux ont repris en septembre dernier, après huit années d’arrêt, suite à la révolution de janvier 2011 et au déficit budgétaire qu’elle a BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 “During the sphinx excavations and placed up-side-down next to the large sculpture’s stomach, the team discovered a smaller practice piece of another sphinx, perhaps carved by an apprentice,” archaeologists explain, in a blog post. “Both sculptures are preserved in a rough-cut and prepared for transportation, but were likely abandoned at Gabal al-Silsila as the larger sculpture fractured.” Near the smaller piece, a rough-cut “uraeus,” or coiled cobra, was found. Experts note that the sculpture was intended to crown the head of the larger sphinx. 99 Mars 2019 Parts of an obelisk were also found in the ancient sandstone workshop, along with a quarry text from the site’s opening, written during Amenhotep III’s reign. of the under-renovation Graeco-Roman Museum in Alexandria to inspect progress in the project. Live Science reports that, when Amenhotep died, the sculptures he commissioned may have been left unfinished. During the 18th dynasty the Egyptians switched from limestone to sandstone. At this time, the quarries at al-Gabalayn were not yielding as much limestone as before. Gabal al-Silsila became a source of sandstone. The site provided numerous stone quarries on both the west and east sides of the Nile. The site contains many shrines erected by officials who would have been in charge of quarrying the stone. (Mustafa Marie, “Crio sphinx linked to King Tut’s grandfather discovered”, Egypt Today, March 3, 2019). - - Le Premier ministre, Mustafa Madbûlî, a ordonné le classement de la statue de Ferdinand DE LESSEPS sur la liste du patrimoine islamique et copte. Cette décision a été publiée dans le Journal Officiel, assortie d’un rapport scientifique rédigé par le ministère de l’Archéologie sur l’histoire de cette statue. Rappelant qu’après la guerre d’octobrenovembre 1956, la statue colossale de Ferdinand DE LESSEPS — qui marquait l’embouchure méditerranéenne du canal de Suez, à l’extrémité de la jetée de Port-Saïd — a été mise à bas puis remisée dans le chantier naval de Port-Fouad. (Hind Mukhtâr, « Publication dans le Journal Officiel du décret de classement de la statue de Ferdinand DE LESSEPS », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 3 mars 2019). - According to Hishâm Samîr, the minister of antiquities’ advisor for projects, the GraecoRoman Museum renovation project started in 2018 and is planned to be completed by the end of this year. - Egypt’s minister of antiquities and an archaeological delegation embarked on a tour BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 “So far, 48 percent of the work has been completed,” Samîr said, adding that this includes the restoration of the western and eastern façades; the inner walls and 90 percent of the building’s metal frame, as well as the consolidation of the museum’s ground floor, the exhibition halls and the administrative building. Ilhâm Salâh, head of the museums department, said that according to the planned exhibition scenario; the museum will have 30 galleries displaying 20,000 artifacts from the Graeco-Roman period. The museum will also have a state-of-theart conservation and research centre as well as a hall for multimedia. (Nevine El-Aref, “Renovation work underway at Graeco-Roman Museum in Alexandria”, Ahram Online, March 3, 2019. Voir également Ragab Ramadân, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie : Inauguration du Musée gréco-romain à la fin du premier trimestre 2020 », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 3 mars ; 100 Mars 2019 ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « 356 millions L.E. pour réaménager le Musée gréco-romain d’Alexandrie », Sada al-Balad, 3 mars ; Samar al-Naggâr, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie inspecte les travaux de réaménagement du Musée gréco-romain d’Alexandrie », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 3 mars ; Jacqueline Munîr, « Le Musée gréco-romain ressuscite », al-Yawm alSâbi‘, 6 mars). - The most recent efforts were carried out in the 1990s, when a number of pumps were installed to reduce the water levels, but the high humidity, caused by the nearby Mahmûdiyya Canal, and increased urban development continued to cause flaking of the bedrock that damaged relief decorations and caused the growth of green algae. - In collaboration with the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the National Authority for Potable Water and Sewerage (NAPWAS), Egypt’s Ministry of Antiquities has completed a groundwater lowering project at Kom al-Shuqâfa archaeological site in Alexandria. Minister of Antiquities Khâlid al-‘Inânî said, “as we are celebrating today the completion of the groundwater lowering project for the Catacombs of Kom al-Shuqâfa in Alexandria, we will also celebrate the completion of the Kom Ombo Temple groundwater lowering project in one month.” Both projects, according to the minister, come within the framework of mutual collaboration and partnership between Egypt and the United States to preserve Egypt’s archaeological heritage as well as restore, preserve and protect world-class monuments for future generations. Kom al-Shuqâfa catacombs in Alexandria were suffering damage caused by the infiltration of groundwater into their lower level. Several efforts were previously exerted to lower the groundwater level and prevent leakage into the catacombs. BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 With a USAID grant of $5.7 million, the Ministry of Antiquities — in collaboration with NAPWAS, the CDM Smith and AAW — has succeeded in fixing the problem through the implementation of Kom al-Shuqâfa groundwater lowering project. Meanwhile, Egyptian restorers have completed a comprehensive reconstruction and conservation project for tombs no 989 and no 990 in the catacombs. Work at tomb no 989 started in November 2017 and lasted for one year, while work at tomb no 990 began in February 2019 and is still awaiting the reconstruction of its ceiling and front pillars. Mustafa Wazîrî, General Secretary of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, explains that the project started in November 2017 and aims to reduce the groundwater level on site and protect the tombs from any damage caused by the leakage. This was achieved through providing a technical system to draw down the water level. Wazîrî pointed out that the accumulation of rain water has also had negative effects. To protect the tombs, said Engineer Wa‘d Abû al-‘Ilâ, head of the Projects Sector, six 40metre-deep wells were dug and a number of electronic pumps were installed along with drainage pipes. 101 Mars 2019 He asserted that the ministry carried out the project after carrying out all required studies. Abû al-‘Ilâ added that Kom al-Shuqâfa archaeological site has suffered from rising groundwater since its discovery, and that the lower level of the site was submerged with water, prompting the ministry to launch a project to establish drainage wells at a depth of 20 metres as a preliminary solution until the completion of the necessary studies before the start of the project. catacombes de Kom al-Shuqâfa à Alexandrie », Sada al-Balad, 2 mars ; Muhammad Migalla, « al-‘Inânî : 0,5 milliard L.E. pour développer les antiquités alexandrines », Sada al-Balad, 3 mars ; Samar al-Naggâr, « La baisse du niveau des eaux souterraines à Kom al-Shuqâfa a coûté 5,7 millions de dollars », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 3 mars ; “Egypt to make Kom al-Shuqâfa an open-air museum”, Egypt Independent, March 4 ; ‘Azza al-Sayyid, « 5,7 millions de dollars pour débarrasser Kom al-Shuqâfa des eaux souterraines », al-Ahrâm, 4 mars). - - Lundi 4 mars 2019 © Mahmûd Taha Kom al-Shuqâfa is considered one of the important examples of Roman funerary architecture as it was dug of a series of catacombs, dug three levels into the ground. The cemetery was used in the second half of the first century AD and continued its role as a grave until the fourth century AD. Wazîrî mentioned that a development project that aims to convert the Kom alShuqâfa archaeological site into an open-air museum will involve the creation of a new display scheme for its artefacts. A visitors’ route will be also provided. The necropolis consists of a series of Alexandrian tombs, statues and archaeological objects of the Pharaonic funeral cult with Hellenistic and early imperial Roman influences. Another feature of the catacombs is the Hall of Caracalla; tombs created for the horses of the Emperor Caracalla in 215 AD. (Nevine El-Aref, “Egypt completes groundwater lowering project at Alexandria catacombs”, Ahram Online, March 3, 2019. Voir également ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Projet de restauration des BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 La directrice générale du musée archéologique d’Ismâ‘îliyya, Muna Sha‘bân, organise, vendredi prochain, une conférence sur le statut de la femme dans l’Égypte ancienne. Cette conférence se tient en marge de la célébration de la Journée internationale des femmes. Le sujet de cette conférence sera illustré par les nombreuses pièces archéologiques conservées dans le musée. (‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Conférence au musée d’Ismâ‘îliyya sur le statut de la femme dans l’Égypte ancienne », Sada al-Balad, 4 janvier 2019). - 102 Mars 2019 Mardi 5 mars 2019 Le président de l’Administration centrale pour la restauration et la préservation des antiquités, Dr Gharîb Sunbul, a révélé que des travaux sont en cours en vue de la restauration des éléments décoratifs des façades du palais Alexan, situé à Asyût. Quant aux éléments manquants, ils seront remplacés par de nouveaux éléments, conformément aux conventions internationales sur la restauration. Dr Sunbul a précisé que certaines parties écroulées comme les escaliers et l’entrée Est du palais ont été sécurisées. Des échafaudages métalliques ont été installés tout au long des quatre façades. patrimoine. Il s’agit d’un tribunal connu sous le nom de Mahkamat al-Niswân (Tribunal des Femmes), car il était chargé durant l’époque du roi Fârûq de trancher les litiges concernant les femmes. Cet édifice, dépourvu d’éléments décoratifs et architecturaux de valeur, constitue un danger pour les riverains et les passants. La municipalité a déjà délivré un permis de démolir en règle. (‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Le bâtiment du Tribunal des Femmes n’est pas classé », Sada al-Balad, 5 mars 2019). - - Mercredi 6 mars 2019 Rappelant que le palais Alexan compte parmi les édifices les plus importants du gouvernorat d’Asyût. Il a été édifié en 1910 par Alexan Pacha Abskharoun. En 1996, il fut classé sur la liste du patrimoine islamique et copte. Il est situé au centre-ville d’Asyût, sur le bord du fleuve. Il appartient aux styles Baroque tardif et rococo. (Ahmad Mansûr, « Le palais Alexan à Asyût en cours de restauration », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 5 mars 2019). - - Des sources auprès du ministère de l’Archéologie se sont exprimées au sujet de l’édifice, sis rue de France à Alexandrie, qui est en passe d’être rasé. Les photos de cette destruction relayées sur Internet ont soulevé l’indignation des amoureux du patrimoine. Toutefois, les sources du ministère affirment que ce bâtiment n’est pas inscrit sur la liste du BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 In an effort to enhance visitors’ experience at archaeological sites in Egypt, the Ministry of Antiquities has introduced a number of new services at the Gîza Plateau, which is home to the famed pyramids of Gîza. Assistant of the Minister of Antiquities for the Development of Archaeological Sites Ayman Sa‘îd explains that the introduction of the new services is part of a cooperation protocol between the ministry and the National Bank of Egypt to develop a number of archaeological sites in Egypt. 103 Mars 2019 The protocol covers sites including Abû Simbil, Philae and Karnak temples, as well as the Dahshûr and Saqqâra archaeological sites. The services in Gîza include an information desk, sun shades, benches and outlets to charge mobile phones and cameras in different areas of the plateau, according to Sa‘îd. Also installed are guide posts and signboards to improve the presentation of the archaeological site. (Nevine El-Aref, “New services for tourists installed at Gîza Plateau”, Ahram Online, March 6, 2019. Voir également Samar al-Naggâr, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie équipe le plateau des pyramides de nouveaux services pour les visiteurs », alMasrî al-Yawm, 6 mars ; Ahmad Mansûr, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie achève l’installation de nouveaux services pour les visiteurs du plateau des pyramides », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 6 mars ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Nouveaux services pour les visiteurs du plateau des pyramides », Sada al-Balad, 6 mars). - - Le 14 mars 1910, date exceptionnelle pour le Vieux-Caire qui voit l’inauguration du premier pavillon du musée Copte, au sein du fort romain Babylone, entouré d’anciennes églises. Cette inauguration a été réalisée grâce aux efforts de Marcus Sémaika Pacha qui s’est beaucoup investi pour le fonder et l’enrichir au fil des années. Le musée célèbre cette inauguration par une petite exposition, « Empreinte d’amour », qui dure jusqu’à la moitié du mois de mars. Celle-ci est composée de trois coffrets d’Évangile en argent et d’un chapiteau, ainsi que de trois livres qui racontent l’histoire du musée et des BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 anciennes églises de l’Égypte. Ces livres ont été rédigés par Marcus Sémaika lui-même. « Empreinte d’amour a été inaugurée le 14 février, Journée mondiale de l’amour, qui nous a inspiré ce titre. Mais c’est aussi en marque de reconnaissance du rôle du fondateur du musée », souligne Gîhân ‘Âtif, directrice générale du musée Copte. Pour elle, bien que le nombre des pièces exposées soit modeste, elles sont d’une importance majeure, puisque c’est avec ces œuvres qu’a été créé le noyau du musée Copte. En effet, vers la fin du XIXe siècle, l’Égypte ne comptait qu’une poignée de musées : le Musée gréco-romain à Alexandrie, le Musée d’Art islamique, qui occupait une pièce dans la mosquée al-Hâkim Bi Amr Allah au Caire, et le Musée Égyptien à Boulaq, dirigé par l’archéologue français Gaston MASPERO, qui y avait consacré une pièce pour les œuvres coptes. De là est née l’idée de Sémaika Pacha de créer un musée consacré à la civilisation copte. « Les pièces coptes sont un point de liaison entre les civilisations de l’Égypte ancienne et gréco-romaine et plus tard islamique », explique Hânî Zarîf, adjoint au musée Copte. En hiver 1908, « le patriarcat orthodoxe, sous la souveraineté du pape Cyril V, avait besoin de financer les travaux de rénovation et de restauration des églises. Faute de budget, le pape exposait d’anciennes pièces coptes à la vente », raconte Zarîf. Et c’est Marcus Sémaika Pacha qui a demandé d’arrêter cette vente et de conserver ces œuvres, tout en promettant de payer le patriarcat. Il a alors ouvert les dons publics pour le patriarcat et a fourni la somme voulue, soit 180 L.E. Et les objets ont été conservés temporairement dans une pièce adjointe à l’église Suspendue, jusqu’à l’installation du musée Copte. Parmi les pièces sauvées figurent les trois coffrets d’Évangile fabriqués de bois et de couverts d’argent doré composantes de l’exposition. Néanmoins, chacun d’eux provient d’une église et d’une époque différente. Le premier vient de l’église de Sainte-Barbara du Vieux Caire. « Selon l’inscription arabe du côté, ce coffret et 104 Mars 2019 l’Évangile qu’il contenait sont dédiés à la chapelle de l’Archange Michel de l’église de Sainte-Barbara en 1724 », explique Zarîf. Sur ce coffret, une grande croix constitue le motif dominant, encadré par des textes coptes. rareté, cette pièce a été intégrée dans l’exposition », reprend Zarîf. Fondateur du musée. Coffret daté du XVIe siècle Toujours provenant du Vieux Caire, le deuxième coffret exposé a été découvert à l’église de la Vierge au sein de Qasrat alRihân. « D’après une inscription arabe, il date de 1424 », reprend Zarîf. Plus riche en ornements, ce coffret comporte une croix avec un texte copte et une décoration florale. Les extrémités de la croix sont décorées par du verre coloré, alors que les coins du coffret sont ornés de motif floral où dominent les marguerites et les vignes torsadées. Quant au troisième coffret, il se distingue par la croix à tête triangulaire. Il est orné de deux lignes de textes coptes. Les motifs floraux, habilement dessinés, dominent tout le coffret. L’exposition contient aussi un chapiteau en calcaire. « Vu ses ornements et l’histoire de son arrivée au musée, ce chapiteau est énigmatique », souligne l’adjoint du musée. Ce chapiteau est divisé en deux. La partie supérieure est ornée d’un relief sculpté : un visage humain entouré de feuilles d’arbres. Selon Zarîf, c’est la première fois qu’un visage apparaît dans un motif ornemental. Tandis que la partie inférieure est décorée de l’épine du Christ. « On ne sait pas exactement les origines de cette pièce. Le musée l’a achetée à un certain ‘Abbâd ‘Alî al-‘Awadî. Il faut étudier cette œuvre. Mais vu sa beauté et sa BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 En plus des coffrets, le visiteur peut aussi découvrir trois livres exposés qui relatent l’histoire de la fondation du musée. Le premier présente le prologue du guide du musée Copte réalisé par Marcus Pacha. Il expose le texte de la loi 14 promulguée en 1931 par le roi Fu’âd Ier de transférer la propriété du musée Copte de celle du patriarcat orthodoxe au ministère d’al-Ma‘ârif al-‘Umûmiyya, équivalent du ministère de l’Éducation. Le deuxième livre met l’accent sur la liste des manuscrits coptes et arabes qui se trouvaient au musée Copte, au patriarcat et dans les monastères de toute l’Égypte jusqu’en 1930. Dans la même vitrine, le visiteur peut lire un article rédigé par Sémaika Pacha, qui raconte l’histoire de la fondation du musée Copte. Ce texte est écrit à l’occasion de la visite de Sa Majesté le sultan Fu’âd Ier, le mardi 21 décembre 1920, au musée Copte. L’exposition regroupe toutes les étapes de la fondation du musée Copte et montre les efforts de son créateur. (Doaa Elhami, « Musée copte, le retour aux sources », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 6 mars 2019). - - Tourism Minister Rânyâ al-Mashât announced on Tuesday that the Egyptian pavilion at the Berlin Stock Exchange will raise the banner of the Grand Egyptian Museum. 105 Mars 2019 She also revealed that 360-degree photos for the museum would be displayed at the event. She added that the Egyptian pavilion participating in the stock exchange this year will be backed by new technological and promotional methods. For the first time, the Egyptian pavilion will shed light on the various Egyptian tourist cities via the allotment of presentation sections with screens displaying promotional materials for each tourist city. These displays reflect one of the main elements of the promotion initiative and structural reform program launched by the ministry in November 2018, according to alMashât. She mentioned that the Ministry of Tourism will promote the inauguration of the Grand Egyptian Museum on tickets to the Berlin Stock Exchange and will put giant banners for the museum on the streets of the German capital to attract widespread attention to the opening of largest museum in the world, scheduled for 2020. As part of the promotion of the Grand Egyptian Museum opening, a promotion program that constitutes one of the main elements of the promotional campaign for Egyptian tourism, a part of the Egyptian pavilion has been dedicated to the museum, showing its maquette alongside threedimensional images of King Tutankhamun’s golden mask and throne. (“Grand Egyptian Museum banner to be raised at Berlin Stock Exchange: Tourism Minister”, Egypt Independent, March 6, 2019). - - L’université Senghor d’Alexandrie a organisé, du 25 au 28 février, un colloque BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 international sur le thème de la sauvegarde numérique du patrimoine et intitulé « De la pierre au papier, du papier au numérique ». La conférence s’est intéressée aux conséquences de la mondialisation et à la menace accrue du terrorisme, de même qu’aux risques de la destruction du patrimoine africain et arabe, qui touchent un grand nombre de pays. Elle a par ailleurs mis l’accent sur l’importance du numérique, qui pourrait constituer la meilleure solution en matière de sauvegarde du patrimoine en péril. Le colloque a offert une plateforme d’échange pour des présentations de cas issus de plusieurs domaines, soit les monuments, les objets d’art et les bibliothèques. Il a accueilli des experts, principalement francophones, en plus de décideurs économiques et politiques, de chercheurs et d’universitaires, venus expliquer aux participants les meilleures solutions en vue d’une conservation durable du patrimoine. Parmi les tables rondes les plus intéressantes du colloque figurait celle consacrée à l’importance du numérique pour la documentation des langues en voie de disparition. « Les langues constituent une composante fondamentale du patrimoine immatériel de l’humanité. Plusieurs milliers de langues sont menacées (Crystal, Dixon, Maffi) et leur sauvegarde est une question dont les chercheurs, les organismes internationaux et les fondations se sont emparés au cours des dernières décennies », a expliqué Laura Abou Haidar, professeure à l’Université Grenoble à Alep, indiquant que « dans le domaine des sciences du langage, la révolution numérique nous a aidés à lancer un nouveau projet de recherche dont nous posons les bases actuellement et qui s’appelle ANSOLVAR ou Atlas numérique sonore des langues vernaculaires du monde arabophone ». Et d’ajouter : « En regardant un peu la situation géopolitique du monde arabophone, son instabilité chronique et les situations de guerre qui entraînent des mouvements migratoires massifs, il paraît évident que les langues en usage dans cette partie du monde subissent des bouleversements majeurs, et le 106 Mars 2019 recours au numérique, à travers la constitution d’un atlas numérique sonore de langues vernaculaires, peut constituer une solution de sauvegarde digne d’intérêt sur le plan patrimonial », a-t-elle expliqué, précisant que le projet est actuellement en cours d’exécution, afin de venir au secours de ces langues en voie d’extinction. et ce, dans le but de préserver et de mettre à la disposition des chercheurs, sur Internet, près de 10 000 documents, accompagnés d’une centaine de textes rédigés par des universitaires, des scientifiques et des conservateurs pour éclairer les thématiques et contextualiser les documents. Ces documents, numérisés, selon des normes de haute qualité, sont disponibles sur le portail numérique de la BnF. (Samar Zarée, « Numériser pour conserver », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 6 mars 2019). - - L'église rupestre de Qorqor en Éthiopie Durant une autre session, les chercheurs Claire Bosc TIESSE, de l’Institut national d’histoire de l’art (INHA), et François GUENA, de l’École Nationale Supérieure d’Architecture à Paris, ont montré aux participants comment ils ont réalisé un modèle 3D à partir duquel il est possible d’effectuer des visites interactives d’églises et de sites chrétiens d’une façon simple et attrayante. « Nous avons travaillé sur un exemple 3D pour l’église antique de Maryam Qorqor, ou Korkor, en Éthiopie, qui est l’une des plus grandes et plus belles églises rupestres dans la région éthiopienne datant du XIIIe siècle. À travers ce 3D, l’internaute peut effectuer une visite avec une présentation complète de son histoire et de ses caractéristiques », a expliqué TIESSE. Il s’agit d’un travail permettant de poser les bases d’une future étude plus large sur les sites chrétiens du nord de l’Éthiopie et susceptible d’intéresser les chercheurs et les professionnels des domaines de la conservation du patrimoine et du tourisme. Agnès MACQUIN, directrice de la Bibliothèque de l’Institut Français d’Archéologie Orientale (IFAO), a, elle aussi, fait part de son expérience avec le numérique. En effet, l’IFAO participe, depuis 2016 déjà, à un projet de numérisation international en coordination avec la Bibliothèque nationale de France (BnF) et les Bibliothèques d’Orient, BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Trois questions à Philipe DELAVAL, président du Centre des monuments nationaux à Paris. Al-Ahram Hebdo : La numérisation dans le domaine du patrimoine est-elle une exigence ? Philipe DELAVAL : Je dois avouer que depuis que j’ai rencontré le numérique pour la première fois, il ne m’a plus quitté. Mon premier contact avec la révolution numérique remonte au début des années 1990. À cette époque, je participais à la Bibliothèque nationale de France à un programme de numérisation des connexions de la bibliothèque, dans le cadre du grand projet de sa rénovation ou de sa refondation, engagé à l’époque par l’ancien président François MITTERRAND. J’ai réalisé alors que la numérisation des connexions écrites et des documents papiers était une garantie pour une bonne conservation. — Comment le numérique peut-il servir le patrimoine ? — Je suis convaincu que les documents, les archives et même le patrimoine immatériel ne doivent pas rester à l’écart de la révolution 107 Mars 2019 numérique. Nous avons des exemples très clairs où la numérisation est essentielle, comme les événements en Syrie et en Afghanistan, il y a quelques années. On a alors vu comment un certain positionnement identitaire peut avoir des conséquences très graves sur la conservation ou le maintien du patrimoine, ce qui nous explique pourquoi l’on doit créer une forte relation entre le numérique et le patrimoine. Pas seulement dans les cas où ces monuments sont totalement ou partiellement détruits et où le numérique permet de les restituer à travers des dispositifs de réalité virtuelle. Le numérique apporte aussi une plus-value considérable à la connaissance et à la mise en valeur des monuments existants par la présentation de leurs états successifs ou de leurs usages, ce qui aide à percevoir des éléments difficilement saisissables à l’œil nu, à permettre la visite aux personnes handicapées et à gérer les flux de visite, notamment dans les lieux exposés à un risque de surfréquentation. — La visite numérique des sites archéologiques remplacera-t-elle un jour la visite réelle ? — En parlant de monuments, je pense que ce n’est pas possible, puisque le site archéologique a un caractère de fixité, d’intransportabilité et d’impossibilité de duplication. Un tableau ou un livre, par exemple, vous pouvez les reproduire plusieurs fois et ils auront le même effet, mais on ne peut pas reproduire les ensembles monumentaux, et encore moins les sites naturels, qui sont liés au patrimoine monumental. Le deuxième facteur qui rend difficile l’intervention du numérique dans le secteur monumental est l’entourage territorial de ces monuments. Un monument implanté dans une ville ou un lieu possède souvent une influence déterminante sur les caractéristiques de ce lieu. Un exemple : le château de Versailles qui a créé toute une ville autour de lui, qui est la ville de Versailles. De plus, il est difficile de reproduire le caractère expérientiel d’une visite, qui est le produit d’un ensemble de facteurs, comme l’humidité de l’air et l’odeur de moisissure, qui sont absents dans le BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 fac-similé. (Samar Zarée, « Philipe DELAVAL : Les documents, les archives et même le patrimoine immatériel ne doivent pas rester à l’écart du numérique », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 6 mars 2019). - - L’entrepôt muséologique n° 18, situé dans la zone archéologique de Saqqâra, a été victime d’une tentative de vol. Des sources auprès du ministère de l’Archéologie ont révélé qu’il y a environ un mois et demi, l’entrepôt a été ouvert pour inventaire. Or, la commission d’inventaire a été surprise de découvrir qu’une grande partie des caisses contenant les pièces antiques a été fracturée et les pièces dispersées sur le sol. Les autorités judiciaires ont alors ordonné la fermeture de l’entrepôt. Après autorisation de la justice, le Conseil Suprême des Antiquités a procédé, hier, à un nouvel inventaire de l’entrepôt. Une grande statue archéologique, qui existait au moment du premier inventaire, a disparu. Après des recherches minutieuses, elle fut retrouvée à l’extérieur de l’entrepôt. Ce qui pose de nombreuses questions sur les raisons de sa sortie de l’entrepôt et de sa présence dans cet endroit. Une enquête criminelle est ouverte, afin d’élucider tous ces mystères. (‘Alâ’ alMinyâwî, « Tentative de vol de la réserve n° 18, située à Saqqâra », Sada al-Balad, 6 mars 2019). - - Vendredi 8 mars 2019 "Queens of Egypt" est le titre de la nouvelle exposition organisée par le National Geographic de Washington. Elle braque la 108 Mars 2019 lumière sur les multiples moyens déployés par les femmes pour accéder au pouvoir dans l’Égypte ancienne. Plus de trois cents pièces archéologiques exceptionnelles y sont exposées. Elles proviennent de cinq musées européens et canadiens dont, surtout, le Museo Egizio di Torino. De Néfertiti à Cléopâtre, en passant par Néfertari et Sekhmet, toutes ces figures fortes reflètent le respect accordé par les anciens Égyptiens au rôle de la femme. (Muhammad ‘Abd alRahmân, « "Queens of Egypt" : 300 pièces antiques qui éblouissent le monde », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 8 mars 2019). - sur la fuite à l’étranger de 32 % des antiquités égyptiennes », Watanî, 11 mars). - - Mercredi 13 mars 2019 Névine Nizâr Mardi 12 mars 2019 The Information Center of the Cabinet denied rumors that 32 percent of the artifact of Egypt, equal to 32,600, were smuggled since 2011. The Center said in a report that it had contacted the Ministry of Antiquities, which categorically denied the news, stressing that 32 percent of the Egyptian antiquities were neither smuggled nor sold abroad and that the state has been careful to preserve its cultural heritage against illegal attempts to smuggle Egyptian antiquities abroad. The ministry stressed it spares no effort to restore any Egyptian antiquities smuggled abroad. The Antiquities Ministry has taken all necessary measures to protect artifacts against any attempt to damage them or steal them. The Ministry of Antiquities appealed to all media outlets to be careful and accurate before spreading such rumors, which may lead to confusion of public opinion and anger citizens. (Mira Maged, “Cabinet denies 32% of Egypt’s artifacts were smuggled abroad”, Egypt Independent, March 12, 2019. Voir également « Le Conseil des ministres : La vente à l’étranger de 32 % des antiquités égyptiennes est une rumeur infondée », alMasrî al-Yawm, 11 mars ; Ruz Husnî, « La vérité BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Névine Nizâr vient d’être nommée assistante du ministre des Antiquités pour la muséologie. Dépoussiérer, moderniser et réinventer les scénographies des musées égyptiens, telle est sa mission. Entretien. Al-Ahram Hebdo : Vous avez été nommée assistante du ministre pour la muséologie, un nouveau poste au sein du ministère des Antiquités. Quel est votre rôle ? Névine Nizâr : Dans le cadre du développement et du réaménagement de plusieurs musées en Égypte, j’ai eu comme mission de préparer et de suivre l’exécution des travaux muséologiques de nouveaux grands projets. Cela concerne le choix des pièces antiques à restaurer ou à exposer en accord avec les thèmes et scénarios muséologiques des musées, comme la préparation du design des salles pour mettre en valeur les pièces exposées. Par ailleurs, je cherche à mettre en place une méthode commune à tous les musées tout en prenant en considération la spécificité de chacun pour les enrichir. — Êtes-vous satisfaite de l’état actuel des musées en Égypte ? — Non, pas tellement. Plusieurs d’entre eux doivent être modernisés. Le ministère des Antiquités dirige près de 50 musées nationaux, régionaux et spécialisés. Cette variété et cette richesse ont leur pour et leur contre. Nous avons des édifices récents, 109 Mars 2019 certains tout juste inaugurés, mais qui, pourtant, auraient besoin d’une nouvelle vision plus moderne, d’une scénographie différente pour améliorer la qualité de leurs expositions. — Quels sont les points faibles que vous avez pointés dans les différents musées égyptiens ? — Bien que ces lieux exposent des pièces qui éblouissent toujours les visiteurs du monde entier, ils manquent de conception. Et c’est ce qu’on cherche à créer : une conception unique, claire et riche. Jusqu’à maintenant, le travail et les programmes dans les musées ne sont que des efforts et des tentatives personnelles de modernisation. Il n’y a pas de vision commune. — Cela veut dire que tous les musées en Égypte devront suivre les mêmes méthodes de travail ? — Je cherche à créer une méthode unifiée de recherches et d’études scientifiques. Par exemple, il est inacceptable que la scénographie d’un musée se contente d’une liste de pièces entassées dans une salle, sans pouvoir développer ni transmettre au visiteur une information sur ce qu’il voit. Il est aussi regrettable de trouver des pancartes explicatives portant les noms de célèbres pharaons, écrits différemment à chaque fois, ainsi que les dates et les dynasties, la police et la traduction, etc. C’est un travail compliqué, mais nous sommes actuellement sur la bonne voie. Pour régler ce problème, nous avons besoin d’un seul guide, rassemblant tous les termes archéologiques, qui serait la référence pour tous les musées du monde. — Comment peut-on améliorer l’exposition des pièces antiques et les rendre plus attractives ? — D’abord, il faut bien déterminer le message que chaque musée veut transmettre, pour ensuite lui créer sa propre vision. Puis, nous avons besoin de faire des études approfondies pour bien choisir et classifier les pièces. Pour ce faire, il faut créer une banque de données détaillée qui permet de choisir facilement les pièces à exposer, d’avoir des BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 informations détaillées sur chacune d’elles, sur ses dimensions, son lieu de découverte, son historique de restauration et autres. Si on partage les informations de tous ces domaines, on pourra arriver aux résultats visés et à une bonne muséologie. — La muséologie est-elle une science à étudier ou une discipline à pratiquer ? — Aujourd’hui, le terme de muséologie se définit dans le monde entier comme un ensemble de théories et méthodes scientifiques liées au champ muséal. C’est un travail compliqué de recherches et de synthèses. Le terme « muséologie » est extrêmement vaste. Il faut avoir une idée, la développer et ensuite chercher les pièces les plus pertinentes, y apporter un complément d’informations, et les meilleures conditions d’exposition ; d’éclairage, de peinture, de vitrines et autres. La muséologie est à la fois une science et une discipline, qui étudie la vie muséale et ses interactions avec l’environnement qui l’entoure. C’est un gros challenge. Et pour le réussir au mieux, nous devons profiter des nouvelles générations qui ont étudié cette science dans les universités égyptiennes d’archéologie. — Avec l’inauguration de nouveaux musées, notamment régionaux, peut-on dire que l’Égypte possède aujourd’hui des musées dotés de visions modernes ? — La vision des musées régionaux a changé au cours des dernières années car leur objectif est devenu plutôt éducatif. Par exemple, celui de Kafr al-Shaykh, qui devrait être inauguré cette année, a pour thème essentiel la science et les contributions égyptiennes. Pour ce, nous avons collaboré avec les facultés de Médecine et de Pharmacie pour montrer l’évolution de la médecine depuis l’antiquité jusqu’à l’époque contemporaine. — Êtes-vous contre l’exposition de grand nombre de pièces, et de la muséologie basée sur une ligne chronologique que l’on voit un peu partout ? 110 Mars 2019 — Les musées ne sont pas des entrepôts où l’on conserve les pièces. On doit savoir classer les pièces de sorte qu’elles soient explicatives et en faire un scénario qui puisse donner une idée claire aux différents visiteurs. On doit déterminer le public ciblé pour établir un thème de manière attrayante, voire ludique. Le classement des pièces, la mise en valeur de chaque collection, la médiation, l’animation, l’éclairage, etc. Tous ces enjeux doivent être pris en considération lors de la planification d’une salle dans un musée. — Il faudrait donc de nouvelles approches pour attirer le public ? — La muséologie doit être nouvelle, attrayante, et pourquoi pas choquante. Il faut que chaque pièce conduise à une autre et qu’elle apporte une information complémentaire, aidant à développer l’histoire racontée. On doit classer les pièces d’une manière à captiver le public tout en facilitant son cheminement à travers l’exposition. Je rêve aussi de faire une sorte de livret pour les jeunes dans chaque musée, dans lequel ils répondraient à des questions. — Combien de temps estimez-vous nécessaire pour mettre en place tous ces changements ? — Une fois que l’idée muséologique est claire, le travail pour concrétiser un scénario dure au moins deux ans, le temps de l’étudier et ensuite de bien choisir les pièces qui seront exposées. Ce plan de travail est donné à une compagnie qui s’occupe des vitrines et des équipements de son et lumière. — Le Grand Musée Égyptien (GEM) et celui de la civilisation à Fustât, le NMEC, ont emprunté beaucoup de pièces aux différents musées. Aujourd’hui, certains musées craignent d’être vidés de leurs trésors. Qu’en pensez-vous ? — Les musées doivent se compléter. Et pour cela, ils doivent échanger des pièces entre eux. Malheureusement, en Égypte, chaque musée s’attache à sa collection, même si elle ne contribue pas à enrichir son scénario. Or, on doit tous collaborer pour permettre la BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 réalisation de ces projets nationaux. De plus, le touriste veut voir le plus grand nombre de monuments possible au cours de son séjour en Égypte, dans un seul endroit. Il n’a pas le temps de visiter tous les sites archéologiques du pays. — Peut-on changer le scénario muséal dans les anciens musées ? Plus précisément, peut-on moderniser le Musée égyptien du Caire ? — Tout le monde parle du sort du Musée égyptien du Caire, surtout après les nouveaux projets du GEM et du NMEC. On ne peut pas du jour au lendemain décider de tout recommencer. Les gens sont attachés à ce musée sous cette forme. D’autre part, le musée en tant que bâtiment est devenu historique et l’on doit le conserver. C’est le premier édifice fondé en Égypte pour être un musée. Il continuera de conserver les antiquités égyptiennes, soit 5 000 pièces, et ses vitrines de valeur. Mais ces dernières années, force est de constater que certaines salles étaient devenues un entrepôt pour les pièces antiques et non plus un musée. Nous allons changer cela. (Nasma Réda, « Névine Nizâr : La muséologie doit être nouvelle, attrayante, et pourquoi pas choquante », AlAhram Hebdo du 13 mars 2019). - - L’équipe de restaurateurs du ministère de l’Archéologie a achevé les travaux de restauration et de nettoyage des scènes et des inscriptions qui décorent le plafond du temple d’Isnâ, situé au sud de Louqsor. Le secrétaire général du CSA, Dr Mustafa Wazîrî, a précisé que cette intervention a révélé pour la première fois la splendeur des couleurs et des décorations. 111 Mars 2019 De son côté, le directeur de la zone archéologique d’Isnâ, Ahmad Hasan Amîn, a annoncé l’achèvement de la documentation photographique des textes et des décors du temple. 1919. (‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Accès gratuit aux Égyptiens à la zone archéologique de Mît Rahîna pour célébrer la Fête nationale de Gîza », Sada al-Balad, 13 mars 2019. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « Accès gratuit aux Égyptiens à la zone archéologique de Mît Rahîna », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 13 mars ; Ibrâhîm Mu‘awwad, « Accès gratuit à la zone archéologique de Mît Rahîna pour célébrer la Fête nationale de Gîza », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 23 mars). - - Jeudi 14 mars 2019 Quant à la directrice des restaurations du temple d’Isnâ, Intisâr Mustafa, elle a souligné que l’équipe de travail poursuivra sa mission en vue de restaurer et de nettoyer tous les parois, fixer les couleurs, retirer la couche de suie et refixer certains blocs de pierre. (Ahmad Mansûr, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie achève la restauration et le nettoyage du plafond du temple d’Isnâ », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 13 mars 2019. Voir également Samar alNaggâr, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie annonce l’achèvement de la restauration et du nettoyage du plafond du temple d’Isnâ », alMasrî al-Yawm, 13 mars ; ‘Umar al-Mahdî, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie achève la restauration et le nettoyage du plafond du temple d’Isnâ », al-Ahrâm, 13 mars ; ‘Alâ’ alMinyâwî, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie achève la restauration et le nettoyage du plafond du temple d’Isnâ », Sada al-Balad, 13 mars). - - À l’occasion de la célébration de la Fête nationale du gouvernorat de Gîza, la zone archéologique de Mît Rahîna accueillera gratuitement tous les visiteurs égyptiens, le dimanche 31 mars prochain. Cette date fait référence à la mort de plusieurs habitants du village Nazlat al-Shubak au cours des affrontements avec l’occupant britannique en BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Le ministre de l’Archéologie, Dr Khâlid al‘Inânî, a reçu l’ambassadeur de la République tchèque en Égypte, S.E.M. Jan FULIK, afin d’examiner les moyens de renforcer la coopération bilatérale dans le domaine archéologique, les musées et l’échange d’expertise. Au cours de cet entretien, l’ambassadeur s’est félicité des relations établies entre les deux États. Il a affirmé la volonté de son pays à resserrer les liens bilatéraux dans le champ archéologique. (Ahmad Mansûr, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie et l’ambassadeur tchèque examinent le renforcement de la coopération », al-Yawm alSâbi‘, 14 mars 2019. Voir également Samar alNaggâr, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie reçoit l’ambassadeur tchèque au Caire », al-Masrî alYawm, 14 mars ; Islâm ‘Abd al-Ma‘bûd, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie et l’ambassadeur tchèque examinent le renforcement de la coopération archéologique », al-Shurûq, 14 mars ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie et l’ambassadeur tchèque examinent le renforcement de la coopération », Sada al-Balad, 14 mars). 112 Mars 2019 - - The southwest corner of the burial chamber post-conservation in 2018 photos courtesy of GCI The Getty Conservation Institute has orchestrated the most important archaeological project ever carried out in Egypt in its conservation of the tomb of Tutankhamun, writes Zâhî Hawwâs. When the tomb of the boy Pharaoh Tutankhamun, who died at the age of 19, was discovered in 1922 by archaeologist Howard CARTER, the media frenzy that followed was incredible and continues to this day. The tomb alone attracts thousands of visitors each year. Moreover, the modern city of Luxor with its monuments of the Karnak and Luxor Temples on the East Bank, and the necropolis on the West Bank, together with the mortuary temples, the Valley of the Kings, the Valley of the Queens, the tombs of the Nobles, nearly 1,000 in total, all attract an endless stream of visitors. Almost every tourist to the Valley of the Kings enters king Tutankhamun’s tomb, one of the smallest in the valley consisting of only four chambers and with only the burial chamber painted. All the other walls are bare, a unique situation in royal tombs and an indication that Tutankhamun’s death had been unexpected, and his tomb had to be prepared in haste. The archaeologist Neville AGNEW was the maestro who led the team that performed the conservation work on the tomb of Tutankhamun. He exercised the most professional leadership throughout and was supported by Timothy WHALEN, the director of the Getty Conservation Institute (GCI) in the US. BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 This is what we need in Egypt: conservation. We need to preserve our heritage, and the Getty carried out what we really need. The conservation work on the tomb of Tutankhamun was in my opinion the most important project ever done in the archaeology of Egypt, and it was led by professional scholars WHALEN and AGNEW. I would like to thank them on behalf of Khâlid al-‘Inânî, the minister of antiquities, and Mustafa Wazîrî, director-general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities (SCA). I asked AGNEW to write a brief summary of the Getty’s work on the tomb. I do not think I need to change anything in the text he wrote, because it is important for the world to know all the steps of this conservation project that took 10 years to complete. The text appears below. “Rising concerns were expressed about the condition of the tomb and the impact of so many visitors all clamouring for entry. Day after day, year after year, visitors had flowed in and out of the tomb like the tide coming in and going out. Nobody knows how many people have been into the tomb since its discovery — it must be in the many millions. “After 3,232 years of total darkness and quiet, seemingly safe deep below the valley floor, it was subjected to a dramatic and shocking change — lights, people, the shuffle of feet on the wooden viewing platform, and the sometimes loud babble of voices as excited visitors pointed and exclaimed. Then film crews made endless demands for access, and they swarmed into the tomb with even more powerful lights dragging tripods and cables, sometimes bumping into the walls and dragging against the beautiful quartzite sarcophagus. “Some were even so thoughtless as to scratch graffiti on the walls; visitors picked at the paintings where they could reach out from the platform into the burial chamber; they shed lint from their clothes, dust from their shoes, sweat from their bodies, and carbon dioxide from their breath. 113 Mars 2019 history. Nefertari’s tomb in the Valley of the Queens had suffered from a different kind of ‘disease’ — natural salts in the wall paintings that were destroying them. The acclaim that the success in the conservation of Nefertari’s tomb received gave Hawwâs the confidence to approach the Getty with a new challenge: that of dealing with the spots, but not only the spots, also the other threats to Tutankhamun’s tomb. Conservators at work in the burial chamber “Worse, what was the effect of all this on the disfiguring brown spots on the wall paintings in the tomb? These spots, up to a few centimetres in diameter, appeared only on the wall paintings. They had been noted with interest by CARTER, who believed they were microbiological, fungi and bacteria. Unknown in other tombs in Egypt, there was no frame of reference to be certain that the change in environment caused by the visitors was not reactivating the spots. Were they growing and would they spread and destroy the wall paintings? “Such changes to the ancient art of underground monuments are well known. For example, the famous prehistoric cave paintings of Lascaux in France had been afflicted by aggressive fungus after the tomb was opened to tourists. Nobody really knew how to deal with the fungus, but it certainly resulted from the huge change in the microclimate. It seemed very possible that Tutankhamun’s tomb might go the same way. A sort of panic resulted, and experiments were conducted to try to sterilise the spots and the tomb itself. There was no certainty that the treatments would be effective. Many news media kept up the clamour for answers. Some said the tomb had to be sealed again, while others called for fewer visitors or for access only by small numbers of visitors and so on. “When Zâhî Hawwâs took over as head of the Antiquities Organisation, he turned to the GCI, a trusted partner which had previously conducted a six-year conservation of the spectacularly beautiful wall paintings in the tomb of queen Nefertari, the favourite wife of Ramses the Great, the long-lived and one of the most powerful rulers in all of Egypt’s BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 “The GCI rose to the challenge, and in 2009 it began an intensive study with SCA personnel of the condition of the tomb and the wall paintings and, of course, the spots. The objectives of the project were to conserve the wall paintings, improve the environmental conditions, upgrade the infrastructure (lighting, walkways, viewing platform, and ventilation) and presentation of the tomb (signage and interpretative materials), undertake the training of staff, and devise a programme for the sustainable maintenance and visitation of the tomb. “A big team was assembled: Egyptologists, conservators, engineers to study the environment and ways to improve it, designers, lighting experts, scientists to research the materials of the tomb, research librarians and photographic archivists. Many organisations generously shared their knowledge and resources. After 10 years, with unavoidable delays, the project is complete, and the tomb is in stable condition with a pleasant environment for visitors due to the new filtered air-ventilation system and the wall paintings cleaned and stabilised. “No restoration was done — that is forbidden in modern conservation practice because restoration diminishes the authenticity of the original and that over time could lead to confusion as to what is real and what is new, and we do not have the right to do that. “The good news was that the spots were definitely not growing — the micro-organisms are dead. This was shown in two ways by sophisticated micro-biological analysis and testing and more simply by a careful examination of historic photographs from 114 Mars 2019 CARTER’s time. Comparison of the wall paintings with the photographs showed no growth of the existing spots and no new spots. The result is conclusive. “The less good news is that extremely fine dust cannot be totally excluded from the tomb when thousands of visitors enter daily bearing dust and lint on their clothes. While most of the dust will be extracted by the ventilation system that supplies filtered air, it is impossible to maintain a dust-free environment. After all, outside is the desert, with frequent dust storms and people walking into the tomb covered in dust. It is a bad situation for conservation because cleaning the wall paintings, which are fragile, inevitably leads to the loss of paint fragments that is irreversible and cumulative. Conservators at work in the burial chamber “A symposium was organised at the end of January 2019 in Luxor to present the project to the Egyptian authorities, archaeologists, and the press. Hawwâs spoke on behalf of the ministry of antiquities and expressed satisfaction at the outcome of the project and thanks to the GCI, which again had rescued one of the treasures of Egypt. ventilation, with new signs in English and Arabic, it is the obligation of the authorities to keep the tomb in the best condition possible. “If neglect were to be the case, it would be noticed by international visitors and the press that the tomb’s condition had deteriorated once again. Such an unfortunate situation would not bring credit to the authorities. At historic sites in Egypt, monitoring of the condition and maintenance of the infrastructure have not been strong points in the past. “The joint GCI-SCA team has drawn up a manual in English and Arabic for day-to-day, weekly, monthly, and annual monitoring and maintenance. Though not exciting like archaeological discovery, the functions of site management cannot be neglected or a site will suffer irreversible damage. The site manager and the authorities in Luxor and on the West Bank have confidence that the tomb, with guidance from the manual, will be well protected and managed for the future, and the Getty stands by to provide advice and support should it be needed — after all, that is what partners and friends should do for each other. “We all want the glorious tomb of Tutankhamun to continue to exist in the best possible condition for centuries to come.” (Zâhî Hawwâs, “Getty’s symphony for Tutankhamun”, Al-Ahram Weekly, March 14, 2019). - - Vendredi 15 mars 2019 “In 2022, the centenary of the discovery of the tomb will be the occasion for renewed celebrations and more public interest and exhibitions on Tutankhamun’s life and times and his untimely death. Ever more visitors will come to see the treasure in the Grand Egyptian Museum and to the tomb in the Valley of the Kings. Now that the Getty Conservation Institute and the Supreme Council of Antiquities have completed the conservation of the tomb and renewed and upgraded the infrastructure, lighting and BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 115 Mars 2019 Le ministre de l’Archéologie, Dr Khâlid al‘Inânî, a reçu hier l’ambassadeur d’Autriche en Égypte, S.E.M. Georg STILLFRIED, afin d’examiner les moyens de renforcer la coopération bilatérale dans le domaine archéologique : musées, restauration, etc. Les deux responsables ont également envisagé la signature d’un accord portant sur la muséologie, l’entraînement des archéologues et l’échange d’expertise. (Ahmad Mansûr, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie et l’ambassadeur d’Autriche examinent le renforcement de la coopération bilatérale », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 15 mars 2019. Voir également Ahmad ‘Uthmân, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie examine avec l’ambassadeur d’Autriche le renforcement de la coopération archéologique », al-Wafd, 15 mars ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie examine avec l’ambassadeur d’Autriche la signature d’un accord sur l’entraînement des archéologue », Sada alBalad, 15 mars). - point of both civilizations and a vital strategic base for their partnership. The ceremony will include an artistic session reflecting the Arab and African civilizations combined, and speeches by a number of African figures on their aspirations in respect to Egypt’s chairmanship of the AU. The agenda includes panel and roundtable discussions on Arab and African challenges having as participants youth leaders and decision makers. That is in addition to a number of cultural and entertainment activities. (Mustafa Marie, “Aswân’s sites to be opened for free for AAYP guests”, Egypt Today, March 16, 2019). - - - Samedi 16 mars 2019 The director of Aswân and Nubia antiquities ‘Abd al-Mun‘im Sa‘îd said that all Aswân’s archaeological sites will be opened for free without tickets for the guests of Arab and African Youth Platform. Sa‘îd added that Philae, Abû Simbil, Idfû, Kom Ombo temples will be all ready for the platform guests. The first edition of the Arab and African Youth Platform having as participants 1,500 youths will kick off on Saturday in Aswân under the auspices of President ‘Abd al-Fattâh al-Sîsî and will conclude on Monday. President Sîsî dubbed Aswân the capital of African youth in the closing session of the second edition of the World Youth Forum that took place in Sharm al-Shaykh in November where he announced the launch of the current event. To encourage bilateral cooperation between the public and private sector, the Ministry of Antiquities has started a cooperation scheme with the private sector to develop the visitor facilities at local archaeological sites. In collaboration with the National Bank of Egypt the ministry completed the development of Philae temple archaeological site according to UNESCO standards. The first event on the agenda is a ceremony celebrating Egypt’s chairmanship of the African Union (AU) as the status of the country in the Arab World and the African continent will be highlighted as a meeting BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 116 Mars 2019 Mustafa Wazîrî, secretary general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, said that the work includes upgrading the Nile dock and the entrance gate, and the installation of security kiosks and signs. He promised that the ministry will start similar development projects in Abû Simbil, the Gîza Plateau, Dahshûr, Karnak and Saqqâra. (Nevine El-Aref, “Facilities upgraded at Egypt’s Philæ temple complex”, Ahram Online, March 16, 2019. Voir également Samar al-Naggâr, « Lancement du projet de développement du temple de Philæ », alMasrî al-Yawm, 6 mars ; Ahmad Mansûr, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie lance le projet de réaménagement du temple de Philæ à Aswân », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 6 mars ; ‘Alâ’ alMinyâwî, « Lancement du projet de réaménagement du temple de Philæ à Aswân », Sada al-Balad, 6 mars ; Muhammad ‘Abd al-Mu‘tî, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie : Réaménagement du temple de Philæ à Aswân », al-Ahrâm, 7 mars). - - Lundi 18 mars 2019 The Archaeological mission of the Maritime Archaeological Center of Alexandria University’s Faculty of Arts found a number of different types and sizes of anchors during an archaeological survey. The survey was performed at Bâgûsh Harbor on the North-West Coast, near the city of Marsa Matrûh, under the supervision of the Central Department of Submerged Antiquities of the Ministry of Antiquities. BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Head of the Central Department of Submerged Antiquities Ihâb Fahmî explained that the anchors discovered were made of stone, iron and lead and dated back to the Hellenistic era up until the 20th century. In addition, a number of pottery vessels from North Africa, Egypt, Greece, Italy, Spain and Palestine were also discovered by the archaeological mission, which indicates intense marine activity in that region through the different ages and reveals that Bâgûsh Harbor has been used by ships for more than 2,000 years. Fahmî affirmed that the mission will resume its work to conduct a careful study on these discoveries to highlight the development of marine activities in Egypt. (Mustafa Marie, “Several marine discoveries made in Marsa Matrûh”, Egypt Today, March 18, 2019. Voir également Ragab Ramadân, « Découverte à Bâgûsh d’un certain nombre d’ancres », alMasrî al-Yawm, 18 mars ; Ahmad Mansûr, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie annonce la mise au jour d’un certain nombre d’ancres à Bâgûsh », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 18 mars ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Découverte à Bâgûsh d’un certain nombre d’ancres », Sada al-Balad, 18 mars ; “Anchors dating to Hellenistic era uncovered near Marsa Matrûh”, Egypt Independent, March 19 ; Dalia Farouq, « D’anciennes ancres maritimes découvertes sur la Côte-Nord », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 17 avril). - - In collaboration between the Pulitzer Arts Foundation and Brooklyn Museum, an exhibition titled “Striking Power: Iconoclasm in 117 Mars 2019 Ancient Egypt” will run at the Brooklyn Museum from March 22 until August 11. - - Mardi 19 mars 2019 Akhenaten and His Daughter Offering to the Aten. Photo: Brooklyn Museum According to the Pulitzer Arts Foundation’s website, this exhibition is the first to portray the history of iconoclasm (destruction of religious art) within ancient Egypt. Utilizing almost 40 artifacts from the museum’s collection, the exhibition aims to shed light on the widespread campaigns of intentional destruction that was religiously and politically motivated. The legacies of pharaohs Hatshepsut (reigned ca. 1478–1458 BCE) and Akhenaten (reigned ca. 1353–1336 BCE) are the main subjects, in addition to the topic of iconoclasm targeting religious beliefs of the time by devastating their objects. Le ministère de l’Archéologie est sur le point d’achever son projet de construction d’un club pour son personnel, situé à côté du Musée national de la Civilisation égyptienne (NMEC) à Fustât. Le secrétaire général du CSA, Dr Mustafa Wazîrî, a confirmé que près de 60 % du projet est déjà terminé. Both intact and damaged pieces will be put on display. Crown Prince Khaemwaset. Photo: Brooklyn Museum By focusing on how iconoclasm as a practice existed within ancient times and continues until day this, visitors will question the nature of ownership, memory, and visual culture. (Mira Maged, “Brooklyn Museum holds first exhibition on iconoclasm in Ancient Egypt”, Egypt Independent, March 18, 2019). BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 De son côté, l’adjoint au ministre de l’Archéologie pour les affaires architecturales, Hishâm Samîr, a précisé que ce projet consiste en trois étapes. La première étape, achevée à 90 %, consiste en un bâtiment d’une superficie de 5 500 m2, une salle de fêtes, une salle de 118 Mars 2019 réunions, un grand restaurant principal, une bibliothèque et des terrasses de plein air. La deuxième étape consiste en une grande piscine, un bâtiment annexe de deux étages, d’une superficie de 3 500 m2. Quant à la troisième étape, elle consiste en des terrains de jeux, un jardin pour les enfants, des espaces de divertissement et des parkings. (Samar al-Naggâr, « Achèvement de 60 % du projet d’un club pour le personnel du ministère de l’Archéologie », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 19 mars 2019. Voir également Islâm ‘Abd alMa‘bûd, « Wazîrî : Achèvement de 60 % du projet d’un club pour le personnel du ministère de l’Archéologie », al-Shurûq, 19 mars ; Mahmûd ‘Abd al-Bâqî, « Achèvement de 60 % du projet d’un club pour le personnel du ministère de l’Archéologie », Vetogate, 19 mars ; MENA, « Achèvement de 60 % du projet d’un club pour le personnel du ministère de l’Archéologie », al-Dustûr, 19 mars ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Achèvement de 60 % du projet d’un club pour le personnel du ministère de l’Archéologie », Sada al-Balad, 19 mars). - palace was built in 1907 was turned in to a centre of arts by the Ministry of Culture in 1975. The marble statue of Muhammad ‘Alî Pasha in the middle of the main hall in ‘Â’isha Fahmî’s Palace standing between oil painting of his grandsons Khedive Tawfîq and King Fu’âd I (Photo: Zeinab El-Gundy) It was closed for the past two decades for renovations and was reopened in May 2017. It has since begun to host a series of exhibitions. The first exhibition’s theme was paintings by internationally renowned artists in Egyptian museums. The second was “ancient textiles” from the Islamic and Coptic museums. - Mercredi 20 mars 2019 An exhibition at the Centre of Arts in Zamâlik offers a fascinating glimpse into Egypt’s monarchical period, with a collection of paintings and statues depicting the Muhammad ‘Alî dynasty which ruled Egypt for nearly 150 years. The “Features of an Era” exhibition, which opened in January and closes next week, is showcasing a number of items that have never before been displayed for the public. According to the director of centre and the organiser of the exhibition Ihâb al-Labbân, “Features of an Era” is the newest in the series of exhibitions called “Treasures of our Museums” hosted at the centre since its inauguration, focusing on unique items from Egyptian museums. The Centre of Arts is located in ‘Â’isha Fahmî’s Palace, a neo-classical European architectural gem in upscale Zamâlik. The BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 The stained glass and staircase at ‘Â’isha Fahmî’s Palace. (Photo: Zeinab El-Gundy) The current exhibition showcases 120 painting and artefacts that were already in the less-known al-Gazîra Arts Museum, which has been closed for nearly two decades due to maintenance and renovation work. Most of the artefacts are paintings and portraits of members of the Muhammad ‘Alî family, including Muhammad ‘Alî himself, considered the founder of the modern Egyptian state. The Muhammad ‘Alî dynasty started in 1804 when Muhammad ‘Alî Pasha, an Albanian commander in the Ottoman army, was chosen by the public to rule Egypt to break away from Ottoman rule following Napoleon’s short invasion of Egypt in the late 18th century. 119 Mars 2019 A bronze statue depicting Muhammad ‘Alî Pasha riding a horse. (Photo: Zeinab El-Gundy) see recognition of the good things done by the Muhammad ‘Alî dynasty in Egypt. For nearly 150 years Egypt saw ups and downs under the rule of Muhammad ‘Alî royal family. A 19-century oil painting of Muhammad ‘Alî Pasha. (Photo: Zeinab El-Gundy) The dynasty’s rule came to an end on 23 July 1952 when a group of Egyptian army officers, led by Muhammad Nagîb and Gamâl ‘Abd al-Nâsir, overthrew King Fârûq, sending him into exile in Italy, where he lived until his death. On 18 June 1953, the Egyptian republic was officially declared, putting an official end to the monarchy. Members of the Muhammad ‘Alî family were among the visitors to the exhibition in Cairo, including Crown Prince Muhammad ‘Alî, the son of former King Ahmad Fu’âd II and grandson of King Fârûq, as well his wife Princess Nawâl, who came from abroad to see it. King Fârûq on the board of Egypt’s Royal Ship "Al-Mahrousa". (Photo: Zeinab El-Gundy) Former Prince ‘Abbâs Hilmî, the son of Prince Muhammad ‘Abd al-Mun‘im and the grandson of Khedive ‘Abbâs Hilmî II, visited the exhibition and expressed his happiness to the curators about how it shows the public paintings and artefacts that they have not seen before. Melekper TOUSSOUN, the granddaughter of Prince ‘Umar Toussoun who was known for his huge contribution to charity, archaeology, culture and the independence movement came from Paris to see the exhibition. An undated and unfinished oil painting for King Fârûq of Egypt and Sudan along with one of the tea silverware set used in the inauguration of Suez Canal in 1869. (Photo: Zeinab El-Gundy) The exhibition also includes valuable household items that were once owned by members of the royal family, like a silver tea set that was used in the inauguration of Suez Canal in 1869. (Zeinab El-Gundy, “Zamâlik exhibition offers glimpse of royal faces from a bygone era”, Ahram Online, March 20, 2019). - - La directrice générale du musée Copte, Dr Gîhân ‘Âtif, inaugure aujourd’hui une exposition temporaire intitulée "Hawwa" (Ève). Les pièces exposées varient entre des accessoires de beauté et des vêtements féminins datant de l’époque copte. Cette exposition est organisée en marge de plusieurs célébrations concernant la femme, comme la Fête des Mères ou la Journée internationale des femmes. Quant au titre de l’exposition, il reflète le soin accordé par la femme égyptienne à sa beauté tout au long de l’histoire égyptienne en général et au cours de l’époque copte en particulier. (‘Alâ’ alMinyâwî, « L’exposition "Hawwa" révèle la beauté de la femme égyptienne à travers les siècles », Sada al-Balad, 20 mars 2019). - - Jeudi 21 mars 2019 Tutankhamun fever hit the French capital this week as Paris is welcoming the “Tutankhamun, the Treasures of the Pharaoh” exhibition on its second leg after Los Angeles in the US as part of a worldwide tour. Toussoun praised the exhibition and its organisers saying that she was happy to finally BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 120 Mars 2019 sold, and it is expected that this will reach 150,000 tickets before the public opening of the exhibition at the Grande Halle de la Villette on 23 March. A VIP inauguration by Egypt’s Minister of Antiquities Khâlid al-‘Inânî is to be held on 21 March. Covers of French magazines (photo: Vincent NAGEOTTE) The features of the golden boy-king can be seen everywhere in the city centre, including in metro stations, shops, restaurants and outside residential buildings. Meanwhile, the golden sarcophagus of Tutankhamun has caught the front pages of many French newspapers and magazines, some of which have devoted issues to Tutankhamun’s treasures, history, and the discovery of his tomb. The mask exhibited in 1967 The immersive exhibition will unveil more than 150 artefacts from the tomb of Tutankhamun over the next six months. More than 50 pieces from this collection have travelled for the first time out of Egypt. It is a unique opportunity for worldwide audiences to rediscover the history of one of the most perplexing kings in ancient Egyptian history who lived almost 3,300 years ago as well as many of the personal belongings of the young sovereign that accompanied him in the two worlds of life and death. Gilded statuette of god Horus (photo: Vincent NAGEOTTE) The collection of the young Pharaoh is back in Paris, 52 years after its last visit in 1967 when more than 1.2 million visitors gathered to admire 45 objects from the boy-king’s collection exhibited in the Petit Palais. Managing director for exhibitions at the IMG company that organised this year’s show, John NORMAN, said the exhibition was like none that had been seen before. Millions of people around the world would get the opportunity to see these ancient objects in an immersive context, he said, adding that “Tutankhamun’s place in people’s imaginations will be secure for generations to come.” According to the organiser of the exhibition, some 130,000 tickets had been BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 These will be exhibited within the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) that is currently under construction overlooking the Gîza Plateau and is scheduled to open in 2020. Ka Visitors will be able to learn about how scientific analysis of the Pharaoh’s 3,000-yearold mummy has revealed new information about his health and lineage, as well as how cutting-edge archaeological tools have 121 Mars 2019 assisted in discovering tombs and analysing existing ones in ways never before imagined. The discovery of the tomb and the history of Egyptian archaeology, along with new scientific analysis of the mummy, will be also shown through a video exhibition in the show presenting scan data of Tutankhamun’s mummy. gilded wooden statuette depicting the king riding a black varnished leopard, four marble canopic jars, and a gilded wooden jackalheaded figurine with the god Duamutef on the base. There is a wooden travelling chest with gilded knobs inlaid with ebony and ivory, gold finger rings with images of the god Amun-Re on a cartouche-shaped bezel, a marble game board, and tapestry woven linen gloves. One iconic item in the exhibition is a statue of Ka, a wooden guardian statue with gilded head-dress and skirt, and other items including ushabti figurines, head-rests, boxes and jewellery. The god Horus with the sun-disk New DNA testing shows that the young Pharaoh suffered from malaria and had a badly broken left leg above the knee that pierced his skin. This likely resulted in the infection that caused his death. The exhibition also takes visitors into the afterlife, visualising it through objects from Tutankhamun’s tomb. It combines technology, music and animation in novel ways. “We have used a lot of technology in the exhibition,” NORMAN said, describing it as “a very theatrical experience”. “We had to change the 110 doors of the Grande Halle to hardened steel models to protect the works from the risk of fire and to ensure their safety. We also had to modernise the temperature conditions, since it was necessary to cool the room without airconditioning,“ Didier FUSILLIER, head of the Grande Halle de la Villette, told the French newspaper Les Échos. “The works arrive from Los Angeles and only come out of their container inside la Villette. Cranes and trucks enter directly into the Grande Halle, which avoids the manipulation of objects.” Tutankhamun posters decorating the buildings and streets in Paris Tutankhamun The most important artefacts on show include a 40cm gold coffin, the gold diadem from Tutankhamun’s mummy, a gold fan featuring an ostrich hunt, a small gold canopic coffin ornamented with faience, a silver trumpet used for religious ceremonies, a BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 “We have equipped the crates with a Sense Aware system, which provides information on geolocation and environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity,” Mathilde GOFFARD, vice president of land operations at FedEx France, told the newspaper. 122 Mars 2019 Ilhâm Salâh, head of the Museums Sectors at the ministry, said the collection had been insured for $800 million. It would be accompanied by an officer from Egypt’s Tourist and Antiquities Police, a restorer and a curator, she said, adding that the revenue from the exhibition was estimated at $50 million for each country involved, and there would also be a percentage paid on the number of tickets and souvenirs sold. également Ahmad Mansûr, « Campagne publicitaire à Paris pour l’exposition de Toutankhamon », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 15 mars ; Muhammad ‘Abd al-Mu‘tî, « Paris célèbre la venue de Toutankhamon », al-Ahrâm, 21 mars). - - The ministry would benefit from 10 per cent of the value of the items sold, as well as $1 for each visitor above 400,000, reaching $4 per visitor at 700,000 visitors. “The exhibition arrived in Los Angeles in March 2018, and it is now in Paris as a message of peace from the Egyptians to the whole world to show how the ancient Egyptians built their own great civilisation with passion, faith, love, knowledge and art,” al‘Inânî said. “It will allow humanity to admire our treasures and encourage visitors to come to see the fascinating monuments in their original context in Egypt,” he added. Other legs of the exhibition include the Saatchi Museum in London, the Smithsonian Museum in Washington, the Sydney Museum in Australia, the National Museum in South Korea, the Franklin Institute in Philadelphia, the Field Museum in Chicago, the Muri Art Centre in Tokyo and the Osaka Museum of Art. The French TV channel France2 described the Tutankhamun exhibition as the most important cultural event in Paris for years, while the one held in 1967 “was the most beautiful Christmas gift” imaginable, it said. Recalling the 1967 exhibition, Jean-Marc GONION, the editor of Le Figaro Magazine, told Târiq al-‘Awadî, the curator of the exhibition, that although he was young at that time he remembered that his parents had left him at his grandmother’s house so he would not stand queuing at the Petit Palais to explore the treasures of the Egyptian boyking. (Nevine El-Aref, “Tutankhamun comes to Paris”, Al-Ahram Weekly, March 21, 2019. Voir BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 The Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) in alRimâya Square received 35 large pieces of wooden antiquities from Khufu’s second boat in Gîza; in addition to receiving 118 artifacts from the Egyptian Museum in Tahrîr. Director General of the Preliminary Restoration and Transportation of Heavy Antiquities at the GEM Îsa Zaydân explained that among the most important pieces received is a wooden box personally used by King Tut, coated with ivory and seashells, in addition to a boat with a pair of paddles and a colorful frontal cabin with natural colors. A collection of sculptures made of colored wood depicting everyday life in ancient Egypt was also among the transferred artifacts. Zaydân further pointed out that before packaging and transferring the artifacts, preliminary repairing and strengthening of the boat and other artifacts were completed. It took 12 days to restore, package and transfer the artifacts. The restoration and transfer team also transported 35 large wooden artifacts after the completion of its preliminary restoration works, documentation and three-dimensional photography. Thus, the total transferred wooden artifacts from Khufu’s second ship to the Grand Egyptian Museum are 784 pieces. (Mustafa Marie, “35 additional artifacts transferred to Grand Egyptian Museum”, Egypt Today, March 21, 2019. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « Le GEM réceptionne 35 123 Mars 2019 pièces en bois appartenant à la deuxième barque de Chéops », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 21 mars ; Radwa Hâshim, « Le GEM réceptionne 35 pièces en bois appartenant à la deuxième barque de Chéops », al-Watan, 21 mars ; ‘Umar al-Mahdî, « Le GEM réceptionne 35 pièces en bois appartenant à la deuxième barque de Chéops », al-Ahrâm, 21 mars ; Islâm ‘Abd al-Ma‘bûd, « Le GEM réceptionne 35 pièces en bois appartenant à la deuxième barque de Chéops », al-Shurûq, 21 mars ; Mahmûd ‘Abd al-Bâqî, « Le GEM réceptionne 35 pièces en bois appartenant à la deuxième barque de Chéops », Vetogate, 21 mars ; Sanâ’ Fârûq, « Le GEM réceptionne 35 pièces en bois appartenant à la deuxième barque de Chéops », Watanî, 21 mars). - - Vendredi 22 mars 2019 The Ancient Egypt galleries at the Bolton Museum were inaugurated in September 2018 by Irish Margaret MOUNTFORD and leading Egyptology Professor Joann FLETCHER. It has welcomed 135,000 visitors since September 2018, according to the Bolton Council. The ancient Egypt gallery was an exceptional collaboration coordinated by Leach Studio, its client Bolton Council and its main contractor Willmott Dixon. The nominated gallery’s display of 2,000 ancient Egyptian artifacts tells the comprehensive story of the pieces including who used them, where they were initially discovered, and their history before arriving at the Bolton Museum. The artifacts are showcased interactively through audiovisuals, graphic designs and more. The newly launched gallery exhibits the iconic burial chamber of Thutmose III in fullsize reproduction. The Bolton’s Egyptology collection also includes the oldest mummification sample in the world. Leach Studio noted that it designed the gallery aiming to portray the studio’s significant commitment to the world of the pharaohs and the pyramids as it is known for housing important ancient Egyptian artifacts. The Bolton Council, local authority of the Metropolitan borough of Bolton in Greater Manchester, England, announced that the Bolton Museum in the UK has been shortlisted in this year’s Permanent Exhibition category at the 17th annual Museum + Heritage Awards, along with its partner Leach Studio. The award celebrates sensational initiatives by museums and galleries in the UK and overseas. The 17th Museum + Heritage Awards considers any museum — large or small — that houses valuable heritage. Counselor John BYRNE, Executive Cabinet member for Culture, expressed his happiness with the nomination, commending the museum’s groundbreaking record since its latest launch, the Bolton Council reported. BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 The winners will be revealed on Wednesday, 15 May. (Mira Maged, “Bolton’s Egypt gallery nominated for UK National Award”, Egypt Independent, March 22, 2019). - - Samedi 23 mars 2019 L’ambassadeur d’Égypte à Berne, Hishâm Sayf al-Dîn, a annoncé la récupération de deux pièces archéologiques égyptiennes volées en Suisse. Le superviseur général du Département des antiquités restituées, Sha‘bân ‘Abd al-Gawwâd, a précisé qu’il s’agit d’une statue en bois de la déesse Bastet et d’une statue en granit rose représentant le dieu Horus. 124 Mars 2019 Governor of Aswân Ahmad Ibrâhîm, Deputy of Kom Ombo Muhammad Sâlim, and a number of the project’s officials and employees. The project was funded by a US aid to Egypt that reached $ 8.8 million. The project is one of the most important projects implemented by the US Agency for the conservation of Egyptian Antiquities. Cette restitution vient couronner des efforts intensifs déployés depuis mars 2017. (Ahmad Mansûr, « Deux statues d’Horus et de Bastet restituées par la Suisse », al-Yawm alSâbi‘, 23 mars 2019. Voir également Islâm ‘Abd al-Ma‘bûd, « L’ambassade d’Égypte en Suisse récupère deux pièces de Bastet et d’Horus », al-Shurûq, 23 mars ; Samar Nasr, « L’ambassadeur d’Égypte à Berne se félicite pour la restitution de deux pièces antiques », al-Ahrâm, 23 mars ; Radwa Hâshim, « L’ambassade d’Égypte en Suisse récupère deux pièces archéologiques », al-Watan, 23 mars ; Kâmilyâ ‘Atrîs, « L’Égypte récupère deux pièces archéologiques volées en Suisse », Ruz al-Yûsuf, 23 mars ; ‘Alâ’ alMinyâwî, « L’Égypte récupère deux pièces archéologiques de Suisse », Sada al-Balad, 23 mars ; Imân Shawqî, « L’ambassade d’Égypte à Berne réussit à récupérer deux pièces archéologiques volées », Watanî, 23 mars). - - Lundi 25 mars 2019 Minister of Antiquities Khâlid al-‘Inânî inaugurated on March 25 a project to reduce underground water in Kom Ombo Temple. The project’s launching was attended by President of the US Agency for International Development (USAID) Mark GREEN, Director of the US Agency for Development in Egypt Sherry MARLIN, Chargé d’affaires of the US Embassy in Egypt Thomas GOLD BERGO, BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 For his part, al-‘Inânî stated that the USAID is an important partner in protecting Egypt’s culture and heritage and preserving the unique heritage owned by all humanity. al‘Inânî further explained that the agency participated in 40 projects through funding $10 million over the course of 25 years in several archaeological areas, most importantly in Gîza, Idfû Temple and Karnak Temple. al-‘Inânî clarified that the USAID participated in funding the withdrawal of groundwater from the Temple of Kom Ombo and the area of Kom al-Shuqâfa in Alexandria, adding that the cost of the project to withdraw groundwater in Kom Ombo alone amounted to $8.8 million. “Over the course of our project, we have been able to find many discoveries which will be exhibited in several museums, most notably the Egyptian Museum,” said al-‘Inânî. "The agency is not only working on the project to reduce groundwater, but there are many similar projects held in all governorates by the agency, and our goal is to preserve the heritage and monuments because we know that it is the catalyst for tourism in Egypt,” Sherry MARLIN, director of the USAID in Egypt said. (Mustafa Marie, “al-‘Inânî inaugurates project to reduce groundwater in Kom Ombo Temple”, Egypt Today, March 25, 2019. Voir également Mahmûd al-Mullâ, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie inaugure le projet visant à baisser le niveau des eaux souterraines sous le temple de Kom Ombo », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 25 mars ; Ahmad Mansûr, « L’USAID débourse 9 millions dollars pour baisser le niveau des eaux souterraines sous le temple de Kom Ombo », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 25 mars ; ‘Alâ’ alMinyâwî, « L’USAID sauve le temple de Kom Ombo de la hausse du niveau des eaux souterraines », Sada al-Balad, 25 mars; 125 Mars 2019 Muhammad al-Aswânî, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie inaugure le projet visant à baisser le niveau des eaux souterraines sous le temple de Kom Ombo », Watanî, 25 mars). - - L’adjoint au ministre de l’Archéologie pour les affaires architecturales, Hishâm Samîr, a assisté à la XIVe réunion de la commission égypto-omanaise, tenue au Sultanat d’Oman. Durant deux jours, les participants ont examiné le renforcement de la coopération bilatérale entre le ministère égyptien de l’Archéologie et le ministère omanais du Patrimoine et de la Culture. Les deux parties ont convenu de la nécessité d’organiser des stages de formation pour les archéologues et les restaurateurs, des ateliers et des tables rondes, afin de rehausser le niveau des responsables concernés. Un accord a été conclu en vue d’intensifier les échanges d’expertise dans le domaine des fouilles archéologiques, de la restauration et de la préservation du patrimoine, et de la lutte contre le trafic illicite des biens culturels entre les deux États. (Samar al-Naggâr, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie participe à la commission égypto-omanaise, tenue au Sultanat d’Oman », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 25 mars 2019. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie participe aux travaux de la commission égypto-omanaise », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 25 mars ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Échange d’expertises avec le Sultanat d’Oman », Sada al-Balad, 25 mars). - - French capital, Paris. The exhibition will continue until September 15, Antiquities Minister Khâlid al-‘Inânî said. The number of visitors reached nearly 15,000 during the past 48 hours, he added. al-‘Inânî told al-Masrî al-Yawm that the exhibition promotes Egyptian monuments and tourism industry — an achievement much better than any material return. al-‘Inânî called on the French people to visit Egypt to enjoy seeing thousands of artifacts in Egyptian museums. He also extended an invitation for the French to see the treasures of Egyptian King Tutankhamun exhibited at the Grand Egyptian Museum due to open in late 2020. (Mira Maged, “200,000 tickets sold for Paris King Tut’s exhibition: minister”, Egypt Independent, March 25, 2019. Voir également ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « 5 000 visiteurs de l’exposition de Toutankhamon durant les premières heures d’ouverture », Sada al-Balad, 23 mars ; Muhammad ‘Abd alMu‘tî, « 180 000 billets vendus pour l’exposition de Toutankhamon à Paris », alAhrâm, 24 mars). - - Mardi 26 mars 2019 A group of researchers have discovered a sunken boat of a type first described by ancient Greek historian HERODOTUS almost 2,500 years ago, off the coast of Alexandria among 70 other shipwrecks found while investigating the sunken ruins of ancient port city Thonis-Heracleion, Live Science reported. This port city was flooded and sank into the Mediterranean near the end of the second century BC. The city was rediscovered by maritime archaeologist Franck GODDIO alongside his team in 2000. They have since unearthed the remains of an ancient temple, statues, golden coins, and some 70 sunken ships. 200,000 tickets have been sold for the King Tutankhamun exhibition currently held in the BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 HERODOTUS visited Egypt 450 BC, recorded a detailed description for an unusual boat type called “Baris”. He wrote that it contained a 126 Mars 2019 single wheel, papyrus sails and wooden boards made of acacia trees. “HERODOTUS describes the boats as having long internal ribs. Nobody really knew what that meant,” Damian ROBINSON, director of the Oxford Center for Maritime Archaeology, told The Guardian. “That structure’s never been seen archaeologically before. Then we discovered this form of construction on this particular boat and it absolutely is what HERODOTUS has been saying.” (Mira Maged, “Boat described by HERODOTUS 2,500 years ago found in Alexandria”, Egypt Independent, March 26, 2019. Voir également Amal al-Gayyâr, « Découverte de 72 bateaux submergés à Alexandrie », al-Ahrâm, 19 mars ; Ragab Ramadân, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie s’apprête à enregistrer 5 navires de guerre submergés », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 29 mars). - - - - The Misr Insurance Company has signed an insurance coverage contract worth US$900 million with the Supreme Council of Antiquities, alongside other companies organizing the tours for King Tutankhamun’s properties to be exhibited around the world. al-Bursa News reported that the insurance will cover the Pharaoh’s artifacts in preparation for any risks during the tour, such as fire threats, flight turbulence while the belongings are on board and other possible dangers. The insurance comes as Minister of Antiquities Khâlid al-‘Inânî and the French Minister of Culture, Franck RIESTER launched the exhibition ‘Tutankhamun, the treasure of the Pharaoh’. (Mira Maged, “Misr Insurance covers King Tutankhamun’s belongings with US$900m”, Egypt Independent, March 27, 2019). - - Mercredi 27 mars 2019 Les policiers d’Alexandrie ont repêché le cadavre d’un chauffeur, âgé de 30 ans, jeté dans un canal à l’entrée du village al-‘Abîd. Il avait trouvé la mort lors de fouilles clandestines effectuées dans le sous-sol d’une habitation. Ses complices (une mère de famille et quatre hommes) se sont débarrassés du cadavre et ont rebouché le trou, afin de dissimuler leur forfait. Après leur arrestation, ils ont tout avoué. (Muhammad al-Ashmûnî, « Un cadavre dans le canal », al-Masrî alYawm, 27 mars 2019. Voir également Muhammad ‘Alî, « Le cadavre d’un chauffeur conduit à l’arrestation d’une bande de pilleurs », al-Ahrâm, 27 mars). BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 À chaque fois que des pièces antiques égyptiennes voyagent, des craintes de destruction, de falsification des pièces ou encore de vol les accompagnent. Traverser l’Atlantique et arriver non seulement en France, mais en plus à Paris, en pleine manifestation des Gilets jaunes, a suscité des inquiétudes, en Égypte, concernant la tenue de l’exposition de Toutankhamon. « Pas le moindre souci sur nos antiquités », assure, depuis Paris, Elhami al-Zayyât, ancien président de l’Union égyptienne des Chambres du tourisme. Il explique que les autorités égyptiennes et françaises ont adopté un plan d’urgence, digne de celui d’un chef d’État, pour assurer Toutankhamon ainsi qu’une opération secrète de défense. 127 Mars 2019 « C’est comme déplacer un chef d’État, un président, de ville en ville », explique John NORMAN, directeur général d’IMG, la société américaine organisatrice de l’exposition, qui a pris la charge de cette tournée mondiale dans une dizaine de villes, et qui travaille dessus depuis plus de 5 ans. Depuis leur sortie d’Égypte jusqu’à leur arrivée à Paris après un séjour aux États-Unis et un vol au-dessus de l’Atlantique, les pièces exposées du trésor de Toutankhamon ont parcouru des milliers de kilomètres, et ce, dans le plus grand secret. Aucune date de voyage connue, aucun aéroport d’arrivée n’ont été divulgués. Soigneusement emballés et transportés dans une vingtaine de boîtes faites spécifiquement pour ce transport, ces trésors — soit 14 tonnes d’antiquités — ont été surveillés de près pendant tout le voyage effectué dans un Boeing. Des mesures spéciales ont été prises pour ne pas prendre le risque d’abîmer ces pièces attendues à Paris. « Les caisses ont été disposées loin des portes du centre de l’avion, car il fallait absolument que la température soit stable entre 20 et 22 degrés », explique Mathilde GOFFARD, responsable chez FedEx France. Une fois arrivé en France, le trésor a été chargé, sous haute sécurité, dans des camions avec traqueur GPS à bord, pour les suivre à chaque instant lors du trajet jusqu’à la Villette, situé au Nord-Est de Paris. Mais il a fallu attendre 48 heures avant d’ouvrir les caisses, pour vérifier que les pièces étaient en bon état et avaient eu le temps nécessaire pour BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 s’acclimater. « Pour monter l’exposition, il faut compter trois semaines », explique Helen JANSSEN, directrice des événements pour IMG à Paris. Ce travail d’installation de l’exposition était surveillé par deux experts égyptiens, les seuls autorisés à toucher les chefs-d’œuvre, aidés de deux autres qui veillent à la protection et à la préservation de ces objets. Dans le même contexte, la Villette a mis en place des contrôles de sécurité renforcés : inspections minutieuses des sacs, paquets, bagages à main avec l’interdiction des valises et sacs de grande contenance, également il a mis en place de personnel supplémentaire équipé pour adopter plus la sécurité à l’entrée des salles qui sont entraînées aux exercices d’évacuation. « À l’intérieur de la Villette, nous avons installé un coffre-fort qui est à peu près grand comme la tombe de Toutankhamon, dans lequel sont stockées les pièces avant d’être exposées dans leur vitrine », décrit son président, Didier FUSILLER, sur le site Internet de la Villette. La Grande Halle a presque changé toutes ses portes, soit 110, pour qu’elles soient en acier hyper-sécurisé. Les prix des assurances affichent des sommes affolantes, soit environ 880 millions d’euros, à la mesure de l’événement, dont le coût s’élève à un milliard de dollars. « C’est tout une aventure une exposition comme ça », conclut-il. Une aventure pour laquelle le ministère égyptien des Antiquités perçoit 5 millions de dollars par ville-étape et un pourcentage sur le nombre de visiteurs. (Nasma Réda, « Mission sous haute surveillance », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 27 mars 2019). - 128 Mars 2019 Jeudi 28 mars 2019 Visitors queuing in front of the gate Half a century after the success of the last exhibition of the treasures of the ancient Egyptian boy-king Tutankhamun to hit the French capital, a new exhibition, this time at the Grande Halle de la Villette rather than the Petit Palais, is displaying more than 150 treasured pieces from the tomb of the young Pharaoh to thousands of appreciative visitors to the exhibition in Paris. The mystery of the golden king has stirred up worldwide curiosity since the discovery of his tomb in 1922, and now the “Tutankhamun, the Treasures of the Pharaoh” exhibition in Paris is fascinating visitors yet again. It features 150 pieces, 60 of which have never before been seen outside Egypt, and its theatrical design and exhibition scenario helps to reconstruct the path of the king into the afterlife. The gate of the Villette exhibition ground was glittering with the name of Tutankhamun this week, while the Grande Halle’s galleries were transformed into an ancient Egyptian necropolis with dark walls and soft lighting. Giant screens showed films documenting the work of British archaeologist Howard CARTER in discovering the intact tomb of Tutankhamun and its treasures, taking visitors back in time to the early 20th century, with strains of oriental music filling the air in the display areas. Paris was seized by Egyptomania this week when the “Tutankhamun, the Treasures of the Pharaoh” exhibition opened for its second stop after opening in Los Angeles in the US last year. Covers of French magazines al-‘Inânî and RIESTER during the official opening Streets, shops, buses, the metro, the façade of buildings, hotels and restaurants were all plastered with posters of the symbolic golden coffin of the boy-king, one of the pieces in the exhibition, or of a gilded wooden statuette depicting the king riding a black leopard, or of the Ka, a wooden guardian statue with gilded head-dress and skirt and gold jewelry studded with colored precious stones. BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Before going into the exhibition, visitors enter an immersive environment that begins with an introductory film on a 180-degree screen meant to transport them to the Valley of the Kings on the west bank of the Nile at Luxor where Tutankhamun’s tomb was discovered. The camera sweeps across the mountainous and desert landscape. Groups of men studying maps, digging rocks, or sifting sand are shown. Visitors then enter the first room of the exhibition proper, where images, lighting and sound are used to create the impression of the imminent finds. During the nine-gallery exhibition that follows, guests pass through the six gates of the underworld as they travel with the king on 129 Mars 2019 his journey to eternity. Along the way, they encounter good-luck amulets, weapons meant to fight off demons, alabaster containers of oils that the ancient Egyptians believed enabled the king to see and hear in the underworld, and figurines of gods meant to guide and protect him. The second gallery is dedicated to the gods. It is here that one finds the most impressive pieces, including the king’s guardian, a powerful black-and-gold statue that has watched over the king’s sleep for nearly three millennia, and a delicate miniature sarcophagus that contained his embalmed viscera. Amulet Then comes the king’s rebirth, illustrated by an arch of light evoking the journey of the god Re from sunrise to zenith. This room presents the fabulous treasures found in the boy-king’s burial chamber, including bracelets, tiaras, amulets and ornaments in which gold and precious stones mingle. TECHNOLOGY: 3D scans of objects are shown on video screens on top of the display cases, so viewers can zoom in and spin objects on screen for an interactive experience. “There’s a lot more technology in this exhibition when it comes to being able to help tell the story. With these videos, visitors really get to see these objects in a way they have never seen them before,” John NORMAN, director of exhibitions of the IMG company that organized the show, told Al-Ahram Weekly. For the next six months, the Grande Halle de la Villette will display 150 magnificent objects from the collection that has captivated French audiences since its first tour there in the 1967, he said. Dramatically laid out in nine galleries, it relates the story of one of the most interesting and perplexing kings in ancient Egyptian history almost 3,300 years ago. Each section showcases the dazzling craftsmanship of ancient artisans that characterized the earlier Tutankhamun exhibition. NORMAN said the exhibition used multimedia displays to stimulate interest in the science related to archaeology. Visitors also learn how the scientific analysis of the boyking’s 3,000-year-old mummy had revealed new information about his health and lineage, as well as how cutting-edge archaeological tools were assisting in discovering tombs and analyzing existing ones in ways never before imagined. The penultimate part, using video and digital images, evokes the discovery and study of the mummy. The last room leaves visitors facing a colossus in stone representing the boy-king. The Aka statue The miniature coffin BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 The last galleries in the show focus on the discovery of the tomb itself and the history of Egyptian archaeology, along with new scientific analyses of the mummy. These are provided through a video table showing scan 130 Mars 2019 data of Tutankhamun’s mummy. The scans are from 2005, but advances in technology have made it possible to glean more information from them, including that Tutankhamun had a club foot and an impacted wisdom tooth. New DNA testing shows that the young king also suffered from malaria and had a badly broken left leg above the knee that pierced his skin. This likely resulted in the infection that caused his death. The exhibition takes visitors through the afterlife, visualizing it through objects from the tomb. It combines technology, music and animation in novel ways. “We have used a lot of technology in the exhibition,” NORMAN added, describing it as “a very theatrical experience”. He said that each gallery space had its own music to ground viewers in ancient Egypt and provide context for the exhibition. Egypt’s Minister of Antiquities Khâlid al‘Inânî, who officially inaugurated the exhibition along with French Minister of Culture Franck RIESTER, described the exhibition as an “appetizer” for French audiences to encourage them to travel to Egypt to admire the rest of the king’s collection in its final resting place at the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), due to open in 2020. “It is a message of peace and security from Egypt to the whole world,” al-‘Inânî said. He also highlighted the strong friendship between Egypt and France, adding that archaeology had always had a special place in the hearts of the French, who had contributed a lot to it over the last two centuries since French Egyptologist Jean-Francois CHAMPOLLION deciphered hieroglyphs in 1822. During his speech, al-‘Inânî highlighted the recent discoveries and inaugurations of archaeological projects carried out by the ministry last year. He also invited the French public to witness the announcement of three new discoveries within the next few months and to visit Egypt to see the transportation of the royal mummies from the Egyptian Museum in Tahrîr Square to the new Museum of Egyptian Civilization (NMEC) in the Cairo district of Fustât. BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Photo : Vincent NAGEOTTE Some 200,000 tickets have already been sold for the Paris exhibition, with 5,000 people visiting the exhibition on its first day and queuing outside la Villette. It is expected that the number of visitors to the Paris exhibition will reach one million people before it travels to its third stop in London. “The exhibition is soothing and most moving,” whispered Séverine, one of the firstday visitors to the exhibition. She said the darkness of the exhibition design provided “a beautiful atmosphere which brings out the gilding”. “What is impressive in this exhibition is seeing that almost everything is intact,” Séverine continued, fascinated, like fellow visitor Sylvain, with the figurine of Horus, one of the oldest Egyptian deities, and amazed by the details and materials used. “To know the techniques that they had at that time is just incredible,” he said. Sylvain had anticipated the crowds, and like his friends he had bought a ticket in November for the exhibition. Jean-Marie, at the exhibition with his children, had also bought tickets three months ago to be sure to be able to get in. He had good reason to be present on the first day, as he had also been half a century ago at the first Tutankhamun exhibition in Paris at the Petit Palais. “I visited the exhibition 50 years ago when I was ten years old, which is the current age of my daughter,” he said. In 1967, “the exhibition of the century” attracted more than 1.2 million visitors, a record never equaled. “I absolutely wanted to pass this on to my children because it is a great moment of 131 Mars 2019 emotion for me. It is of an absolute and timeless beauty,” Jean-Marie told the Weekly. Tutankhamun seduces all generations, however. “What is amazing is that there is gold everywhere. It is a precious material, and you get the impression that the ancient Egyptians had lots of it,” said one 13-year-old visitor. Jeanette, an 80-year-old visitor on the second day along with her two friends, was found in a corner of the exhibition crying. “We are very sad,” Jeanette told the Weekly. “Fifty-two years ago, when the Tutankhamun exhibition was first in Paris we came to visit it. We were then four friends, and now we are only three as our fourth friend passed away a few months ago. We were hesitant whether to buy tickets and go to the exhibition, but we decided to do so in order to make our fourth friend happy. But upon our arrival we could not stop crying as we see her all around us,” Jeanette concluded. (Nevine El-Aref, “Treasures of Tutankhamun opens in Paris”, Al-Ahram Weekly, March 28, 2019. Voir également ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Inauguration de l’exposition de Toutankhamon à Paris », Sada al-Balad, 21 mars ; Samar al-Naggâr, « Inauguration de l’exposition de Toutankhamon à Paris », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 22 mars ; Nasma Réda, « Toutankhamon fascine toujours », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 27 mars). - - Le ministère de l’Archéologie participe à l’Heure de la Terre, en éteignant l’éclairage extérieur de la citadelle de Saladin au Caire, entre 20h30 et 21h, le 30 mars prochain. Cette Journée internationale, organisée chaque BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 année le dernier samedi du mois de mars, consiste à couper les lumières non essentielles pour une durée d’une heure, afin de promouvoir l’économie d’électricité et, par conséquent, la réduction des émissions de gaz à effet de serre et la lutte contre le réchauffement climatique. (Ahmad Mansûr, « Pour participer à l’Heure de la Terre, le ministère de l’Archéologie éteint l’éclairage extérieur de la citadelle de Saladin », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 28 mars 2019. Voir également ‘Umar al-Mahdî, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie participe à l’Heure de la Terre », al-Ahrâm, 28 mars ; Radwa Hâshim, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie participe à l’Heure de la Terre », al-Watan, 28 mars ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie participe à l’Heure de la Terre », Sada al-Balad, 28 mars). - - An ancient port used to transport stones for the construction of temples and obelisks has been discovered in Egypt, according to the country’s Ministry of Antiquities. In a Facebook post Tuesday, the ministry said the main port, used to transport stone along the Nile River from the quarries of Gabal al-Silsila, was uncovered during an archaeological expedition excavating the ruins of Kom Ombo near Aswân. The port on the Nile’s west bank extends over 100 meters and lies about 200 meters 132 Mars 2019 from a large quarry, according to Mustafa Wazîrî, the secretary general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities. River silt and greenery were cleared from the area, revealing inscriptions and mechanisms for tying the boats. Silsila », al-Ahrâm, 26 mars ; Muhammad alAswânî, « Découverte d’un port antique ayant servi au transport des pierres des carrières de Gabal al-Silsila », Watanî, 26 mars ; Muhammad ‘Abd al-Mu‘tî, « Découverte d’un port antique pour transporter les pierres d’Aswân », al-Ahrâm, 27 mars). - - Vendredi 29 mars 2019 Excavation work carried out in Ramses II’s temple in Abydos, Suhâg, has uncovered a new temple palace belonging to the 19th Dynasty king. Gabal al-Silsila is an important source of sandstone in Egypt. ‘Abd al-Mun‘im Sa‘îd, director general of Aswân and Nubia Antiquities Council, said that it has been widely used from the 18th dynasty into the modern era. Stone used to build temples such as Karnak, Madînat Hâbû, Kom Ombo and Dandara was mostly cut in the area’s quarries, Sa‘îd said, according to the announcement. (CNN, “Egypt announces discovery of ancient port used by temple builders”, Egypt Independent, March 28, 2019. Voir également Samar al-Naggâr, « Découverte d’un port pour le transport des pierres des carrières de Gabal al-Silsila à travers le Nil », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 26 mars ; Ahmad Mansûr, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie exhume un port ayant servi au transport des pierres des carrières de Gabal al-Silsila à Aswân », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 26 mars ; Hamada Ba‘zaq, « Mise au jour du port principal pour le transport des pierres à Aswân», al-Shurûq, 26 mars ; Husâm Zaydân, « Découverte d’un port antique à Gabal alBIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 The discovery was made by the New York University mission, directed by Sâmih Iskandar. “It is a very important discovery which will change, for the first time, the plan of the temple more than 160 years since its discovery,” said Mustafa Wazîrî, secretary general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities. He describes the new discovery as “an important contribution to our understanding of the development of the temple palaces during the Ramesside period.” The location and layout of the palace exhibits a noteworthy parallel to the temple palace of Ramses II’s father Seti I in Abydos some 300 metres to the south. During the work of the mission around the temple to recover the architectural elements south of the temple, Iskandar told Ahram Online, the mission accidently stumbled upon a stone walkway at the south-western door of a temple. 133 Mars 2019 Samedi 30 mars 2019 This walkway led to an entrance of a palace building that contains the cartouches of Ramses II. He explained that the walls are built of limestone and mud brick, the floors are made of limestone, and the temple’s second hall has a sandstone column base and lintels with inscriptions of the king. Other fragments decorated with stars were found. Ayman al-‘Ashmâwî, head of the Ancient Egyptian Antiquities Department, stated that the temple foundation inscriptions have an extremely rare depiction of Ramses II’s cartouches. They appear on all four corners of the temple, showing Ramses II’s birth and throne names painted in a golden colour. They are surmounted with double feathers with a sun disk in between, and beneath them a decorative gold sign. (Nevine El-Aref, “New temple palace discovered at Ramses II’s temple in Upper Egypt’s Suhâg”, Ahram Online, March 29, 2019. Voir également Mustafa Marie, “Min. of antiquities announces discovery of Ramses II’s royal lobby”, Egypt Today, March 28; “Archaeologists unearth lobby of Temple of Ramses II”, Egypt Independent, March 29). - Ambassadors from 30 countries paid a visit to ‘Âbidîn Palace in downtown Cairo on Saturday, organised by the antiquities ministry. Among them were the ambassadors of Germany, France, Italy, the European Union, Cameroon, Belgium, Russia, Malta, Holland, Sweden, Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Hungary, Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Armenia, and South Korea. The visit came within the framework of the country’s policy to highlight its historical sites and landmarks. It also came within the series of trips to archaeological sites for ambassadors that the antiquities ministry is organising. Along the past two years the ministry has organised trips to St. Catherine, New Valley, Abû Simbil and other locations. Responding to the invitation of Minister of Antiquities Khâlid al-‘Inânî, Minister of Communications ‘Amr Tal‘at and Minister of Public Enterprises Hishâm Tawfîq also attended the tour. During the tour, all the invitees were impressed with the beauty of the palace and BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 134 Mars 2019 its exquisite architecture and distinguished interior decorations and design, as well as the priceless furniture, artefacts and antiques on display within its halls, which reflect a very important period in Egypt’s history. coiffeur en possession de 79 pièces antiques à Minyâ », al-Ahrâm, 31 mars 2019). - - ‘Âbidîn Palace was designed by a number of architectures under the supervision of French architect Lion ROSSO. It has a neoclassic architectural style and was built in 1863. It was the palace of Egypt’s monarchs from then until 1952. The visit on Saturday is the first in a series of visits to presidential palaces, in an attempt to shed more light on the country’s royal heritage in modern Egyptian history, which is not less valuable than the country’s ancient, Islamic, and Coptic heritage. During the visit, al-‘Inânî said that three new discoveries will be announced soon, and that there will be inaugurations of a number of archaeological projects in different governorates. Tal‘at also delivered a lecture about ‘Âbidîn Palace and the history of the Muhammad ‘Alî dynasty. (Nevine El-Aref, “30 ambassadors to Egypt visit Cairo’s ‘Âbidîn Palace”, Ahram Online, March 30, 2019). - - Dimanche 31 mars 2019 Les forces de sécurité de Minyâ ont arrêté un coiffeur pour trafic et recel d’antiquités. La perquisition de son domicile a permis de saisir 79 pièces archéologiques : 24 statues de différentes tailles et 55 pièces de monnaies remontant à différentes époques. L’accusé est passé aux aveux. Une enquête criminelle est ouverte. (Mahmûd Fu’âd, « Arrestation d’un BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Le ministre de l’Archéologie, Dr Khâlid al‘Inânî, a nommé Dr Hânî al-Tayyib au poste de superviseur du Bureau scientifique du ministre de l’Archéologie, en remplacement du Dr Huda Khalîfa. Soulignons qu’al-Tayyib a été depuis 1999 inspecteur de la zone archéologique de Saqqâra, avant de devenir directeur général des antiquités de Saqqâra en 2019. Il a été choisi pour ce nouveau poste compte tenu de son expérience dans ce domaine. Dr al-Tayyib est titulaire d’une thèse d’égyptologie de l’université du Caire. Il a publié de nombreuses recherches dans des périodiques scientifiques internationales. Il a contribué à de nombreuses missions de fouilles archéologiques. Il a également donné une série de conférences au British Museum et dans de nombreux congrès internationaux. (Ahmad Mansûr, « Hânî al-Tayyib nommé superviseur du Bureau scientifique du ministre de l’Archéologie », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 31 mars 2019. Voir également ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « alTayyib nommé superviseur du Bureau scientifique du ministre de l’Archéologie », Sada al-Balad, 31 mars ; ‘Umar al-Mahdî, « Hânî al-Tayyib remplace Huda Khalîfa », alAhrâm, 31 mars ; Kâmilyâ ‘Atrîs, « Nomination de Hânî al-Tayyib au poste de superviseur du Bureau scientifique du ministre de l’Archéologie », Ruz al-Yûsuf, 31 mars). 135 IV – AVRIL 2019 Lundi 1er avril 2019 During excavation work carried out at the Qwisnâ quarries in al-Munûfiyya, an Egyptian archaeological mission stumbled upon a limestone sarcophagus containing two mummies. Mostafa Wazîrî, secretary-general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, said that the sarcophagus is two metres tall and 60cm wide and is in good condition. Gold scarab A collection of clay pots, amphorae, plates, amulets and scarabs carved in gold and faience were also found, along with bronze coins from the Ptolemaic era. Statuettes depicting three of the four sons of Horus Three damaged statuettes depicting three of the four sons of the god Horus were also found. The two mummies inside are on top of each other, and are in poor condition. The sarcophagus, which has some gilded fragments, and its contents have been sent to Kafr al-Shaykh storage gallery for restoration. BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 The amulets were transported to the Egyptian Museum in Tahrîr for display. (Nevine El-Aref, “Limestone sarcophagus containing two mummies discovered in al-Munûfiyya quarry”, Ahram Online, April 1st, 2019. Voir également Samar al-Naggâr, « Découverte à Qwisnâ d’un sarcophage en calcaire contenant une momie », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 1er avril ; Ahmad Mansûr, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie annonce la découverte d’un sarcophage en calcaire à Qwisnâ », al-Yawm 136 Avril 2019 al-Sâbi‘, 1er avril ; “A limestone sarcophagus uncovered in al-Munûfiyya”, Egypt Today, April 1st ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Découverte à Qwisnâ d’un sarcophage en calcaire contenant une momie », Sada al-Balad, 1er avril ; Liliane Nabîl, « Découverte à Qwisnâ d’un sarcophage en calcaire contenant une momie », Watanî, 1er avril ; “Pharaonic limestone coffin uncovered in al-Munûfiyya governorate”, Egypt Independent, April 1st; Muhammad ‘Abd al-Mu‘tî, « Mise au jour d’un sarcophage contenant une momie à Qwisnâ », al-Ahrâm, 2 avril ; Doaa Elhami, « Du Delta à la Haute-Égypte, encore des trouvailles », AlAhram Hebdo du 17 avril). - - Yûsuf Ragab, âgé de 13 ans, a trouvé la mort suite à l’effondrement d’un puits au cours des fouilles archéologiques clandestines effectuées dans une zone montagneuse sur la route al-Khârga/Asyût. L’incident a fait également quatre blessés : Ahmad Hammâd, âgé de 33 ans ; ‘Abd al-Hakîm ‘Abd al-Hâdî, 33 ans ; Ahmad Ragab, 24 ans ; et Ahmad Muhammad, 35 ans. Le cadavre et les quatre blessés ont été transférés à l’hôpital public d’al-Khârga. Une enquête criminelle a été ouverte. (Ahmad ‘Abd al-Salâm, « 1 mort et 4 blessés lors de fouilles illicites dans la Nouvelle-Vallée », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 1er avril 2019). - Saqqâra, and has also discovered the name of the queen to whom a pyramid complex in the area belonged. (…) The mission, in cooperation with an international team of Egyptologists, has also discovered an ancient Egyptian queen who lived during the late Fifth Dynasty in the same pyramid complex. The mission found the name of queen Setibhor, who was not known before from ancient sources, engraved on a column in the south part of the until-now anonymous pyramid complex. The complex is located by the pyramid of king Djedkare in south Saqqâra, and the identity of its owner was a puzzle that Egyptologists have been trying to solve for decades. The name and titles of the owner of this unique monument was found on the column made of red granite in the newly uncovered portico of the queen’s complex. The inscription was carved in sunken relief in a rectangle on the shaft of the column, and it reads: “The one who sees Horus and Seth, the great one of the hetes sceptre, the great of praise, king’s wife, his beloved Setibhor.” - Mardi 2 avril 2019 Photo courtesy of the Ministry of Antiquities An Egyptian archaeological mission has discovered the tomb of a Fifth Dynasty dignitary named Khuwy during an excavation and documentation survey carried out in south BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 The entrance of the tomb The column and the limestone blocks and fragments bearing relief decoration from the temple of the queen were found during exploration and documentation work in the pyramid complex of king Djedkare. 137 Avril 2019 The pyramid complex of queen Setibhor represents one of the earliest pyramids in south Saqqâra, built at the end of the Fifth Dynasty, and it is the largest pyramid complex built for a queen during the Old Kingdom. Moreover, her funerary temple incorporated architectural elements and chambers that were otherwise reserved for the kings of the Old Kingdom only. The large size of the pyramid complex of queen Setibhor and her title of queen may indicate her direct intervention in helping her husband, king Djedkare, ascend the throne of Egypt at the end of the Fifth Dynasty. It seems that Djedkare wanted to honour his wife by constructing her a huge pyramid complex, with many unusual features, including palmiform granite columns, which constitute an architectural element so far known only in the pyramid complexes of kings and not used in the temples of the queens during the Old Kingdom period. The area where the tomb was uncovered. Photo courtesy of the Ministry of Antiquities Muhammad Migâhid, head of the archaeological mission, said that the mission has also completed the architectural restoration and consolidation of the substructure of the king’s pyramid, which had not been subjected to any restoration work before. The work of consolidation, restoration and reconstruction of the inner walls of the pyramid represented a vital task for the mission, he said. The mission is focused on the pyramid complexes of Djedkare and his Setibhor and their associated cemeteries, hoping to obtain more information on the end of the Fifth BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Dynasty and the beginning of the Sixth Dynasty. This period witnessed a radical transformation in ancient Egyptian ideology and religious beliefs, such as the appearance of the Pyramid Texts for the first time inside the pyramid of king Unas, the successor of Djedkare, and also the end of the practice of constructing sun temples, which all the Fifth Dynasty predecessors of Djedkare had done. (Nevine El-Aref, “Fifth Dynasty tomb and name of a new queen discovered at Saqqâra”, Ahram Online, April 2, 2019. Voir également “Retaining Detailed Reliefs, Fifth Dynasty Tomb Uncovered in Saqqâra”, Egyptian Streets, April 2). - - “Public visits to ‘Âbidîn Palace will take place under specific restrictions and regulations. There will be allowed only a limited number of visitors as the palace houses many fragile antiquities,” Secretary General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities Mustafa Wazîrî said during his telephone interview on “Hadrat al-Muwâtin” (The Citizen) TV program on “al-Hadath al-Yawm” Channel. Wazîrî clarified that visits to the palace should be controlled in order to protect it. The Ministry of Antiquities organized a visit to Cairo’s ‘Âbidîn Palace for a group of ambassadors from 30 countries including Germany, France, Italy, Cameroon, Belgium, and other European Union member countries among others. The ambassadors were invited by Antiquities Minister Khâlid al-‘Inânî. 138 Avril 2019 Wazîrî referred to the ambassadors’ admiration for the palace’s beautiful and significant architecture and decoration. He added that ‘Âbidîn was the Royal Headquarters in winter. Wazîrî pointed out that Minister al-‘Inânî has begun collaboration with tourism companies to promote the palace on a larger scale. ‘Âbidîn Place was designed by Egyptian, Turkish, French and Italian architects in 1863. The palace has undergone intense renovation and restoration after being severely damaged by the powerful earthquake of 1992. Wazîrî acknowledged that the palace, furnished and decorated with prominent artifacts, houses 550 rooms. The Palace museum is open every weekday except Friday from 9 am to 10 pm. The ticket’s price is 10 LE for students and 20 LE for other visitors. (Mira Meged, “Visits to ‘Âbidîn Palace will be restricted: official”, Egypt Independent, April 2, 2019). - Director of the Egyptian Museum in Tahrîr Sabâh ‘Abd al-Râziq, said that the Roman pieces will be displayed for the first time; as they were stored in the museum’s store rooms. The marble bottle was one of the antiquities found in the Muntazah Palace in Alexandria. The marble bottle is characterized by its exquisite artistic style; with two handles decorated with two lion heads. On both sides, there are two medallion-like designs portraying Emperor Trajan on the right, while the left side displays a half-portrait of Emperor Hadrian. On both medals, there is what appears as golden remains. Furthermore, the four coins are made of bronze, two of which depict Emperor Trajan and two depicting Emperor Hadrian; both wearing the laurel garland and military gears. (Mustafa Marie, “Egyptian Museum in Tahrîr presents distinguished Roman-era antiquities”, Egypt Today, April 2, 2019). - - - The Egyptian Museum in Tahrîr presents this week a round bottle made of marble and four bronze coins dating back to the Roman era. The Egyptian Museum presents the Roman era antiquities as part of its weekly tradition of highlighting distinguished pieces of antiques, spanning back to various civilizations. The Ministry of Antiquities announced that it has accepted the monetarily support presented by the Ministry of Tourism, estimated at LE 13 million, to carry out the cleaning work of al-Mu‘izz Street and its monuments. The remarkable Roman-era bottle made of marble BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 al-Mu‘izz St. is one of the oldest streets in the world, spanning back to more than a thousand years, and was built during the Fatimid state of Egypt. The ancient street is considered the most crowded street in Cairo; 139 Avril 2019 hosting great Islamic monuments, and is also considered the largest street in Fatimid Cairo. Palace, qui se tient dans la salle des miroirs du sérail de la résidence, jusqu’au 21 avril. al-Mu‘izz St. stretches from Bâb al-Futûh in the north to Bâb Zuwayla in the south. In 1997, the national government carried out extensive renovations to the historical buildings, modern buildings, paving, and sewerage to turn the street into an "open-air museum". « Les 27 pièces de l’exposition du sérail de la résidence ont été sélectionnées parmi une centaine d’autres qui sont conservées dans les dépôts du musée », souligne Walâ’ Badawî, directeur du palais Manyal. On April 24, 2008, al-Mu‘izz Street was rededicated as a pedestrian only zone between 8:00 am and 11:00 pm; cargo traffic will be allowed outside of these hours. The northern part of the street extends from the al-Hâkim Mosque in the north to the Spice Market at al-Azhar Street and includes the antiques markets section, al-Aqmar Mosque (one of the few extant Fatimid mosques), the Qalâwwûn complex, and several well preserved medieval mansions and palaces. "Ma Dame", c’est le titre de l’exposition mettant en valeur des objets sélectionnés pour leur beauté et leur finesse. À l’image de deux princesses alides, icônes de beauté. On peut y découvrir les photos de ces deux belles princesses, celle de la Française Alice, épouse du prince Muhammad ‘Alî Tawfîq, propriétaire du palais Manyal, et celle de la princesse Fatma Nasl Chah, épouse du prince Muhammad ‘Abd al-Mun‘im, le neveu du propriétaire du palais. The southern part extends from the Ghûriyya complex to the Bâb Zuwayla and includes the magnificent Tent Market in the alGamâliyya district. (Mustafa Marie, “Min. of Tourism support al-Mu‘izz St. with LE 13 in renovations”, Egypt Today, April 2, 2019. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie accepte la contribution du ministère du Tourisme au nettoyage de la rue al-Mu‘izz », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 2 avril). - - Mercredi 3 avril 2019 La princesse Alice. Vue générale de l’exposition Miroirs, pantoufles, flacons à khôl, boucles de ceinture, flacon de parfum en argent, ainsi que des photos composent l’actuelle exposition temporaire du musée du Manyal BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 « Le palais Manyal a vu les noces du prince Tawfîq et de la princesse Alice. J’ai donc préféré réunir leurs photos dans le lieu privé du palais, le sérail de la résidence », souligne Hadîr ‘Âdil, chef du département des expositions permanentes au musée Manyal. La princesse Alice est peinte, coiffée d’un chapeau avec un foulard enveloppant son cou. « Une tenue française par excellence », reprend ‘Âdil. On y voit aussi une photo représentant la princesse Fatma Nasl Chah, tenant sur ses genoux son fils, le prince ‘Abbâs Hilmî, l’actuel directeur de gestion principal du groupe Concorde en Égypte. Le palais 140 Avril 2019 avait été ouvert pour le nouveau couple pour y faire leur cortège des noces. Le choix de présenter les deux princesses à l’exposition n’est pas un hasard. « Leurs vies se ressemblent. Elles ont vécu des événements très similaires. Toutes deux icônes de beauté, elles ont célébré leurs noces au même endroit et ont endossé le rôle de reine d’Égypte pendant un temps. Suite à l’abdication du roi Fârûq, père d’Ahmad Fu’âd, âgé de 6 mois, leurs époux, Muhammad ‘Alî Tawfîq et Muhammad ‘Abd al-Mun‘im, sont alors devenus tuteurs du trône, après le déclenchement de la Révolution de 1952. Évident donc de les regrouper dans une seule exposition », explique ‘Âdil. L’exposition reflète surtout la finesse des objets et bijoux de la famille, comme ces 15 boîtes à collyre en argent, ornées de pierres précieuses, d’agate et de corail. « Le musée possède dans ses dépôts près d’une soixantaine de boîtes à collyre, on a choisi ici les plus belles », reprend ‘Âdil. Le visiteur peut aussi admirer, lors de sa visite de l’exposition, des flacons de parfum en argent appelés « qomqoms », fabriqués spécialement pour les femmes de la famille alide. La plupart de ces qomqoms sont en forme de poirier, dont le couvercle représentant une bouche de serpent fait office de couvercle. Parmi les chefs-d’œuvre de l’exposition, deux boucles de ceintures se remarquent. « Elles étaient portées pendant les festivités officielles », explique la responsable. La première, en argent doré, est ornée de motifs islamiques avec des chaînes dorées, la deuxième prend la forme d’un papillon. Les deux sont incrustées de pierres précieuses. Enfin, les miroirs occupent une place particulière dans l’exposition. Ils se caractérisent par leurs fins ornements faits de motifs islamiques argentés. Le premier est ovale alors que le deuxième est rectangulaire, encadré par une étoffe de velours violet. Y sont rencontrées aussi des pantoufles fabriquées de velours brodé de motifs islamiques et des perles. BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Cette salle renferme, outre la photo du prince Muhammad ‘Alî Tawfîq, le buste en marbre du khédive Ismâ‘îl et les peintures de tous les sultans ottomans. Par cette exposition, l’on apprend à connaître les femmes de cette famille à travers des objets privés, voire intimes. (Doaa Elhami, « La finesse des princesses alides », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 3 avril 2019). - - al-Hattâba bordé par la citadelle Bien que sa valeur archéologique, historique et artisanale soit presque égale à celle de la rue al-Mu‘izz, le site al-Hattâba, situé dans le quartier al-Khalîfa, dans Le Caire historique, est marginalisé. Pourtant, alHattâba, dont la superficie totale atteint 38 500 m2, fait partie de l’enceinte archéologique de la Citadelle Salâh al-Dîn, une situation qui redouble donc l’importance et l’urgence de sa préservation. L’ONG Al-Fekr Al-Omrani pour l’architecture, l’urbanisme et l’artisanat patrimoniaux (Mugawra), en partenariat avec le secteur des antiquités islamiques et coptes du ministère des Antiquités, ont effectué une étude pour sauver al-Hattâba, et le transformer en un site touristique attrayant. « L’objectif vise à réveiller la conscience patrimoniale de la communauté locale et travailler sur la préservation des monuments restaurés du quartier al-Khalîfa », souligne Muhammad ‘Abd al-‘Azîz, directeur général du Caire historique auprès du ministère des Antiquités. Il ajoute que « les membres de l’ONG AlFekr Al-Omrani ont une bonne expérience dans le développement des sites patrimoniaux détériorés. Ils ont déjà restauré la mosquée de 141 Avril 2019 l’imâm al-Shâfi‘î, les dômes d’al-Sayyida Ruqayya, petite-fille du prophète Muhammad, celui de sa tante paternelle ‘Âtiqa, et d’alGa‘farî, l’un des amis du prophète, ainsi que la coupole de Shagarat al-Durr (1250), dernière sultane ayyoubide. Et tout ce travail a été fait en intégrant la communauté locale », souligne ‘Abd al-‘Azîz. La région d’al-Hattâba et ses monuments seront soumis à des fouilles archéologiques et à une restauration avant le commencement de l’étude de réaménagement. al-Hattâba, créé pendant l’époque ayyoubide, tire son nom du fait que le quartier fournissait la Citadelle en bois de chauffage (hatab), ainsi que les reliefs et motifs ornementaux fabriqués en bois. Ses monuments remontent aux époques mamelouke et ottomane. De l’époque mamelouke demeurent aujourd’hui le mausolée al-Shurafa (les nobles, 1494), Khânqa Nizâm al-Dîn (1356), la mosquée et le complexe de Mangak al-Yûsufî (1349), le bassin de l’émir Shaykû, et le dôme de Yûnis al-Dawadâr construit en 1381. Alors que parmi les édifices érigés au cours de l’époque ottomane, on trouve encore la fontaine ‘Abd al-Rahmân Katkhuda qui date de 1744. La plupart des monuments mamelouks se trouvent dans la rue Bâb alWadâ‘ (la porte d’adieu). « Ceci indique que les habitants du Caire des époques ayyoubide et mamelouke n’avaient que ce chemin pour sortir de la capitale », explique ‘Abd al-‘Azîz. Plusieurs activités artisanales d’une importance majeure y sont encore exercées aujourd’hui. al-Hattâba est connue pour la menuiserie, avec toutes ses productions comme le mobilier orné de motifs floraux, les tableaux et les boîtes incrustées de coquillages. Des pièces d’al-Khiyâmiyya, type de tissu brodé, y sont aussi toujours confectionnées. Avec ses ruelles montantes, al-Hattâba possède un paysage panoramique exceptionnel et attire toujours de nombreux visiteurs, comme des peintres et des professeurs des beaux-arts venus faire découvrir la richesse des lieux à leurs élèves. BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 « al-Hattâba est un excellent exemple patrimonial pour les étudiants », explique ‘Abd al-‘Azîz al-Gindî, professeur d’architecture à la faculté des beaux-arts de l’Université de Hilwân. Pour lui, la position des maisons avec les arbres représente un tableau artistique inspirant. « Je suis attirée par les portes des maisons et leurs cadres variés », souligne Menna, étudiante en pleine création d’un tableau. « Notre plan de développement de la région al-Hattâba est basé sur toutes ces ressources historiques, archéologiques, humaines et économiques qui représentent un patrimoine matériel et immatériel riche. Un circuit touristique sera donc imaginé autour de ce trésor patrimonial », explique l’ingénieur Hiba Nigm, membre de l’ONG Mugawra, et responsable de l’étude. al-Hattâba se situe au nord de la Citadelle devant al-Bâb al-Gadîd (la Nouvelle Porte), qui sera le point de départ du circuit touristique proposé. Celui-ci débutera dans une longue rue de près de 2 km, parallèle à la muraille de la Citadelle. Selon le projet, des bazars y seront ouverts où seront vendues les œuvres artisanales produites par les habitants d’alHattâba. « C’est tout un complexe artisanal où les touristes auront le droit de participer à la fabrication des pièces, avant de les acheter », explique Nigm, ajoutant que cette rue « touristique » renfermera aussi un espace culturel. La visite se poursuivra avec la découverte du mausolée d’al-Shurafa (nobles). « Ce bâtiment sera restauré et transformé en centre pour l’enseignement des conceptions décoratives inspirées de la région », explique Nigm. Le circuit mènera ensuite le visiteur vers un endroit nommé al-Sahara (le désert). D’après le plan général, dans cet espace vide sera aménagé un complexe touristique avec des kiosques artisanaux, des ateliers d’artisans et des lieux pour accueillir des concerts. À proximité d’al-Sahara se trouve le jardin d’alHattâba, longtemps recouvert par des tas d’ordures. « L’année dernière, la compagnie Chipsy Égypte a financé la transformation de 142 Avril 2019 cet espace en jardin qui sert aujourd’hui de lieu de détente pour les habitants d’alHattâba », explique l’architecte Farah, membre de l’ONG. Sur les hauteurs d’al-Hattâba se trouve alKhânqa al-Nizâmiyya, où vivaient les soufis. « Dressée sur l’endroit le plus élevé de cette zone, la Khânqâ al-Nizâmiyya offrira une vue panoramique sur tout Le Caire historique », souligne Nigm, précisant qu’un restaurant y sera installé. Néanmoins, la réalisation de ce projet sera précédée de fouilles archéologiques et de la restauration des maisons et d’al-Khânqâ. Le circuit conduira ensuite à la route de Bâb al-Wadâ‘ menant aux édifices mamelouks qui seront transformés en musées racontant l’histoire d’al-Hattâba et plus largement du Caire historique. Le dernier arrêt de ce circuit sera au centre de services, un lieu aux multiples fonctions. Il y aura un département pour servir les touristes, un autre consacré aux activités des femmes de la région et un troisième qui abritera un centre sportif pour les jeunes. Ce projet vise à servir à la fois les touristes et les visiteurs d’al-Hattâba, mais aussi la communauté locale, notamment les femmes et les artisans. promenade architecturale sur l’évolution des mausolées du Caire depuis l’arrivée de ‘Amr Ibn al-‘Âs, en 641 jusqu’à la fin de l’époque ottomane en 1922, sera proposée. Enfin, le complexe de Mangak al-Yûsufî, qui se compose d’une mosquée, d’un réservoir, d’une tikiyya et d’une cour, sera transformé en musée dédié aux activités des productions artisanales d’al-Hattâba et à leur évolution. (Doaa Elhami, « al-Hattâba, un projet pour attirer les touristes », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 3 avril 2019). - - Portrait d’une femme maquillée, brodé sur un tissu 26 pièces composent l’exposition sur les objets liés à la cosmétique de la femme à l’époque copte. Jusqu’au 20 avril, une collection importante d’un point de vue archéologique et esthétique est à découvrir au musée Copte. Le visiteur y trouve des miroirs, des peignes, des bijoux avec leurs coffrets, des flacons de khôl et bien d’autres. Outre le circuit touristique réaménagé pour la visite de cette partie historique du Caire, quelques monuments seront transformés en musées. Dans l’espace de la fontaine Katkhuda, qui remonte à l’époque ottomane, on pourra découvrir l’histoire de l’eau depuis l’an 641, début de l’époque islamique en Égypte. Ce musée va, par exemple, exposer les photos des porteurs d’eau. Il y aura aussi les jarres et les récipients d’eau et leur évolution à travers les époques islamiques. Alors que le bassin de l’émir Shaykhû, de l’époque mamelouke, sera un musée consacré au pèlerinage. Localisé sur la route de Bâb alWadâ‘, il était utilisé par les pèlerins pour partir à La Mecque. Ce musée racontera l’histoire du voyage saint avec toutes ses préparations, ses festivités et ses rites. « Tous ces objets reflètent au mieux le type de cosmétiques qu’utilisait la femme pendant l’époque copte et ses pratiques », explique Hânî Zarîf, adjoint du musée Copte, qui attire l’attention sur un miroir en verre avec une manche en bois. C’est, selon lui, l’un des plus anciens miroirs du monde fabriqué en verre. « Au temps de l’ancienne Égypte, les miroirs étaient fabriqués en fer, en argent, et en or pour les gens aisés, parfois en bronze. Mais jamais en verre. D’où la rareté de ce miroir exposé, qui date peut-être du Ier siècle », explique Zarîf, ajoutant que c’était l’un des outils indispensables pour la beauté de la femme. Dans le dôme Yûnis al-Dawadâr, situé juste à côté du cimetière de Bâb al-Wazîr, une L’exposition comprend aussi trois peignes en bois décorés de cercles, symboles de BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 143 Avril 2019 l’infini dans la foi copte. Ces peignes ont été trouvés non seulement dans les vestiges des maisons, mais aussi dans les monastères. L’un des types des peignes exposés est, par exemple, visible sur une scène gravée sur un bloc de pierre. Il s’agit de deux dames dont l’une est assise devant un bassin où l’on donne un bain à son bébé. « C’est un culte religieux nommé al-tisht, signifiant le bassin, réalisé le 7e ou le 15e jour suivant la naissance de l’enfant. Le nouveau-né est emmené à l’église pour que le moine le baigne et le bénisse », explique Zarîf. Le peigne servait à coiffer l’enfant après son bain ou était utilisé par sa mère, pour qu’elle se coiffe pour la cérémonie. orné d’une coquille, « symbole de la résurrection et d’une nouvelle vie », souligne Zarîf. Ces bijoux étaient conservés dans des coffrets en bois incrustés d’ivoire. L’un de ces coffrets y est présenté. La matière incrustée forme des croix sur les côtés de la boîte et des motifs géométriques sur le couvercle. Parmi les pièces de l’exposition, le visiteur peut remarquer des flacons à khôl d’ivoire, dont la tête est en forme de coq, « qui symbolise le réveil, l’éveil pour la prière et les paroles de Dieu », explique Zarîf. L’un de ces flacons est orné de cercles qui, ensemble, forment des croix. Cette exposition offre une promenade dans le monde cosmétique intime de la femme. Le musée Copte renferme de rares trésors qui ont davantage besoin d’être mis en relief à travers l’organisation de telles expositions. (Doaa Elhami, « Une histoire de coquetterie », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 3 avril 2019). - - Flacons à khôl dont l'un est orné de cercles qui, ensemble, forment des croix De cette collection exposée, un fragment en ivoire attire l’œil. « Malgré la petite taille de la pièce, dont les mesures ne dépassent pas les 12 cm sur 3,5 cm, les détails de la scène sculptée sont raffinés », souligne Zarîf. On y voit une jeune fille coiffée et habillée à la mode gréco-romaine. Pour Zarîf, ce fragment d’ivoire pourrait être une partie de la décoration d’un coffret. Les bijoux, véritables trésors en bronze et en fer, occupent une place importante dans l’exposition. Des boucles d’oreilles et des bracelets sont finement travaillés et décorés de motifs ornementaux géométriques et botaniques. On y admire aussi des colliers en pierres précieuses et en ivoire, dont l’un est BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 À l’occasion de la Journée mondiale de sensibilisation à l’autisme 2019, le ministère de l’Archéologie a illuminé en bleu le temple de Louqsor et le dromos, hier 2 avril. (Ahmad Mansûr, « Le temple de Louqsor et le dromos illuminés en bleu à l’occasion de la Journée mondiale de sensibilisation à l’autisme », alYawm al-Sâbi‘, 3 avril 2019. Voir également Îmân al-Hawwârî, « Le temple de Louqsor illuminé en bleu pour sensibiliser à la maladie de l’autisme », al-Ahrâm, 2 avril ; Muna ‘Abdu, « Le temple de Louqsor et le dromos illuminés en bleu à l’occasion de la Journée mondiale de l’autisme », al-Wafd, 3 avril ; MENA, « Le temple de Louqsor et le dromos illuminés en bleu à l’occasion de la Journée mondiale de 144 Avril 2019 l’autisme », al-Shurûq, 3 avril ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Le temple de Louqsor et le dromos illuminés en bleu à l’occasion de la Journée mondiale de l’autisme », Sada al-Balad, 3 avril). - - Jeudi 4 avril 2019 Visitors queuing in front of the exhibition gate As Nevine El-Aref wrote in Al-Ahram Weekly last week, there can be few residents or visitors to the French capital who are not aware that the “Tutankhamun: Treasures of the Pharaoh” exhibition has stopped off in Paris on the latest leg of a world tour that has already taken it to the California Science Center in Los Angeles where it opened in March last year. In November, the exhibition will be touching down at London’s Saatchi Gallery for a further four-month run before it travels to Sydney in Australia for another six months before returning to Egypt in 2021. The 150 objects from the Tutankhamun collection included in the tour will then be integrated into the new Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) on the Gîza Plateau that is slated to open to the public later in the same year. This may very well be the last time that objects from the Tutankhamun collection go on such a comprehensive world tour, and it has been reflected in the exhibition’s marketing. Not only does it mark almost 100 years since the discovery of the young Pharaoh’s previously unknown tomb by British archaeologist Howard CARTER in the Valley of the Kings on the West Bank of the Nile at Luxor in 1922, but it also falls some 50 years after the most famous of all Tutankhamun’s BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 world tours, which took place in the 1960s and 1970s and took in destinations that included Paris (1967), London (1972) and New York (1976-1979). The earlier tour had seen objects from the Tutankhamun collection hosted at the Petit Palais in central Paris, the British Museum in London, where the exhibition was the most popular ever staged and attracted some 1.6 million visitors, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, where it attracted some eight million visitors and was the first and thus far the most successful of all the museum’s famous blockbuster shows. It triumphantly proved not only that archaeology could be popular, even wildly so in the shape of the “Tut-mania” that especially in the United States accompanied the show, but also that museums themselves could become major leisure destinations and appeal much more widely than to their traditional audiences of scholars and connoisseurs. Perhaps more than any other single exhibition in the Metropolitan Museum’s history, the Tutankhamun exhibition democratised the museum in a way that had been almost unthinkable before. In Paris, the “Tutankhamun: Treasures of the Pharaoh” exhibition is being hosted at the Grande Halle de la Villette in the capital’s 19th arrondissement, an originally 19th-century ironand-glass commercial structure that has been adapted and reused as a multi-purpose exhibition and performance venue. It is set within a landscaped area that also includes the main Paris concert hall, music conservatory, science and technology centre and planetarium. It is all a far cry from the Louvre in central Paris, also an adapted building, though this time from its previous use as a royal palace. The selection of la Villette as the venue for the exhibition on Tutankhamun suggests that the organisers wanted to escape the solemnity of a traditional museum environment and appeal to the widest possible audience. Joining the queues outside the Grande Halle on a weekday morning, the Weekly found that this was a bet that had well paid off, for in 145 Avril 2019 addition to the regular, rather elderly weekday audience, “Tutankhamun: Treasures of the Pharaoh” had also attracted a large number of family groups — young parents, perhaps taking time off work to ensure that their small children had a chance to see the show, as well as grandparents taking grandchildren to the exhibition while their parents were at work. years ago when the ancient Egyptian priests had sealed it up as far as they knew for all eternity, one can still imagine the sense of mystery and privilege that CARTER, CARNARVON, and other members of their team must have experienced on entering a space and breathing air that had last had human visitors in 1323 BCE. There were also many school parties, often of primary school-age pupils neatly arranged in groups of two and clutching illustrated notebooks on the treasures of Tutankhamun. There were older school groups waiting patiently for their appointed entry time — visitors are advised to purchase timed tickets in advance — and passing the time by consulting Internet materials and taking selfies of each other on mobile phones. The exhibition uses modern technology to try to reproduce that sense of wonder for today’s audiences, with the first room featuring a 360-degree video presentation of the history and discovery of the tomb. Once within the show itself, visitors are greeted by a dramatically lit statue of the god Amun protecting Tutankhamun, borrowed from the Louvre, before passing through into the second room and a selection from the 150 objects included in the show, all of them taken from the more than 5,000 discovered in the tomb and slated for permanent display in the GEM. The atmosphere, expectant and goodhumoured, continued within the walls of the Grande Halle itself, where visitors, reminded of exhibition etiquette, were treated to largescale video projections of the Valley of the Kings. Some of these were of hot-air balloon trips above the Nile at Luxor, a marvellous experience for those with a head for heights and an unforgettable perspective on the stark boundary between the green fertility of the Nile Valley and the biscuit-coloured desert land stretching out beyond. Statuette of Tutankhamun THE EXHIBITION: Entering the exhibition, visitors may be reminded of the legendary moment when on 26 November 1922 CARTER accompanied by his aristocratic British sponsor Lord CARNARVON first entered the tomb of the ancient Egyptian boy-king Tutankhamun. While the air in the tomb would probably not have been entirely that of more than 3,000 BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 The display aptly negotiates the different priorities facing any major museum show. Some visitors will doubtless want to emerge having learned more about ancient Egyptian kingship and burial practices and above all about what is known about the enigmatic figure of the boy king Tutankhamun. Others, like the school parties on the day the Weekly visited, may have more narrowly defined aims, having been asked by their teachers to find particular objects or information. Others still, probably the majority, may simply want to be in the presence, even separated by the glass of the display cases, of objects from the tomb, their mysterious aura being the pull factor that year after year, decade after decade, brings tens of thousands of visitors face-to-face with the objects found in the tomb of Tutankhamun. Photographs in books or on the Internet, whatever their quality, cannot substitute for the experience of seeing the physical objects. The exhibition organisers, knowing this, have ensured that each object, unusually well displayed, can be viewed in the round and has been given space to breath. 146 Avril 2019 Many visitors were heard to comment on how extraordinarily well-preserved the pieces were, perhaps especially, and most amazingly, the wooden objects on show. As is wellknown, the ancient Egyptian priests, otherworldly in many ways, were also touchingly down-to-earth, even literal-minded, when it came to provisioning the Pharaohs’ tombs. They provided the tables, chairs, beds and other medium-sized domestic items that the king would surely require in the afterlife as well as the chariots, armour and weapons that he would want on outdoor occasions. In addition to formal suits, he would also want every day wear, they must have thought, rather like people putting together wedding lists and adding household items like knives, forks and spoons. In any case, Tutankhamun’s household furniture, much of it made of inlaid wood, was of the highest possible quality, and seen close to it looks as if it could have been made yesterday so completely preserved has it been by the dry air of his desert tomb. The exhibition’s rooms follow a loose narrative line recounting the death, burial, and resurrection of the boy king Tutankhamun. Room four includes gilded figures of the king engaged in some of the activities that he presumably enjoyed in his earthly life and that it was assumed he would enjoy in the next one too, including riding atop a black panther and wrestling a lion (maybe he did not actually engage in those activities) and harpooning fish from a boat on the Nile. Room five focuses on the voyage through the afterlife in a display centred around a magnificent guardian statue of the king’s ka, or soul. Subsequent rooms look at mummification practices and include some of the smaller objects found in the tomb, including the ushabti figurines that were thought of as attending to the king’s needs in the afterlife. Various pieces of jewellery received attention from many visitors because of their astonishingly fine workmanship and immaculate state of conservation. In the exhibition’s final rooms, CARTER, CARNARVON and the discovery of the tomb reenter the picture, with the organisers BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 summarising the two Englishmen’s involvement and Tutankhamun’s subsequent afterlife as a kind of ambassador of ancient and modern Egypt worldwide. This cannot have been the afterlife the ancient Egyptian priests had had in mind when they interred his royal body in his Theban tomb, but perhaps they would not have minded, so successfully has Tutankhamun performed his role more than 3,000 years after he died. One exits the final room with a head full of ancient Egyptian imagery, feeling slightly melancholy at thinking how death-directed the ancient Egyptian religion seems to have been. But then one remembers how positively lifeaffirming it was also, since the afterlife was always conceived of as being a kind of perfected and immutable version of the present one, except as little subject to tarnishing and decay as the gold used in the objects in Tutankhamun’s tomb. (David Tresilian, “A visit to Tutankhamun”, Al-Ahram Weekly, April 4, 2019. Voir également Zâhî Hawwâs, « Toutankhamon à Paris », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 30 avril). - - En coopération avec le ministère égyptien des Affaires étrangères, le ministère de l’Archéologie a réussi à récupérer huit pièces antiques saisies en Bavière, après leur exportation illicite en 2011. Le superviseur général du département des antiquités restituées, Sha‘bân ‘Abd al-Gawwâd, a annoncé que les autorités allemandes ont remis ces pièces volées aux responsables de l’ambassade d’Égypte à Berlin. Elles retourneront au pays incessamment. Il s’agit de poteries de différentes tailles remontant à l’époque tardive. (‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « L’Égypte récupère 8 pièces archéologiques volées en Allemagne », Sada al-Balad, 4 avril 2019. Voir également Sanâ’ Fârûq, « Des pièces archéologiques restituées par l’Allemagne », Watanî, 4 avril ; Ibrâhîm al-Sakhâwî, « L’ambassade d’Égypte à Berlin réussit à récupérer 8 pièces antiques volées », alAhrâm, 5 avril). - 147 Avril 2019 Vendredi 5 avril 2019 An exceptionally well-painted Ptolemaicera tomb of a nobleman called Toutou and his wife, a musician, was discovered at al-Diyâbât archaeological site in Suhâg governorate on Friday. “Although it is a very small tomb from the Ptolemaic period, it is exceptionally painted with beautiful scenes,” said Wazîrî. The tomb consists of two tiny rooms containing two limestone sarcophagi, as well as a very-well preserved mummy that has not been identified yet. A number of mummified animals and birds were also found in the tomb, including falcons, eagles, cats, dogs and shrews. The tomb was accidentally discovered when the Tourism and Antiquities Police arrested a gang who were carrying out illegal excavations in an area near the al-Diyâbât archaeological mound. After the completion of investigations, the Ministry of Antiquities assigned a scientific archaeological mission, led by Mustafa Wazîrî, secretary-general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, to start excavations of the tomb. BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Wazîrî said that shrews can see very well at night, and ancient Egyptians believed they could cure blindness. (Nevine El-Aref, “Ptolemaic-era tomb discovered in Upper Egypt’s Suhâg”, Ahram Online, April 5, 2019. Voir également Samar al-Naggâr, « Découverte d’une tombe double datant de l’époque romaine », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 5 avril ; Ahmad Mansûr, « Mise au jour de la tombe de Toutou à Suhâg », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 5 avril ; “Toutou tomb uncovered in Suhâg”, Egypt Today, April 6 ; Doaa Elhami, « Suhâg, le 148 Avril 2019 nouvel eldorado des archéologues », Ahram Hebdo du 10 avril). - Al- - Minister of Antiquities Khâlid al-‘Inânî along with Suhâg Governor Ahmad al-Ansârî inaugurated developing Abydos archaeological area project in Suhâg at a cost of 42 million L.E on Friday, April 5. About forty foreign ambassadors from 25 Arab and foreign countries witnessed the inauguration of Abydos archaeological area. al-‘Inânî recounted during the inauguration that Abydos archaeological area houses visitors center and a project to lower the groundwater level at Abydos temple, which is being executed in cooperation with the National Co. for General Construction & Supplies. (…) The Ministry of Antiquities succeeded in regrouping and restoring the statue of Ramses II in Akhmîm city in Suhâg governorate and was placed in its original place beside Queen Mirit Amon statue. (“Khâlid al-‘Inânî inaugurates Abydos archaeological area”, Egypt Today, April 5, 2019). - - Samedi 6 avril 2019 General Supervisor of the Historic Cairo Rehabilitation Project (HCRP), Muhammad ‘Abd al-‘Azîz told Egypt Today in an interview that around 602 tourist attractions would benefit from the new study and development plan. He also added that the study contributes to originating new tourism marketing ideas to promote the tourism sector and relocate Egypt to its “proper stature” worldwide. ‘Abd al-‘Azîz further added that the program also focuses on benefiting from the existing old trades, skills, crafts and industries, which span back to over 100 years, and still exist. ‘Abd al-‘Azîz stressed that attracting tourism to Historic Cairo remains one of the most important objectives of the Historic Cairo Rehabilitation Project (HCRP). Attracting visitors, according to him, will be through the achievement of a diversity of touristic products and taking advantage of the efforts undertaken by the Ministry of Tourism and Tourism Development Authority in the past; taking into account the requirements of different tourists from different backgrounds. Moreover, ‘Abd al-‘Azîz stressed that Historic Cairo represents a real treasure for all Egyptians and should be utilized for the benefit of the current and future generations, which have the right to enjoy the pride in their country’s architectural heritage and rich culture. (Mustafa Marie, “HCRP to promote 1204 archaeological sites”, Egypt Today, April 6, 2019). - - Dimanche 7 avril 2019 An urban development plan for Historic Cairo aims at boosting tourism and reviving the rich spirit of one of the world’s oldest Islamic cities. Sponsored by the Ministry of Antiquities, the plan is based on a detailed study of tourist destinations in Historic Cairo in order to include them in future tourism programs. BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 149 Avril 2019 In what seems to be an unusual and exciting occasion, the Discovery Channel will broadcast a 2-hour live show in which it will open an ancient Egyptian sarcophagus on Monday, April 8. The show titled “Expedition Unknown: Egypt Live” will follow U.S TV presenter Josh GATES and former Minister of Antiquities Dr. Zâhî Hawwâs as they trek through a Late Period site in Minyâ in search for adventure and knowledge regarding the identity of area’s tomb owners. The iconic presenters will be accompanied by the secretary-general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities of Egypt, Mustafa Wazîrî and American TV commentator Chris JACOBS. The episode, which promises to be one of its kind as it involves the opening of a 3,000year-old sarcophagus for the first time live on TV, will also be aired on the Travel and Science Channels. The site in which the sarcophagus lays was discovered February 2018 at the hands of an Egyptian archeological mission. This Expedition Unknown episode, taking place in a site that mass audiences are generally not well-aware of, was orchestrated through a close collaboration between the Discovery Channel and Egypt’s antiquities Ministry. “We know that there are a lot of mummies that are down there,” stated GATES concerning the site in which the show will take place, according to Egypt Today. The explorer highlighted that the tombs may contain the mummies of high-class ancient Egyptians. GATES, the 41-year-old host of the Expedition Unknown series, which is about to premiere its fifth season, is known to have BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 travelled to several countries in order to bring viewers various thrilling sites around the world. “I think folks can expect to meet a mummy face to face,” GATES also said in the promotional video “We’re going to be going into these tight tunnels and tombs and passages and there are snakes and curses and all that good stuff.” In an additional interview with Fox News Channel, the show presenter also highlighted the show’s contribution to reviving tourism in the country stating “Egypt’s tourism is not in a great place. After the Arab Spring, tourism really dried up in Egypt in a lot of places. A lot of European tourism has returned, Asian tourism has returned, but U.S. tourism really hasn’t bounced back as much.” World renown-Egyptologist Hawwâs has also continuously reiterated the importance of Egypt’s tourism, highlighting that the arrival of tourists and proliferation of archeological visits provide funding to restoring and managing the country’s antiquities. Egypt’s tourism was hit post-2011 revolution and ousting of former president Husnî Mubârak. In the last years, the government has aggressively and consistently targeted the improvement of the tourism sector which has begun to flourish once more although not hitting its former statistic of b4.7 million tourists in 2010. According to official government figures, tourist arrival reached 8.3 million in 2017 with key cities of attractions being Cairo, Luxor, Aswân, Hurghada, Sharm al-Shaykh and Alexandria. (“Discovery Channel to Open Ancient Egyptian Sarcophagus LIVE on TV”, Egyptian Streets, April 7, 2019. Voir 150 Avril 2019 également Ahmad Mansûr, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie autorise Discovery Channel à diffuser une émission sur une découverte archéologique à Minyâ », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 6 avril ; Muhammad ‘Abd al-Mu‘tî, « Discovery Channel diffuse aujourd’hui une émission sur une découverte archéologique à Minyâ », alAhrâm, 7 avril ; « Le ministère de l’Archéologie : Discovery Channel a payé 150 000 dollars pour un tournage de 2 heures à l’intérieur d’une tombe à Minyâ », al-Dustûr, 8 avril ; Angy Essam, “Egyptian DOP joins unearthing Pharaonic tomb”, Egypt Today, April 9). - - - - The colossus of Ramses II Minister of Antiquities Khâlid al-‘Inânî and 40 ambassadors have inaugurated the statue of King Ramses II on Saturday, after completion of the restoration work and assembling of its pieces. The statue was installed next to the statue of Queen Merit Amun in the city of Akhmîm, Suhâg. The ceremony was attended by Governor of Suhâg Ahmad al-Ansârî, Secretary General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities Mustafa al-Wazîrî and 40 ambassadors from Arab and foreign countries. Dans le cadre des célébrations de son centenaire, l’Organisation international du Travail (OIT) a offert au Grand Musée Égyptien (GEM) cent arbres qui ont été plantés par des étudiants égyptiens lors d’une cérémonie. Ont assisté à cette cérémonie : le ministre de l’Archéologie, Dr Khâlid al-‘Inânî ; le ministre de la Main-d’œuvre, Muhammad Sa‘fân ; et le superviseur général du GEM, major ‘Âtif Muftâh. Selon le directeur du bureau de l’OIT au Caire, Eric OECHSLIN, le choix de l’Égypte pour la célébration de la cérémonie est justifié par les avancées réalisées, lors de la dernière période, en matière de politiques sociales et ouvrières. (‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Des étudiants plantent 100 arbres au GEM », Sada al-Balad, 7 avril 2019. Voir également Mahmûd ‘Abd alBâqî, « L’OIT offre 100 arbres au GEM », Vetogate, 4 avril ; Karîma Hasan, « Sa‘fân et al‘Inânî plantent 100 arbres, cadeau de l’OIT », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 7 avril ; May Al-Maghrabi, « Égypte et OIT, 60 ans de partenariat », AlAhram Hebdo du 17 avril). BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 According to al-‘Inânî, Suhâg is putting in continuous effort in cooperation with the Antiquities Ministry to mark itself on the map of international tourism. al-Ansârî said that the statue was inaugurated in conjunction with the Suhâg National Day. The restoration of the statue began six months ago, and included cleaning, archiving, assembling and re-installation. The statue’s height, after the completion of work, stands at approximately 12 meters and was placed on a base next to the statue of Merit Amun, according to Wazîrî. (“King Ramses II statue inaugurated in Suhâg”, Egypt Independent, April 7, 2019. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie inaugure la statue de Ramsès II à Suhâg », al-Yawm alSâbi‘, 5 avril ; Doaa Elhami, « Ramsès II rejoint sa fille Méritamon », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 10 avril). - - 151 Avril 2019 Lundi 8 avril 2019 At the burial site in Minyâ province, the team also found a rare wax head. “I never discovered in the late period anything like this,” Hawwâs said. Egyptian archaeologists discovered the site a year and a half ago and the excavation is continuing. Egypt has unveiled the 2,500-year-old mummy of a high priest at an ancient cemetery south of Cairo. The sarcophagus of an ancient Egyptian high priest has been opened on live TV by experts working with the Discovery Channel. The mummy was found alongside a “mysterious wax head,” which is believed to be an exact cast of the priest, the network said. Its features were so detailed “he could have easily been picked out on the street,” a statement from Discovery said. “I really believe that this site needs excavation maybe for the coming 50 years,” Hawwâs told Reuters a day before the sarcophagi were opened. He expects more tombs to be found there. In 1927, a huge limestone sarcophagus was found in the area and placed in the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, but the site was then forgotten, Hawwâs said. But two years ago, an unauthorised digger was found at the site and stopped, he said. That’s what alerted archaeologists and excavation began. (Reuters, “Ancient Egyptian Sarcophagus of high priest opened live on Discovery Channel”, Ahram Online, April 8, 2019. Voir également Hâshim, « Wazîrî : Discovery Channel a payé 150 000 dollars pour filmer la nouvelle découverte archéologique à Minyâ », al-Watan, 9 avril ; Mira Maged, “2,500-year-old 26th Dynasty sarcophagi unearthed in Egypt”, Egypt Independent, April 11). - - Egyptologist Zâhî Hawwâs and an Egyptian team opened three sealed sarcophagi from the 26th Dynasty. One contained the well-preserved mummy of a powerful priest, wrapped in linen and decorated with a golden figure depicting Isis, an ancient Egyptian goddess. The team also opened two other sarcophagi, one containing a female mummy decorated with blue beads and another with a father in a family tomb. The finds were revealed live on air on the Discovery Channel on Sunday. BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Le ministre de l’Archéologie, Dr Khâlid al‘Inânî, a reçu ce matin le ministre tchèque de la Culture, Antonin STANEK. Ont assisté à cet entretien : l’ambassadeur de la République tchèque au Caire, S.E.M. Jan FULIK ; le chef de la mission archéologique tchèque, Miroslav BARTA ; le directeur général du Musée national tchèque, Michal LUKES. L’entretien a porté sur 152 Avril 2019 le renforcement de la coopération bilatérale dans le champ archéologique et l’échange d’expériences et d’expertises dans les domaines des musées et de la restauration. Le ministre tchèque de la Culture s’est félicité des liens reliant son pays à l’Égypte et du travail effectué par les missions archéologiques tchèques, notamment en matière de restauration des églises antiques. Rappelons que deux missions tchèques opèrent à Saqqâra et à Abûsîr. À l’issue de l’entretien, Antonin STANEK a invité Khâlid al‘Inânî à visiter la capitale Prague, ses sites historiques et ses musées. (Ahmad Mansûr, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie reçoit le ministre tchèque de la Culture », al-Yawm alSâbi‘, 8 avril 2019. Voir également Rîm alZâhid, « al-‘Inânî reçoit le ministre tchèque de la Culture », Akhbâr al-Yawm, 8 avril ; ‘Umar al-Mahdî, « Les ministres égyptien et tchèque examinent la coopération archéologique », alAhrâm, 8 avril ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie examine la coopération avec le ministre tchèque de la Culture », Sada alBalad, 8 avril). - - Mardi 9 avril 2019 According to local Egyptian news outlets, the Ministry of Local development has announced its program to develop five archeological sites on the flight of the Holy Family’s trail. The decision was announced on Monday; it involves the Monastery of Bishop Bishoy, the Church of the Virgin in Ma‘âdî, the Monastery of al-Suryân, the Barâmus Monastery and the Church of Abû Sirga in Masr al-Qadîma. of the monasteries, the Ministry is also planning on improving infrastructure in the roads directing the trail, providing ‘green’ spaces and the refurbishment of certain monuments. Syrian Monastery “The Holy Family came to Egypt, traveling for about three-and-a-half years across the country. What we have done is — and this project is not recent as we started it about two or three years ago — we picked eight locations in four cities and we prepared their infrastructure to receive tourists,” Hishâm alDimayrî, chairman of the Egyptian Tourism Promotion Board told Egypt Today concerning the lay-out of the Holy Family’s trail. As for the significant sites that will be developed, they are spread through Cairo and Wâdî al-Natrûn with monuments in need for maintenance and development work. As per the program laid out by the Ministry, the work will debut with the development of monasteries in Minyâ and Asyût; it is meant to last 6 to 18 months in both heavily-Christian populated governorates. There are various forms of tourism, the backbone of the country’s economy, existing in Egypt; local and international tourists indulge in cultural and leisure tourism although the government is promoting the country’s potential for medical and religious tourism as well. Other than allocating money for the development of tourists spots in the enclosure Barâmus Monastery BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 153 Avril 2019 This stage will be followed with work in other governorates, namely Kafr al-Shaykh, alSharqiyya and al-Gharbiyya. Still outside of Cairo, the roads leading to three monasteries in the governorate of alBuhayra will be paved and widened; the endeavor will amount to 3.4 million EGP. Also in al-Buhayra, 250 palm trees will be planted with the assistance of the university of Damanhûr. mountains is believed to have been the place where Moses received the Ten Commandments. (“Holy Family Trail in Egypt: Five Sites Under Development Program”, Egyptian Streets, April 9, 2019). - - Moreover, designated as resting spots for future tourists, the minister is designing three camps “in the old Coptic style” on the roads leading to the monasteries. Saint Bishoy Monastery Christie’s Auction and Private Sales in New York is holding an auction entitled “Antiques”, which includes many antiquities dating back to ancient Egypt, in addition to antiquities from the Roman Era. The antiquities will be held for sale on April 29. The Ministry is additionally seeking to develop archeological sites of religious significance, as well as cleaning up West Cairo’s dump site in order to turn it into an open garden. Also in Cairo, the Ministry is pumping 6 million EGP into the restoration of the Church of Ma‘âdî, its surrounding environment and into the establishment an allocated tourist spot. The Holy Family “tour” was devised by the Ministry of Tourism in April 2017; it was promoted with the collaboration of Pope Francis in April of that year. Two Italian delegations have already been on the tour; the program is forecasted to attract a large number of tourists from all around the world. Thousands of tourists already flock to Saint Catherine’s monastery in Sinai every year as the site is considered of religious significance to world’s three major Abrahamic religions Christianity, Islam and Judaism as one of its BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Among the pieces held for sale is an ancient Egyptian statue, a basalt figure of a man, dating back to the Middle Kingdom, circa late 12th -13th dynasty, circa 1800-1640 B.C. The height of the statue is 15.9 cm and is estimated to cost between $20000 to $30000. Christie’s is a name and place that speaks of extraordinary art, unparalleled service, expertise and global reach. Founded in 1766 154 Avril 2019 by James CHRISTIE, Christie’s has since conducted the greatest and most celebrated auctions through the centuries providing a popular showcase for the unique and the beautiful. Egypt Today, April 9, 2019. Voir également Basant Gamîl, « Christie’s met en vente 17 pièces pharaoniques pour des milliers de dollars », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 10 avril ; « Une statue pharaonique en vente pour 30 000 dollars », al-Ahrâm, 10 avril ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Vente de 17 pièces pharaoniques chez Christie’s », Sada al-Balad, 10 avril ; Ruz Husnî, « Des pièces pharaoniques vendues dans une salle d’enchères aux États-Unis », Watanî, 16 avril). - Christie’s offers around 350 auctions annually in over 80 categories, including all areas of fine and decorative arts, jewellery, photographs, collectibles, wine, and more. Prices range from $200 to over $100 million. Christie’s also has a long and successful history conducting private sales for its clients in all categories, with emphasis on Post-War & Contemporary, Impressionist & Modern, Old Masters and Jewellery. - The Luxor Center for Studies, Dialogue and Development recently published a study by Egyptian researcher Wissam Daoud, which describes how dancing was a frequent part of ancient Egyptian daily life and religious activities. In light of the upcoming International Day of Dance on April 29, the study details ancient dances such as the “Dwarf’s Dance”, once performed every morning besides raucous war dances which featured performers who behave as if they jumped out of the African bush. The study also details another dance by a female group who would spin around, showcasing their agility. Researcher Dawood stated that thousands of years ago “The Four Winds” song was the one of the first recorded dancing show, which featured acrobatic female dancers performing in the Middle Kingdom era. Christie’s has a global presence in 46 countries, with 10 salerooms around the world including in London, New York, Paris, Geneva, Milan, Amsterdam, Dubai, Zürich, Hong Kong, and Shanghai. More recently, Christie’s has led the market with expanded initiatives in growth markets such as Russia, China, India and the United Arab Emirates, with successful sales and exhibitions in Beijing, Mumbai and Dubai. (Angy Essam, “Ancient Egyptian basalt statue to be auctioned in Christie’s on April 29”, BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 The study added that there were specialized dances that were performed during burials and weddings. Quotes by Egyptologist Henrick FIELD within the study also describes a type of dance in which female dancers would fix their feet while moving their hands aggressively. According to the study, some of the earliest records describing ancient Egyptian dance practices were found on temple walls at the western desert. (Mira Maged, “Study highlights ancient Egypt’s passion for dancing”, Egypt Independent, April 9, 2019). - 155 Avril 2019 Jeudi 11 avril 2019 The Upper Egyptian governorate of Suhâg made the headlines this week as a result of several archaeological activities. Minister of Antiquities Khâlid al-‘Inânî and ambassadors from 40 foreign, Arab and African countries flocked to the area to witness the announcement of a new tomb discovery in the al-Diyâbât area, the unveiling of a colossus of Ramses II in Akhmîm after its restoration, the completion of the Osirion groundwater project in Abydos, and the viewing of the area’s Coptic monuments in the Red and White Monasteries and the newly inaugurated Suhâg National Museum. (…) Since its discovery by archaeologists Flinders PETRIE and Margaret MURRAY in 1902, the Osirion has been suffering from a high level of groundwater, but after two years of work the groundwater-lowering project has been completed. “This is the third groundwater-lowering project the ministry is conducting at archaeological sites,” al-‘Inânî told the Weekly. He explained that the project came within the work of the ministry to protect archaeological sites from high levels of subterranean water. In the last 30 days, al-‘Inânî added, the ministry had succeeded in completing and inaugurating three groundwater-lowering projects at three archaeological sites. The first was at the Kom al-Shuqâfa Catacombs in Alexandria and the second at the Kom Ombo Temples in Aswân, both in cooperation with the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the National Authority for Potable Water and Sewerage (NAPWAS). The Osirion OSIRION GROUNDWATER ‘Inânî and the delegation also the Temple of Seti I in Abydos inspect recent development being provided to visitors. PROJECT: alpaid a visit to near Suhâg to and facilities A new visitor centre has been established at the entrance of the temple. It includes a hall showing the archaeological excavations being carried out at Abydos as well as information about the site and its monuments. A route with signs and maps bearing information about every monument at the site has been built and a parking area, entrance gate, and ticket and information office provided. A lighting system has been installed to make the site accessible at night. The Osirion project was completed in collaboration with the National Co. for General Construction & Supplies. The Osirion, an ancient Egyptian temple located to the rear of the Seti I Temple, was also inaugurated after the completion of a groundwater-lowering project to reduce the level of subterranean water. Wa‘d Abû al-‘Ilâ, head of the Projects Sector at the Ministry of Antiquities, said the Osirion was a bath originally built on top of ancient springs 18m lower than the foundations of the Seti I Temple. The BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 156 Avril 2019 construction of the Aswân High Dam had contributed to the increase in the level of subterranean water inside the temple as well as the urban and agricultural development of Abydos, he said. The project aimed at reducing the water level through digging six 60m wells equipped with two electronic water stations to pump water outside the temple to the main drainage system. The Osirion consists of a vaulted corridor starting from the Temple of Seti I, a short passage that connects to the great central chamber, and a last chamber parallel to an antechamber. Elements of the building are made of granite similar to the temples on the Pyramids Plateau in Gîza, and some scholars have suggested that it may be a copy or a previous building that was reused. Although it has been dated to the reign of Seti I, some scholars disagree. The ancient Greek historian STRABO, who visited the Osirion in the first century BCE, suggested that it could be dated to the reign of Amenemhet III. (…) ATHRIBIS: al-‘Inânî also paid a visit to the site of Athribis (al-Shaykh Hamad) located 10km south-west of Suhâg, where he visited the excavation and restoration work carried out by a German archaeological mission in a Ptolemaic temple built by Ptolemy XII. The mission is also studying the temple’s wall reliefs. During the visit, al-‘Inânî discussed measures to open parts of the temple to visitors in the near future. Athribis houses a collection of Ptolemaic monuments, among them a temple dedicated to the lion goddess Repyt and a massive gateway of Ptolemy VIII Euergetes, who also began the construction of a temple against the slope of a hill. There are few remains in situ. (…) THE RED AND WHITE MONASTERIES: The delegation also embarked on a guided tour of the Red and White Monasteries while in Suhâg. BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Bishop Antonious al-Shenoudi of the Red Monastery offered al-‘Inânî a copy of the Quran, which al-‘Inânî described as being testimony that Egypt and Egyptians were one. He said that the restoration project of the monastery was a way that the ministry could help protect and preserve one of Egypt’s ancient Coptic shrines. In collaboration with the American Research Centre in Egypt (ARCE) and the Monastery administration, the ministry is carrying out a restoration project that according to the ARCE Website began in 2002 and had revealed magnificent painted surfaces. The Church of the Red Monastery Inside the Monastery’s triconch sanctuary, a new limestone floor has been laid, new wooden doors and metal handrails installed, a new altar table built, and a new system of LED lighting designed and fitted in collaboration with Philips Egypt. The entire church has been rewired and a completely new electrical system put in place to support the lighting as well as the sound and video equipment required by the church. Gamâl Mustafa, head of the Islamic, Coptic and Jewish Antiquities Sector at the ministry, said the Red Monastery was at the heart of a large monastic community in an area known as an important centre of ascetic life since the fifth century CE. It was an astonishingly rare example of the artistic integrity of late antique monuments in Egypt, he said, and was socalled because of the red granite taken from nearby Pharaonic temples used in its construction. (…) In 2013, the Islamic Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (ISESCO) added the 157 Avril 2019 Red Monastery to its World Heritage List for the Islamic World. The move was in recognition of Egypt’s ancient civilisation and the country’s many outstanding monuments. attention and care to the Upper Egyptian governorates and to develop their resources,” al-‘Inânî told the Weekly. He added that the completion of the museum was a dream come true and the result of a promise by the ministry to Suhâg and its inhabitants. The museum does not only display the history of Egypt as a country, but also reveals the history of the ancient cities of Suhâg, Abydos and Akhmîm, sites that were the origins of Egypt’s ancient civilisation. The White Monastery The White Monastery, also on the itinerary, was built by Pope Shenoute in 441 CE on the ruins of an ancient Egyptian settlement. The church of the monastery is considered the best preserved, along with the one in the Red Monastery, from late antique Egypt. The monastery acquired its colloquial names from the building materials used in its monumental church and is built principally of white limestone, some of it reused from a Pharaonic building. Within its church important sculptures and paintings have survived, dating between the fifth and 14th centuries CE. Archaeological remains from the ancient monastery still exist around the church and restoration work will continue. Ilhâm Salâh, head of the Museums Sector at the ministry, told the Weekly that the aim of the museum was not only to reflect the unique history of the governorate from pre-history to modern times, but also to highlight Egyptian identity through the changes that have taken place in Upper Egypt. The exhibition scenario focuses on six influential aspects of Egyptian life through the ages: kingship, the family, cooking and cuisine, faith and religion, employment, industry and textiles and handicrafts. It displays a collection of 945 artefacts, most of them unearthed in different sites near Suhâg and the rest having been carefully selected from the Egyptian Museum in Tahrîr Square in Cairo, the Museum of Islamic Art in Cairo’s Bâb al-Khalq neighbourhood, the Textiles Museum in al-Mu‘izz Street in Islamic Cairo and the Coptic Museum in Old Cairo. “The concept of the museum is no longer dependent on placing artefacts next to each other to illustrate ancient Egyptian civilisation,” Salâh said. “Instead, the Ministry of Antiquities has adopted a new philosophy to turn the country’s regional museums into more educational, cultural and productive institutions.” A painted sarcophagus in Suhâg Museum SUHAG NATIONAL MUSEUM: The last stop on the visit was the Suhâg National Museum, inaugurated by President ‘Abd alFattâh al-Sîsî in August 2018 after 30 years of construction. The museum is not just a regional museum, but is part of the ministry’s strategy “to give BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Suhâg is well-known for its distinguished textiles and its industry, Salâh said, and the new museum has allocated a hall to the city’s textiles. It is also friendly to the disabled, and the visitor route is provided with ramps to facilitate circulation. (Nevine El-Aref, “News from Suhâg”, Al-Ahram Weekly, April 11, 2019. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie inaugure 3 projets 158 Avril 2019 dont le coût s’élève à 300 millions L.E. », alYawm al-Sâbi‘, 1er avril ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie annonce 3 projets dont le coût s’élève à 300 millions L.E. », Sada al-Balad, 1er avril ; al-Sayyid Abû ‘Alî, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie visite le Monastère Blanc », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 6 avril ; MENA, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie et 40 ambassadeurs inspectent le musée de Suhâg », al-Dustûr, 6 avril ; Muhammad ‘Abd al-Mu‘tî, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie : Poursuite de la restauration du Monastère Rouge à Suhâg », al-Ahrâm, 7 avril ; Mustafa Marie, “Minister of Antiquities visits White Monastery in Suhâg”, Egypt Today, April 7). - - Vendredi 12 avril 2019 Dans le cadre des célébrations de la Journée mondiale du patrimoine, le musée d’Art islamique inaugure jeudi 18 avril une exposition intitulée "Patrimoines IV". Le directeur général du musée d’Art islamique, Dr Mamdûh ‘Uthmân, a précisé que cette exposition se tiendra dans les jardins de l’American University in Cairo (AUC), place Tahrîr. Des produits artisanaux réalisés dans les ateliers du musée d’Art islamique et inspirés par certaines de ses collections y seront exposés au public. (Ahmad Mansûr, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie organise une exposition dans les jardins de l’AUC », alYawm al-Sâbi‘, 12 avril 2019). - - Samedi 13 avril 2019 Le ministre de l’Archéologie, Dr Khâlid al‘Inânî, a reçu l’ambassadeur d’Arménie en Égypte, S.E.M. Karen GRIGORIAN, fraîchement nommé. L’entretien a porté sur le renforcement de la coopération bilatérale dans les domaines archéologique et scientifique. GRIGORIAN a loué les efforts déployés par le ministère de l’Archéologie dans la sauvegarde du patrimoine égyptien. (Samar al-Naggâr, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie reçoit l’ambassadeur d’Arménie en Égypte », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 11 avril 2019. Voir également Ahmad Ibrâhîm, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie reçoit l’ambassadeur d’Arménie en Égypte », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 10 avril ; Mahmûd ‘Abd al-Bâqî, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie reçoit l’ambassadeur d’Arménie en Égypte », Vetogate, 10 avril ; ‘Umar alMahdî, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie et l’ambassadeur d’Arménie au Caire examinent le renforcement des relations bilatérales », alAhrâm, 10 avril). - - BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Egypt’s Antiquities Minister Khâlid al-‘Inânî has chosen to open all museums and archaeological sites for free on Thursday, April 18, to celebrate World Heritage Day. A statement from the Antiquities Ministry on Saturday said that includes archaeological sites registered on the World Heritage List. The statement said this aims to draw the world’s attention towards endangered historical sites, especially those on the World Heritage site list. In Egypt, six cultural sites are listed on the World Heritage List: Abû Mînâ, Ancient Thebes with its necropolis, Historic Cairo, Memphis and its necropolis including the pyramid fields from Gîza to Dahshûr, Nubian monuments from Abû Simbil to Philae, the area centring on Saint Catherine’s Monastery, and Wâdî al-Hîtân (Valley of the Whales). The World Heritage list includes 890 sites worldwide considered to have “outstanding universal value.” UNESCO’s World Heritage Day, first launched in 1983, aims to raise public awareness about the diversity of cultural heritage and draw attention to ancient sites around the world. 159 Avril 2019 The idea of the celebrations is to give exposure to international efforts to preserve these sites, and increase awareness towards the importance of supporting them. (“On World Heritage Day, Egypt opens its museums and archaeological sites for free”, Egypt Independent, April 13, 2019. Voir également « Accès gratuit aux musées et aux sites archéologiques à l’occasion de la Journée mondiale du patrimoine », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 13 avril ; Ahmad Mansûr, « Gratuité d’accès aux musées et aux sites archéologiques pour les Égyptiens le 18 avril », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 13 avril ; Ranâ Gawhar, « Accès gratuit aux musées jeudi prochain à l’occasion de la Journée mondiale du patrimoine », al-Ahrâm, 14 avril). - - Dimanche 14 avril 2019 The Egyptian Museum in Tahrîr will organize an exhibition of the artifacts discovered in Tûna al-Gabal region in alMinyâ, which is scheduled to start on April 17. of Tûna al-Gabal necropolis. al-‘Inânî added that the uncovered grave was probably for a family from the upper middle class. He explained that the discovery dates back to the beginning of the Roman era and the uncovered antique coffins date back to the late era. al-‘Inânî further explained that the newly uncovered grave consists of a number of burial chambers housing about 40 human mummies of different genders and ages, including children. All the discovered mummies are in a good condition where some are wrapped in linen or decorated with Demotic handwriting. (Angy Essam, “Why Tûna al-Gabal exhibition in Egyptian museum will be a great one?”, Egypt Today, April 14, 2019. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « Le Musée Égyptien organise le 17 avril une exposition sur Tûna al-Gabal », al-Yawm alSâbi‘, 13 avril ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Inauguration aujourd’hui au Musée Égyptien d’exposition sur Tûna al-Gabal », Sada al-Balad, 16 avril). - - Director of the Egyptian Museum stated that the exhibition will include a collection of pottery vessels, statues of alabaster and a number of statues of the goddess Sekhmet, in addition to a collection of different statues, which will be presented to the public, after the completion of the temporary exhibition currently held in the museum. The temporary exhibition in the Egyptian Museum in Tahrîr comprises the findings of the excavation works of the French-Italian mission, which was launched by Minister of Antiquities Khâlid al-‘Inânî on February 4. The French-Italian mission’s findings include 200 pieces found during excavation works in Umm al-Buraygât area in Fayyûm; the pieces were discovered over a span of 30 years starting 1988. (…) Minister of Antiquities Khâlid al-‘Inânî announced on February 4 that a joint mission from the Ministry of Antiquities and the Research Centre for Archaeological Studies at Minyâ University uncovered a collection of Ptolemaic-era rock burial chambers at the site BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 The Egyptian Textile Museum at al-Mu‘izz Street in Cairo is organizing a celebration on World Heritage Day on Thursday, in cooperation with the General Administration for Heritage Preservation in Cairo. Head of the Museums Sector at the Antiquities Ministry Ilhâm Salâh said on Sunday that this year’s celebration, organized on al-Mu‘izz Street, has been dedicated to African heritage following Egypt’s presidency of the African Union and that 2019 is the year of Africa in Egypt. 160 Avril 2019 The festival will include an exhibition of heritage crafts, with the participation of a group of African countries such as Eritrea, Sudan, South Sudan, Morocco, Tunisia, Comoros, Nigeria, Cameroon and Mali, as well as Palestine as guest of honour. Salâh added that he participates in Egypt with a group of faculties of applied arts, plastic artists and major artists of traditional crafts, representing different regions such as: Nubia, Sinai, Oases, Port Said, Cairo and others. For his part, the Director General of the Egyptian Textile Museum Ashraf Abû al-Yazîd said that a large group of Basharia tribes from Halâyyib and Shalâtîn will also participate in the celebration. He added that some of the participating countries will also present artistic pieces of their own heritage at Bayt al-Shi‘r Theatre, next to the Egyptian Textile Museum. (“Festival of African heritage to be held in Cairo’s al-Mu‘izz Street on Thursday”, Egypt Independent, April 14, 2019. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « À l’occasion de la Journée mondiale du patrimoine, le ministère de l’Archéologie organise un festival dans la rue al-Mu‘izz », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 14 avril ; ‘Alâ’ alMinyâwî, « Festival du patrimoine égyptien organisé jeudi prochain dans la rue al-Mu‘izz », Sada al-Balad, 14 avril). - - Lundi 15 avril 2019 a frappé l’un des fleurons du patrimoine de l’humanité. (‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie : l’incendie de Notre-Dame est une perte pour l’humanité », Sada al-Balad, 15 avril 2019. Voir également Nâdir Shukrî, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie : l’incendie de Notre-Dame est une perte pour toute l’humanité », Watanî, 16 avril ; ‘Alâ’ alMinyâwî, « Hawwâs : La cathédrale NotreDame est la pyramide de la France ; son incendie constitue une perte pour l’humanité », Sada al-Balad, 17 avril). - - Mardi 16 avril 2019 The Ministry of Antiquities will organise the third edition of the Egyptian Heritage Festival in the Egyptian Textile Museum on April 18 which coincides with the International Heritage Day. The Ministry of Antiquities will open all the Egyptian museums for free on April 18 in celebration of the International Heritage Day. The Textile Museum celebrated its ninth anniversary on Wednesday, February 13. This museum is the only textile museum in the Middle East. The Textile Museum in al-Mu‘izz Street, Cairo displays fine collections of textile from the Pharaonic, Roman, Coptic and Islamic eras. It is proof that Egypt’s lengthy history is not only documented on papyrus or stones, but also knitted in garments. The collection of the Ancient Egyptian textiles contains clothes, bed sheets, mummy covers, cushions and even diapers. The museum also displays small statues of men, women, servants, and gods with their outfit carved on their bodies to display the variation in their dress codes. Le ministère de l’Archéologie a exprimé sa totale solidarité avec la France et le peuple français, à la suite de l’incendie qui a ravagé la cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris. Le ministre de l’Archéologie, Dr Khâlid al-‘Inânî, s’est dit profondément attristé par ce grand sinistre qui BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 The section that displays the Roman era textiles also holds a number of sewing tools as well as a small model of a spinning and weaving workshop. The Coptic section in the museum shows that this era was revolutionary in textile 161 Avril 2019 production in terms of colours and the use of other materials such as cotton, wool and silk. The Islamic section features different styles of Arabic calligraphy and holds parts of the Ka’ba cover, which Egypt used to produce. Additionally, the museum displays some pieces from outside Egypt, mostly from Iran. (Angy Essam, “Egyptian Heritage Festival to kick off at Egyptian Textile Museum on Apr.18”, Egypt Today, April 16, 2019). - - - Mercredi 17 avril 2019 Le ministre de l’Archéologie, Dr. Khâlid al‘Inânî, a reçu l’Ambassadeur de France en Égypte, M. Stéphane ROMATET, afin d’examiner les moyens de renforcer la coopération bilatérale. Ils ont lancé mardi 16 avril 2019 un ambitieux projet de coopération franco-égyptien pour la protection et la mise en valeur du site de Sân al-Hagar, l’antique ville de Tanis, situé dans le gouvernorat d’alSharqiyya. Le Musée Égyptien de Tahrîr expose le sarcophage de Ramsès II avant son transfert définitif vers le Musée national de la Civilisation égyptienne (NMEC). La directrice générale du Musée Égyptien, Sabâh ‘Abd alRâziq, a précisé que ce sarcophage anthropoïde complet en bois est exposé pour la première fois dans le hall du musée. En effet, le couvercle était exposé à part dans la salle 47 du premier étage, alors que le reste du sarcophage était conservé dans les réserves. (Ahmad Mansûr, « Le sarcophage de Ramsès II exposé au Musée Égyptien », alYawm al-Sâbi‘, 16 avril 2019. Voir également Samar al-Naggâr, « Le sarcophage de Ramsès II exposé cette semaine au Musée Égyptien », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 16 avril ; Husâm Zaydân, « Le sarcophage de Ramsès II exposé cette semaine au Musée Égyptien », al-Fagr, 16 avril ; Muhammad ‘Abd al-Mu‘tî, « Exposition du sarcophage de Ramsès II avant son transfert vers le NMEC », al-Ahrâm, 17 avril). BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Ce projet est financé par le ministère français de l’Europe et des Affaires étrangères dans le cadre du « Fonds de Solidarité Prioritaire innovante » (FSPi). Il vient renforcer encore davantage la coopération qui lie la France et l’Égypte en matière d’archéologie. Ce projet porte sur : • l’aménagement d’un centre d’interprétation et de facilités pour les visiteurs ; • la restauration de la porte monumentale de Chéchonq III ; • la restauration de nouveaux monuments sur le site ; • la protection des tombes royales contre les eaux de pluie ; • la conservation-restauration des tombes royales ; • l’aménagement de la nécropole royale pour les visiteurs ; • l’installation d’une signalétique sur le site ; • la création de pages web donnant des informations complémentaires, des images 162 Avril 2019 d’archive datant de la découverte, la présentation des objets découverts dans les tombes royales, accessibles grâce à des codes QR placés sur les panneaux d’information ; • des actions de formation et de sensibilisation au patrimoine auprès des écoles de Sân al-Hagar. Mené en étroite collaboration avec la Mission française des fouilles de Tanis (MFFT), le projet est mis en œuvre par l’Institut français d’archéologie orientale (Ifao) et le ministère égyptien de l’Archéologie. Il bénéficie de l’expertise du musée du Louvre et de plusieurs institutions scientifiques françaises, notamment l’Université de Montpellier et le Centre interdisciplinaire de Conservation et Restauration du Patrimoine (CICRP), ainsi que le Fonds Khéops pour l’Archéologie. Ce projet a également reçu le soutien de la Direction générale des Patrimoines du ministère français de la Culture. réaménagement du site de Sân al-Hagar », alYawm al-Sâbi‘, 17 avril ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « La France approuve un projet franco-égyptien de coopération pour la mise en valeur du site de Sân al-Hagar », Sada al-Balad, 17 avril). - - Jeudi 18 avril 2019 Wall painting depicting the deceased in different positions. Photo courtesy of the Ministry of Antiquities The serenity of the Saqqâra Necropolis near Cairo was disturbed this week as Minister of Antiquities Khâlid al-‘Inânî, actress Yusrâ, and a group of 52 ambassadors and cultural attachés of foreign, Arab and African countries flocked to the archaeological site to visit the newly discovered tomb of a dignitary named Khuwy who lived during the reign of the FifthDynasty Pharaoh Djedkare. Un comité de pilotage franco-égyptien a été constitué, qui se réunira prochainement sur le site de Sân al-Hagar pour lancer officiellement les travaux, qui se poursuivront jusqu’à la fin de l’année 2020. Comptant parmi les plus importantes découvertes de l’égyptologie, la ville de Tanis fait l’objet de fouilles françaises régulières depuis 1929. Depuis 1965, la MFFT est en charge de l’étude du site, qu’elle poursuit aujourd’hui sous l’égide de l’École Pratique des Hautes Études (EPHE) et de l’Institut français d’archéologie orientale. (Samar alNaggâr, « Lancement d’un projet francoégyptien de coopération pour la mise en valeur du site de Sân al-Hagar », al-Masrî alYawm, 17 avril 2019. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « Lancement d’un projet francoégyptien de coopération pour le BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Yusrâ had come to explore the necropolis and enjoy a special visit to the exceptional painted tomb of Khuwy, recently uncovered by an Egyptian archaeological mission. She described the visit as “thrilling and exciting” 163 Avril 2019 and promised not to miss any other visits organised by the ministry in future, praising its efforts to preserve Egypt’s antiquities and make new discoveries. “Although the tomb’s discovery was announced earlier this month, its distinguished wall paintings and the vivid colours of its scenes encouraged the media to ask for a special tour inside its two small halls,” al-‘Inânî said. He said that it was the fifth time he had visited Saqqâra in last nine months to attend the announcement of the discoveries of a mummification workshop, the tomb of the Fifth-Dynasty priest Kakai, the Wahti tomb, a cat necropolis, and the opening of tomb of Mehu for the first time since its discovery. During his speech on the present visit, al‘Inânî announced that on 18 April Egypt would celebrate World Heritage Day in Luxor by announcing two new discoveries in al-‘Asâsîf and the Dirâ‘ Abû al-Nagâ Necropolis on Luxor’s west bank, as well as witnessing the completion of the restoration of the Ramses II colossus at the first pylon of the Luxor Temple. Mustafa Wazîrî, secretary-general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities (SCA), said that the newly discovered tomb belonged to a Fifth-Dynasty dignitary named Khuwy and had been discovered during an excavation and documentation survey carried out in Saqqâra by an Egyptian mission led by Muhammad Migâhid and members of the Czech Institute of Egyptology at Charles University in Prague. The tomb was not the only item the mission had uncovered, he said, as it had also discovered the name of the queen to whom a pyramid complex in the area belonged. The tomb consists of a superstructure with an L-shaped offering chamber, which was once decorated with reliefs. “Only the bottom part of the decoration is preserved, as the white limestone blocks of the other parts were re-used in the construction of other buildings in antiquity,” Wazîrî told Al-Ahram Weekly. On the north wall of the tomb, the mission located the entrance to a unique substructure, which is for the first time clearly inspired by the design of the substructures of the royal pyramids of the Fifth Dynasty. This part of the tomb starts with a descending corridor that leads to a vestibule. An entrance in its southern wall gives access to a decorated antechamber with scenes depicting the tomb owner sitting in front of an offering table on the south and north walls. An offering list is depicted on the east wall and a palace façade on the west wall. He also announced that on the day all museums and archaeological sites in Egypt would be open for free to all Egyptians, Africans, Arabs and foreigners living in Egypt. BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 164 Avril 2019 The mission located the undecorated burial chamber through two entrances in the west wall of the antechamber of the tomb. “It seems that the space of the burial chamber was almost completely filled with a limestone sarcophagus, which was found entirely destroyed by ancient tomb robbers,” Migâhid said. However, he added that the mission had discovered the remains of Khuwy, which showed clear traces of mummification. An entrance in the south wall of the decorated antechamber leads to a small room, most likely used as a storeroom. The mission found this room to be filled with debris, with no finds of value. “The discovery of this tomb stresses the importance of Djedkare’s reign and the end of the Fifth Dynasty in general,” Migâhid said. ANOTHER FIND: He added that in cooperation with an international team of Egyptologists, the mission had also discovered the name of an ancient Egyptian queen who lived during the late Fifth Dynasty in the same pyramid complex. “The mission found the name of queen Setibhor, who had not been known before from ancient sources, engraved on a column in the south part of the until-now anonymous pyramid complex,” Migâhid told the Weekly. He said that the complex was located by the pyramid of king Djedkare in south Saqqâra, and the identity of its owner had been a puzzle that Egyptologists had been trying to solve for decades. The name and titles of the owner of this unique monument was found on a column made of red granite in the newly uncovered portico of the queen’s complex. The inscription was carved in sunken relief in a rectangle on the shaft of the column, and it reads “the one who sees Horus and Seth, the great one of the hetes sceptre, the great one of praise, the king’s wife, his beloved Setibhor.” The column and limestone blocks and fragments bearing relief decorations from the temple of the queen were found during BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 exploration and documentation work in the pyramid complex of king Djedkare. The pyramid complex of queen Setibhor is one of the earliest pyramids in south Saqqâra built at the end of the Fifth Dynasty, and it is the largest pyramid complex built for a queen during the Old Kingdom. Her funerary temple incorporates architectural elements and chambers that were otherwise reserved for the kings of the Old Kingdom only. The large size of the pyramid complex and her title of queen may indicate her intervention in helping her husband Djedkare ascend the throne of Egypt at the end of the Fifth Dynasty. It seems that Djedkare wanted to honour his wife by constructing a huge pyramid complex for her with many unusual features, including palmiform granite columns, an architectural element so far known only in the pyramid complexes of kings. Migâhid said the mission had also completed the architectural restoration and consolidation of the substructure of the king’s pyramid, which had not been the object of restoration work before. The work was a vital task for the mission, he added. The mission focuses on the pyramid complexes of Djedkare and his wife Setibhor and their associated cemeteries, and it hopes to obtain more information on the end of the Fifth Dynasty and the beginning of the sixth. This period witnessed a radical transformation in ancient Egyptian religious beliefs, such as the appearance of the Pyramid Texts for the first time inside the pyramid of king Unas, the successor of Djedkare, and also the end of the practice of constructing sun temples, which all the Fifth Dynasty predecessors of Djedkare had done. Migâhid said that Djedkare’s reign was the longest of the Fifth Dynasty and in many ways the most significant. He had built his pyramid complex in south Saqqâra, on the way between the Third-Dynasty Step Pyramid and the Fourth-Dynasty pyramids at Dahshûr, and several kilometres to the south of the royal cemetery of his predecessors in Abûsîr and the central Saqqâra area where the pyramid 165 Avril 2019 complexes of Userkaf and possibly Menkauhor were established, he said. Djedkare had decided to start a new royal cemetery in a place that had not previously been used for royal burials. This royal cemetery was later used in the Sixth Dynasty, where the Pharaohs Pepi I and Merenre together with their families constructed burial monuments nearby. “The question why Djedkare moved to this new area has not been satisfactorily answered,” Migâhid said. (Nevine El-Aref, “A visit to Saqqâra”, Al-Ahram Weekly, April 18, 2019. Voir également Radwa Hâshim, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie annonce la découverte d’une tombe exceptionnelle au sud de Saqqâra », alWatan, 2 avril ; “Retaining Detailed Reliefs, Fifth Dynasty Tomb Uncovered in Saqqâra”, Egyptian Streets, April 2; MENA, « Découverte de la tombe de Khuwy au Sud de Saqqâra », al-Dustûr, 2 avril ; Nevine ElAref, “Egyptian antiquities minister takes ambassadors to visit newly discovered tomb in Saqqâra”, Ahram Online, April 13 ; AFP, “Egypt unveils colourful Fifth Dynasty tomb”, Egypt Independent, April 14 ; Doaa Elhami, « Du Delta à la Haute-Égypte, encore des trouvailles », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 17 avril). - - Wazîrî said the discovery was “very important” because it will change the archaeological and historical map of the site as well as providing a new understanding of the architecture and design of individuals’ tombs in Dhirâ‘ Abû al-Nagâ. Prime Minister Mustafa Madbûlî was at the event where the new discovery was announced, as were a number of other ministers, the governor of Luxor, and several MPs. Madbûlî spoke at the event, saying the discovery showed the greatness of the Egyptians and their unique civilisation. Minister of Antiquities Khâlid al-‘Inânî told Ahram Online that the announcement of the new discovery and the restoration and reerection of Ramses II’s statue at Luxor Temple is “Egypt’s gift to the world” on World Heritage Day, which falls on Thursday. He said that the saff tomb belonged to a holder of the king’s funerary cones named Shedsu-Djehuty. Egypt Today/Mustafa Marie The discovery of a new saff tomb in the Dhirâ‘ Abû al-Nagâ necropolis on the West Bank of Luxor was announced by Egyptian officials on Thursday. “It is the biggest ‘saff’ tomb to be ever discovered in the Theban necropolis,” said Mostafa Wazîrî, secretary-general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities. BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Restoration works started inside the new tomb, Egypt The tomb’s findings included a number of Ushabti statues, Egypt 166 Avril 2019 Today/Mustafa Marie Today/Mustafa Marie The tomb has painted walls with scenes depicting the deceased before the gods and scenes showing daily life, the fabrication of wooden boats, hunting and fishing. Pots and ushabti figurines made of faience, clay and wood were also unearthed, as were canopic jars and an anthropoid cartonage sarcophagus. restored by 250 archaeological missions over eight months, announced Head of Luxor Antiquities department of the Ministry of Antiquities Mustafa Wazîrî in celebration at Luxor Temple on the World Heritage Day, Thursday. “The Egyptian missions is who accomplished that! [the restoration],” he said, adding “here we are today announcing the restoration of the fourth Ramses II statue after its restoration.” He added that the state is the fourth one belongs to Ramses II at the temple. “This is Luxor’s gift to the entire world on the World Heritage Day!” Wazîrî said. “We faced some many troubles but we overcame them just like the pharaohs overcame their obstacles and built the greatest monuments in the world […] We did it! We are the Egyptians who did it!” he continued. The decorated corridor Saff tombs are rock-hewn tombs from the 11th Dynasty. (Nevine El-Aref, “Egypt unveils newly discovered saff tomb in Luxor”, Ahram Online, April 18, 2019. Voir également Muhammad Ibrâhîm, « Le Premier ministre inaugure la plus grande tombe découverte sur la rive Ouest de Louqsor », al-Dustûr, 18 avril ; Mustafa Marie, “Egypt announces tomb discovery at Luxor’s Dhirâ‘ Abû al-Nagâ necropolis”, Egypt Today, April 18 ; “Biggest Saff Tomb Discovered in Luxor”, Egyptian Streets, April 19 ; Rana Gohar, « Une tombe et d’autres trouvailles archéologiques », AlAhram Hebdo du 24 avril). - The celebration was attended by Prime Minister Mustafa Madbûlî, Minister of Tourism Rânyâ al-Mashât, Minister of Culture Înâs ‘Abd al-Dâyim, dozens of people, celebrities, and more than 40 diplomats. Egyptian Folklore show was performed prior to unveiling Ramses II statue in inside Luxor Temple. Egypt Today/Mustafa Marie Former Minister of Antiquities Zâhî Hawwâs told the attendees that he was honoured to celebrate the World Heritage Day in Luxor, saying “For the first time we see a prime minister attends World Heritage Day celebration in Egypt!” Egypt Today/Mustafa Marie Egypt unveiled a new statue of Ramses II (1279-1213 BCE) Luxor Temple on Thursday after being restored. The 50-ton statue was broken into more than 50 pieces and was BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 “I thank President Sîsî for giving big attention to antiquities,” said Hawwâs. (Mustafa Marie, “Egypt unveils Ramses II statue at Luxor Temple”, Egypt Today, April 18, 2019. Voir également Mira Meged, 167 Avril 2019 “Egypt’s King Ramses II unveiled on World Heritage Day”, Egypt Independent, April 19). - - On Thursday morning, Prime Minister Mustafa Madbûlî inaugurated the largest “lineup” cemetery in the West Bank, Luxor. (…) Secretary General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities Mustafa Wazîrî said this archaeological discovery will explain some ideas and concepts related to the planning of the graves of individuals in the area of Dhirâ‘ Abû al-Nagâ. An Egyptian archaeological mission headed by Wazîrî removed the rubble accumulated by work of foreign missions for more than 200 years, leading to the discovery of the cemetery, Wazîrî said. The mission discovered during excavation a complete compartment made of bricks and a well in the courtyard of the “line-up” cemetery, he said, pointing out that it is the first full compartment found in the Theban Necropolis. The compartment is a complete example of a mud-brick cemetery with a small stone courtyard and a deep well in the middle. Preliminary studies have shown that it is more likely to be dated to the Ramses kings’ era. He pointed out that the mission also found six other graves below the courtyard of the ”line-up” cemetery. One of the graves was opened, believed to belong to a person named Chesb, who was the registrar of the King’s warehouse. Other artifacts were found, including a large collection of Ushabti statues of different sizes and shapes and made of blue Egyptian faience and wood, a complex mask of cartonage (layers of linen and papyrus covered with plaster), and more than 50 funeral seals for people whose graves have not yet been found, Wazîrî mentioned. A papyrus written in hieratic script and wrapped in linen in addition to a coin of copper-plated bronze dating back to King BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Ptolemy II era and a set of pottery ostracon were also found. Among discovered artifacts was the upper part of a bowl cover made of limestone in the shape of a monkey representing the god Habi, one of the four sons of Horus. The cemetery has colourful and clear scenes on its entrance columns, bearing texts in which the name of the cemetery’s owner is recorded as well as his titles. He was titled the hereditary prince, the mayor, the butler, the holder of the seal of the king of Lower Egypt, and the holder of the seal of the king of Upper Egypt. It also depicted fishing scenes, birds that maintained their bright colours, a funeral procession, and other images. The cemetery is fronted by a very large courtyard with a width of 55 meters leading to a cemetery of 18 entrances, which is the largest number of entrances of a cemetery in Theban Necropolis, said German researcher Fredrica CAMP, who is in charge of recording the cemetery. The maximum number of entrances to a cemetery discovered in a Theban Necropolis cemetery is between 11 and 13, according to CAMP. It is the first cemetery in the Theban Necropolis to have a marital rather than an individual number of entrances. In its northern part, there is a well at a depth of about 11 meters, and in its southern corner there is another well of almost the same depth, she said. According to CAMP, the cemetery dates back to the 17th Dynasty and was reused at the beginning of the 18th Dynasty until the age of Queen Hatshepsut. The owner of the cemetery likely served under the reign of King Thutmose I. (“PM inaugurates significant recently discovered cemetery in Luxor”, Egypt Independent, April 18, 2019). - 168 Avril 2019 Samedi 20 avril 2019 Coffin of Taosiris. Akhmîm. Egyptian. Late Period, 722-332 BC. Wood, pigment. Gift of the Georges RICARD Foundation. Le Michael C. Carlos Museum d’Atlanta a annoncé son intention d’exposer près de 1 500 pièces archéologiques égyptiennes. Cette vaste collection comprend des cercueils d’époque tardive, des momies, quelques masques funéraires dorés, des statuettes en bronze de divinités égyptiennes, ainsi qu’une collection de verres anciens. Cette collection a été rassemblée dans les années soixante-dix par l’homme d’affaires français, Georges RICARD. Avant d’arriver au Michael C. Carlos Museum, elle a été exposée au Musée de l’Égypte et du Monde Antique à Monaco. Pour des problèmes liés à la conservation, ce musée a fermé ses portes après quelques années. Dans les années soixante-dix, la collection a alors quitté Monaco, lorsque la famille RICARD a déménagé à Santa Barbara, en Californie. À partir de 1997, Georges RICARD et son fils Yann ont mis en ligne cette collection en tant que Musée égyptien virtuel. Après le décès de RICARD, le Conseil d’administration de la Fondation Georges RICARD a choisi le Michael C. Carlos Museum comme lieu d’accueil permanent pour la collection Senusret. Rendez-vous le 18 mai prochain pour admirer ces magnifiques œuvres d’art, présentées aux visiteurs pour la première fois depuis la fin des années soixante-dix. (Basant Gamîl, « 1 500 pièces archéologiques égyptiennes exposées au Michael C. Carlos Museum », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 20 avril 2019). - - BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Polish Minister of Foreign Affairs Jacek CZAPUTOWICZ and his accompanying delegation visited on Monday the Gîza Pyramids during their two-day visit to Egypt. Egyptian archaeologist Zâhî Hawwâs received the Polish delegation and took them on a tour in the archaeological area. Hawwâs denied all rumours about a hidden city under the Sphinx, assuring that such news is not based on scientific evidence. “We have a lot of photos that document the process of digging under the Sphinx proving that there are no passages under the Sphinx and that it is a concrete statue,” Hawwâs stated. Hawwâs affirmed the presence of three tunnels; the first exists above the back of the statue and was discovered in 1937 by the French engineer BERING who was searching for treasures inside the body of the statue. While the second tunnel was found at the north side of the statue before it was drowned by French Egyptologist GUPINO. It was believed that the tunnel was full of treasures and monuments. The third tunnel exists behind “The Dream Portrait” and was found by the Italian adventurer KAVLIAIN the early 19th century when he was digging under the chest of Sphinx. For his part, CZAPUTOWICZ admired the Egyptian monuments. At the end of the tour, Hawwâs gave CZAPUTOWICZ his book about Gîza. (Fatma El-Bakry, “Hawwâs affirmed the presence of three tunnels inside Sphinx”, Egypt Today, April 20, 2019. Voir également Samar al-Naggâr, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie reçoit le ministre polonais des Affaires étrangères », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 15 169 Avril 2019 avril ; Ahmad Mansûr, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie reçoit le ministre polonais des Affaires étrangères pour renforcer la coopération bilatérale », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 15 avril ; “Zâhî Hawwâs accompanies Polish foreign minister on Gîza pyramids tour”, Egypt Independent, April 15 ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie examine avec le ministre polonais des Affaires étrangères la coopération bilatérale », Sada al-Balad, 15 avril). - - L’archéologue Dr Zâhî Hawwâs a voté pour le référendum sur la révision constitutionnelle. À cette occasion, il a comparé le président ‘Abd al-Fattâh al-Sîsî au général Horemheb qui avait sauvé l’Égypte à la fin des règnes d’Akhenaton et de Toutankhamon. (Ahmad Mansûr, « Hawwâs vote pour le référendum constitutionnel et compare al-Sîsî à Horemheb », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 20 avril 2019. Voir également ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Hawwâs vote pour le référendum constitutionnel », Sada al-Balad, 20 avril). - - Lundi 22 avril 2019 Egypt’s Minister of Antiquities Khâlid al‘Inânî said on Monday that the number of foreign missions working in Egypt in the field of archaeological excavation has risen to an unprecedented number. BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 During the inauguration of the fourth forum of archaeological missions in Egypt, the minister said that some 250 missions from 25 countries, including 80 Egyptian missions, are working at many archaeological sites across the country. The minister said that the forum gives a chance for all missions to exchange expertise in the field of excavation, pointing out that a total of 23 researches had been exchanged. Experts from France, Germany, Poland, Austria, Italy, the United States, Switzerland and other countries attended the forum. (MENA, “250 archaeological missions from 25 countries work in Egypt: Minister”, Ahram Online, April 22, 2019. Voir également Fâdî Francis, « al-‘Inânî : 250 missions archéologiques étrangères opèrent en Égypte depuis le retour de la sécurité », al-Masrî alYawm, 22 avril ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « al-‘Inânî : Le nombre des missions archéologiques opérant en Égypte est en augmentation grâce au retour de la sécurité », Sada al-Balad, 22 avril ; Muhammad ‘Abd al-Mu‘tî, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie : 250 missions archéologiques étrangères opèrent en Égypte. Une augmentation sans précédent », alAhrâm, 23 avril). - - A huge parade was hosted in al-Mu‘izz Street on April 21, as part of the International Festival of Drums and Traditional Arts’ seventh edition headed by artist Intisâr ‘Abd al-Fattâh. Crowds gathered from al-Futûh Gate to alGhûriyya Street to watch more than 22 bands representing numerous cultures in the festival, led by the cavalry and Hassab Allah band. The bands performed national songs that inflamed 170 Avril 2019 the feelings and enthusiasm of the masses, followed by a circus show where distinguished and delightful forms of performances were presented. in a rock dating back to the Greco-Roman era. Secretary-General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities Mustafa Wazîrî stated that a wooden coffin containing hieroglyphic text was found inside the tomb, through which the mission was able to identify the name of the ancient graveyard. Head of the Egyptian Antiquities Department Ayman al-‘Ashmâwî pointed out that the cemetery consists of a ladder that leads to a side chamber where a rock-cut coffin, a front stone consisting of a group of mummies in a poor state and three nests were found. In addition, the audience enjoyed the numerous cultural shows presented by the bands. The cultural bands represented China, Colombia, Ghana, India, Sri Lanka, Palestine, Congo, Greece, Jordan, Mexico, Indonesia, South Sudan and Egypt. The teams gathered in a theatre specially designed for them to present their traditional and rhythmic arts and the audience participated in singing and dancing with them. The parade ended with the Egyptian National anthem "Bilâdî" for Sayyid Darwîsh. (Mustafa Marie, “al-Mu‘izz St. hosts a huge folklore parade on April 21”, Egypt Today, April 22, 2019. Voir également « 22 troupes internationales se produisent dans la rue alMu‘izz », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 22 avril). - - Mardi 23 avril 2019 The discovered cemetery The Egyptian-Italian archaeological mission operating in the Aga Khan cemetery in western Aswân found an ancient tomb carved BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 For her part, Head of the mission Patrizia PIACENTINI said that many important archaeological artifacts dating back to the Greco-Roman era were also discovered, including a large collection of cartons. PIACENTINI added that the archaeological mission has also completed a map of the site including 226 ancient cemeteries in the area. (Mustafa Marie, “New tomb discovered in Aga Khan Cemetery in West Aswân”, Egypt Today, April 23, 2019. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « Mise au jour à l’ouest d’Aswân d’une tombe d’époque gréco-romaine contenant des masques dorés », al-Yawm alSâbi‘, 23 avril ; « Découverte d’une tombe gréco-romaine à l’ouest d’Aswân », al-Masrî alYawm, 23 avril ; Sanâ’ Fârûq, « Découverte d’une tombe gréco-romaine à l’ouest d’Aswân », Watanî, 23 avril ; Muhammad ‘Abd al-Mu‘tî, « Mise au jour à Aswân d’une tombe d’époque gréco-romaine », al-Ahrâm, 24 avril). - 171 Avril 2019 Mercredi 24 avril 2019 Le Parquet d’Aswân a ouvert une instruction judiciaire contre quatre touristes britanniques arrêtés à l’aéroport d’Aswân en possession de quelques pièces archéologiques. Une statuette antique et dixsept fragments de poterie étaient dissimulés dans leurs bagages. Ces quatre touristes s’apprêtaient à rentrer à Londres à bord d’un jet privé. (‘Awad Silîm, « 4 étrangers mis en examen pour tentative d’exportation illicite d’antiquités à travers l’aéroport d’Aswân », alTahrîr, 24 avril 2019. Voir également Muhammad al-Aswânî, «4 touristes britanniques interrogés par le Parquet d’Aswân », Watanî, 24 avril ; Hasan Kâmil, « Les douaniers de l’aéroport d’Aswân saisissent une statuette et des tessons », alDustûr, 24 avril). - - Jeudi 25 avril 2019 Some opposed the placement of the colossus before the first pylon of the temple. They said the colossus had the Osirian position (crossing the hands on the chest), which contradicts with neighbouring colossi, who have their left legs before the right. The latter, opponents asserted, are the original colossi that stand before the façade of any temple. “The colossus of Ramses II is in its original location, as restorers have just restored the colossus and re-erected it in the location where its blocks were found,” asserted Ahmad ‘Arabî, director of Luxor Temple. ‘Arabî told Ahram Online that the façade of Luxor Temple had two original architectural designs. The first was drawn during its construction at the beginning of King Ramses II’s reign, and the second was drawn during the end of the monarchy of King Ramses II. The original design, ‘Arabî continues, is drawn behind the eastern pylon on the left entrance and it shows the façade with two seated colossi of the king and two obelisks, which is the characteristic design of all temples of the New Kingdom. The newer design is drawn on the southwestern side of the façade and it shows six colossi and two obelisks. The façade of Luxor Temple with six statues of Ramses II The newly restored colossus of King Ramses II at Luxor Temple has been placed in its original location according to the original layout of the Temple. American Egyptologist Ray JOHNSON, a specialist at Luxor Temple who restored the colossus in collaboration with Egyptians counterparts, says that the statue has been placed in its correct location and has the right body pose. With the last colossus of Ramses II restored and erected to re-join its five counterparts at Luxor Temple, debate on its location and restoration was sparked among Egyptologists. BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 “The façade had two colossi originally and then four other statues were added at the end of King Ramses II’s reign to extend the number to six colossi,” ‘Arabî pointed out. He asserted that the restored colossus is the one that whose blocks were uncovered by Egyptologist Muhammad ‘Abd al-Qâdir along with the blocks of other colossi of the Luxor Temple’s facade between 1958 and 1960. All these statues were destroyed due to a destructive earthquake that had hit the country in antiquity. ‘Abd al-Qâdir was able to collect all the blocks and pieces of the colossi and put the ones of each colossus on a wooden base in its original location to ensure its protection. In a scientific newsletter, of which Ahram Online obtained a copy, ‘Abd alQâdir wrote that one of the statues he found 172 Avril 2019 before the temple’s facade was in the Osirian position. ‘Arabî suggested that the statue could has been transferred from another place inside the temple, maybe at the end of Ramses II’s reign, to decorate the façade of the temple. He explained that several Osirian statues decorate the façade of ancient Egyptian temples. The western façade of Luxor Temple has two Osirian colossi. In the first court of Karnak Temple there is a gigantic colossus of King Ramses II in Osirian form. JOHNSON shared his opinion on the restored colossus with Ahram Online and said that the reliefs of the Luxor Temple pylon façade at the back of the first court, that depicts the pylons, two obelisks, flagpoles, and statues, were carved before the statues were put in place and reflect the original plan that was never completely carried out. The original plan seems to have been for all the pylon colossal sculptures to be original grey granodiorite statues of Ramses II, striding and seated. But, he continued, for some reason that plan changed, perhaps to meet Ramses II’s deadline for completion, and two earlier red granite statues were brought in and inscribed for Ramses II, one for the far east side and one for the far west side. The westernmost colossus, still standing, was originally Amenhotep III, and is also different: it had a white crown, not a double crown, and is also red granite. “The easternmost red granite colossus, that was just reassembled with the financial support of Chicago House and the US Embassy, was a late 18th Dynasty colossal statue, possibly of Horemheb (the face is reworked),” JOHNSON said. He continued that the pieces of the statue that survive indicate that it was in the Osirian pose. The base of the statue that was still in situ was too small for a striding statue, which indicates that the statue was standing and not striding. “The reconstruction, and original position, are 100 percent correct,” JOHNSON confirmed, BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 adding that sometimes plans change, even in ancient Egypt. Inside the first court, Ramses II’s colossal statues, inscribed with the early form of his name (Ra-ms-ss), were placed alongside Amenhotep III’s statues (the original Ramses II statues do not have bull tails between their legs, while the original Amenhotep III statues all have bull tails between their legs). When Ramses II erected the statues there, the original names of Amenhotep III were left intact, because Ramses II wanted to be associated with the glorious king who built third of Luxor Temple. Later, JOHNSON continued, just before Ramses II’s first jubilee, he changed his mind and erased Amenhotep III’s names and re-inscribed the colossi with his own name, in the later form (Ra-ms-sw), taking over their identity. All of Ramses II’s original statues in the first court are inscribed with the early form of Ramses’ name, while the original Amenhotep III statues are inscribed with Ramses II’s later name. “This tells us that he didn’t appropriate the Amenhotep III statues until many years after he placed them in the court,” JOHNSON said. “Another change of plan.” JOHNSON asserted that the outermost colossal statues in red granite on the far eastern and far western sides of the pylons were both part of a revised plan for the pylon façade, and that the reconstruction is correct. Egyptian restorers have done an extraordinary job, he said, and have brought the Luxor Temple pylon façade back to glorious life. All Egyptian temples of the New Kingdom were decorated in a similar manner, but Luxor Temple is now the only temple in Egypt that has all six of its original colossal sculptures in their original places. “Congratulation to the Supreme Council of Antiquities, the Ministry of Antiquities, and to Egypt for this wonderful work," JOHNSON said. (Nevine El-Aref, “Newly restored Ramses II colossus placed in correct location at Luxor Temple: Egyptologist”, Ahram Online, April 25, 2019. Voir également ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Trois archéologues étrangers confirment l’emplacement de la statue de Ramsès II », 173 Avril 2019 Sada al-Balad, 20 avril ; Zâhî Hawwâs, “Ramses returns”, Al-Ahram Weekly, April 25; Rana Gohar, « Une tombe et d’autres trouvailles archéologiques », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 24 avril ; Ahmad Mar‘î, « Polémique autour de l’emplacement de la statue de Ramsès II », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 24 avril ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « La restauration et l’emplacement de la statue de Ramsès II suscitent une contreverse. Réponse du ministère de l’Archéologie », Sada al-Balad, 24 avril). - - For the third consecutive year, Egypt celebrated World Heritage Day in Luxor again this year with a number of archaeological events that caught the headlines of the international and local press. The discovery of the biggest “saff” tomb in the Dhirâ‘ Abû al-Nagâ Necropolis on the west bank, the re-erection of a colossal statue of Ramses II after restoration in front of the façade of the Luxor Temple, and the opening of the Opet Temple to the public for the first time since its discovery were the icing on the cake of celebrations attended by Prime Minister Mustafa Madbûlî and Minister of Antiquities Khâlid al-‘Inânî along with the ministers of culture, tourism, manpower, and health and population. al-‘Inânî inaugurated the Opet Temple, opening it to visitors for the first time since its discovery and after restoration. The original paintings on the temple’s walls were revealed after being hidden for decades under bird deposits, dust, and the smoke of oil-burning during the Coptic era when the Temple was used as a church. Tourism Minister Rânyâ al-Mashât attended the inauguration ceremony as well as Usâma BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Haykal, head of the Media, Culture and Antiquities Committee in Parliament. “The temple was first built during the New Kingdom in the reign of the 18th-Dynasty and was completed in the Late Period and the Ptolemaic Period,” Wazîrî said. He added that the temple was dedicated to the worship of hippopotamus goddess Opet, the deity of protection in ancient Egypt, “who was also considered the torch bearer goddess that lit up the afterlife”. The Opet Temple is characterised by its colourful inscriptions, covered by soot until this was carefully removed during the restoration process. (Nevine El-Aref, “Celebrating World Heritage”, Al-Ahram Weekly, April 25, 2019. Voir également Muhammad al-Samkûrî, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie inaugure le temple d’Opet », alMasrî al-Yawm, 19 avril ; Mustafa Marie, “Egypt’s Ministers, celebrities celebrate World Heritage Day at Karnak”, Egypt Today, April 19 ; Mustafa Marie, “Egypt inaugurates newlyrestored Opet Temple in Luxor”, Egypt Today, April 19 ; Mira Meged, “Minister of Antiquities opens Opet Temple in Luxor”, Egypt Independent, April 20 ; Rana Gohar, « Une tombe et d’autres trouvailles archéologiques », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 24 avril). - - Lundi 29 avril 2019 Uncovered mummies This mission has discovered till now around 300 tombs in the Aswân West Bank area. The uncovered tomb contained various artefacts, including a statuette of a bird, various vases, 174 Avril 2019 and a stretcher that was probably used to bring mummies into the tomb. Writing found on parts of a coffin in the tomb showed clearly both a series of prayers to different goddess as well as the name of the tomb’s owner Tjt. Tjt tomb has a main room that housed 30 mummies, including young children who were lying together in a long, sideways alcove. Archaeological mission head Patrizia PIACENTINI said that among the mummies were two that were ‘superimposed’ and thought to be that of a mother and child. The pair were extracted still covered in painted cartonnage, a type of mummy covering which is formed from chunks of linen or papyrus which have been glued together. Secretary-General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities Mustafa Wazîrî stated that a wooden coffin containing hieroglyphic text was found inside the tomb, through which the mission was able to identify the name of the ancient graveyard. Wazîrî added that the tomb also contained parts of two painted wooden coffins. One of the fragmented coffins presented a complete text, detailing the name of the tomb’s owner, Tjt, and prayers to the gods of the Nile’s First Cataract — Anuket, Khnum and Satet — along with Hapi, the god of the annual Nile floods. Leaning up against the north wall of the tomb’s interior was an intact stretcher which, archaeologists believe, may have been used to bring the mummies into the tomb in the first place. It was made of palm wood connected by linen strips. leads to a side chamber where a rock-cut coffin, a front stone consisting of a group of mummies in a poor state and three nests were found. The mission also recovered many amphorashaped jugs, ritual offering vases and some vessels which still contained food. Vessels containing bitumen that was used in the mummification process, a lamp, and white cartonnage that was ready to be painted were all found near the entrance to the burial chambers. In addition, the team found many other vividly coloured and gilded cartonnages, parts of gold-painted funeral masks and a wellpreserved statuette of a Ba-bird. In Ancient Egyptian mythology, the Ba-bird represents the soul of a deceased individual, which was believed to fly out the person’s tomb to join their vital essence in the afterlife. Authorities have dated the tomb back to the Graeco-Roman period, which began when Alexander the Great conquered Egypt out from under Persian rule in 332 BC. The tomb is located near one of Aswân’s major landmarks, the Mausoleum of the Aga Khan III, Sir Sultan Muhammed Shah. This religious leader lobbied for Muslim rights in India, and was buried in Egypt near the sight of his former winter-time villa two years after his death in 1957. To date, the mission has mapped around 300 individual tombs in the area around the Mausoleum of the Aga Khan. The tombs all date between the 6th Century BC and the 4th Century AD. 25 tombs have been excavated by the archaeologists in the previous three years alone. “Daily Mail highlights Tjt tomb discovery”, Egypt Today, April 29, 2019). - - Mardi 30 avril 2019 Head of the Egyptian Antiquities Department Ayman al-‘Ashmâwî pointed out that the cemetery consists of a ladder that BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Cairo International Airport’s customs authority seized on Monday large quantities of ammunition, blade weapons, coins, ancient swords and gemstones before they were smuggled in violation of the Weapons and 175 Avril 2019 Ammunition Law Protection Law. and the Antiquities The customs officer suspected a Gulf passenger coming from the Saudi Kingdom during inspection measures and asked him to pass his baggage through the X-ray machine, which revealed that the baggage contained opaque objects, the Customs Authority said. on the seizures and referred it to prosecution to complete the investigations. (“Cairo Airport seizes baggage containing ammunition, blade weapons, coins, swords, gemstones”, Egypt Independent, April 30, 2019. Voir également Hasan Kâmil, « Échec d’une tentative d’exportation illicite de pièces archéologiques à travers l’aéroport du Caire », al-Dustûr, 30 avril). The officer opened the baggage and found live ammunition, 8 blade weapons, 22 ancient coins, two ancient swords, and gemstones hidden between clothes. Head of the Central Administration of Passenger Customs at the Airport Ibrâhîm ‘Abd al-Latîf filed a custom smuggling report BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 - - 176 V – MAI 2019 Mercredi 1er mai 2019 A young man ascended to the top of Khufu pyramid this morning and threw stones at visitors in the archaeological area, al-Watan news website reported. Security forces failed to control the situation for two hours before the man was arrested. - - Le directeur général d’Aswân et de la Nubie, ‘Abd al-Mun‘im Sa‘îd, a annoncé l’achèvement du projet de développement de la zone archéologique du temple de Kalâbsha. Le parcours de la visite a été réaménagé à l’intérieur comme à l’extérieur du temple, afin d’en faciliter l’accès. Security services are currently questioning the man to find out the motive behind the act. The young infiltrator uprooted the triangle located at the top of the pyramid, said Ashraf Muhyî al-Dîn, director of the archaeological area of the pyramids, explaining that the man entered the archaeological area with an ordinary ticket before ascending to the top of the pyramid. (“Man throws stones at visitors from top of Khufu pyramid”, Egypt Independent, May 1st, 2019. Voir également Muhammad ‘Abd al-Galîl, « Le ministère de l’Intérieur dévoile l’identité de l’individu qui a escaladé la pyramide de Chéops », al-Watan, 1er mai ; Ahmad Mansûr, « Un jeune homme escalade la pyramide de Chéops et lance des pierres sur les visiteurs », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 1er mai ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie : L’individu a passé une heure au sommet de la pyramide de Chéops et l’incident n’a eu d’impact sur le tourisme », Sada al-Balad, 1er mai ; Bassâm Ramadân, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie : L’escalade de la pyramide de Chéops est interdite par le règlement », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 1er mai). BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Des panneaux signalétiques modernes ont été fixés dans différents endroits de l’île. Les toilettes publiques ont été rénovées. (Ahmad Mansûr, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie achève les travaux de réaménagement du temple de Kalâbsha », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 1er mai 2019). - - Egypt’s Tourism Minister Rânyâ al-Mashât declared during a phone interview with Extra News Channel that King Tut’s tomb will be displayed via hologram technology during the opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) by the end of 2020. 177 Mai 2019 al-Mashât stressed that the whole world is looking forward to the opening of the longawaited museum. The public awaits the viewing of King Tut, to be shown with all of his belongings including his mask. al-Mashât mentioned that these objects are always showcased with high technology in the façade of the Egyptian booth at international exhibitions. Breaking new ground, GEM aims to impress with King Tutankhamun displays that have never been shown before since the King’s unearthing in 1922. Hologram shows are facilitated by virtual technology that constructs three-dimensional images from the diffraction of light into an image, making for a lifelike structure. “We decided to focus on the quality, not the quantity; we should be present in various conspicuous exhibitions, but unique through distinctive promoting means,” al-Mashât said in the same interview, explaining that Egypt used to show up in many international exhibitions but not necessarily with a prestigious appearance. The GEM’s General Manager Târiq Tawfîq said in a previous interview with The Art Newspaper that the GEM accommodates two 7,000 square meter galleries revealing the king’s lifestyle – how he lived, dressed and ate will be shown alongside a complete collection of his precious belongings. Egypt’s presence in international exhibitions now combines authenticity with technology, depicting scenes with virtual reality among other advanced means. “Visitors at the Egyptian booths can wear 3D sunglasses to see themselves delving into Luxor’s archaeological sites or diving in Egypt’s Red Sea,” she added. Constructed on approximately 500,000 square meters, the mega museum is located nearby the Gîza Pyramids. The GEM is expected to be one of the largest museums in the entire world, presenting a heritage devoted to a single civilization. BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 After several years of examinations, restoration and transportation of monuments, the GEM is expected to house around 100,000 artifacts from various periods of Egypt’s rich, long history. Egypt’s Minister of Antiquities Khâlid al‘Inânî said that approximately 20,000 artifacts would be displayed exclusively for the first time. (Mira Maged, “GEM to display King Tut’s tomb with hologram technology during 2020 opening”, Egypt Independent, May 1st, 2019). - - Jeudi 2 mai 2019 Dr al-Tayyib ‘Abbâs Le ministre de l’Archéologie, Dr Khâlid al‘Inânî, a nommé Dr al-Tayyib ‘Abbâs au poste de directeur des affaires archéologiques du projet du Grand Musée Égyptien (GEM) pour une durée d’un an. Dr ‘Abbâs occupe actuellement les fonctions de vice-doyen de la faculté de Tourisme et d’Hôtellerie à l’université d’al-Minyâ. Il est titulaire d’une thèse de doctorat d’égyptologie de l’University of Liverpool. En 2012, il a bénéficié d’une bourse Fulbright pour son projet d’étude des sarcophages de la XXIe dynastie, découverts dans la cache de Bâb al-Qusus à al-Dayr alBaharî. En 2015, il a été chercheur associé à l’Institut français d’archéologie orientale (Ifao), puis correspondant scientifique. En 2017, il a été chef adjoint de la mission de fouilles conjointes entre l’université d’al-Minyâ et le ministère de l’Archéologie. Cette mission a mis au jour en 2019 une cache de momies dans la zone de Tûna al-Gabal. 178 Mai 2019 Enfin, Dr al-Tayyib ‘Abbâs est l’auteur de plusieurs articles scientifiques et ouvrages traitant des textes religieux et de la littérature du Moyen Empire. (Muhammad ‘Âtif, « alTayyib ‘Abbâs nommé directeur des affaires archéologiques du GEM », Masrâwî, 2 mai 2019. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie nomme al-Tayyib ‘Abbâs directeur des affaires archéologiques du GEM », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 2 mai ; MENA, “Tayyib ‘Abbâs named manager at GEM”, Egypt Today, May 2 ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « alTayyib nommé directeur des affaires archéologiques du GEM », Sada al-Balad, 2 mai). - - Samedi 4 mai 2019 Director of the Pyramids Archaeological Area Ashraf Muhyî al-Dîn uncovered that the final stage of the Gîza Plateau Development Project includes establishing a tourist walkway that connects the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) with the Pyramids area. During his inspection tour of the new visitors’ building in the Pyramids archaeological area, Muhyî al-Dîn said that the project of developing the Pyramids Plateau will be opened in the second half of 2019 with a cost of about EGP 500 million. The visitors’ building will group 12 ticket windows including two windows for people with special needs, four others for the Egyptian visitors and six for the foreigners along with three others for the students, Muhyî al-Dîn added. The building will also include a cinema hall that will accommodate 150 visitors who will be able to watch a movie highlighting the history of the archaeological area, Muhyî al-Dîn noted. Meanwhile, he shed light on the new student center that will have a view of the archaeological area. He underlined that the project aims to provide all amenities to the Egyptian and foreign visitors. (MENA, “Pyramids Plateau Development Project to be opened in late 2019”, Egypt Today, May 4, 2019. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « Muhyî al-Dîn : Le réaménagement du plateau de Gîza a coûté 500 millions de dollars », al-Yawm alSâbi‘, 4 mai ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Muhyî al-Dîn : Nous accueillerons 20 000 visiteurs par jour », Sada al-Balad, 4 mai). - Dimanche 5 mai 2019 Le Conseil d’administration du CSA a approuvé, lors de sa dernière réunion, l’ouverture nocturne du musée des Textiles égyptiens durant le mois de ramadan. Pour le même tarif diurne, le musée sera donc accessible aux visiteurs entre 20h30 et 24h. (Ahmad Mansûr, « Ouverture nocturne du musée des Textiles égyptiens durant le mois de ramadan », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 5 mai 2019. Voir également ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Ouverture nocturne du musée des Textiles égyptiens durant le mois de ramadan », Sada al-Balad, 5 mai ; « Ouverture nocturne du musée des Textiles égyptiens durant le mois de ramadan », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 5 mai). BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 - 179 Mai 2019 Lundi 6 mai 2019 De même, l’équipe cherche à s’assurer des causes de la mort de la reine Hatchepsout, à savoir si elle est morte suite à un cancer ou si elle a été assassinée. (« Voyages en bref », AlAhram Hebdo du 8 mai 2019). - Le ministre de l’Archéologie, Dr Khâlid al‘Inânî, a reçu l’ambassadeur du Japon au Caire, S.E.M. Masaki NOKE. L’entretien a porté sur le renforcement des relations bilatérales dans le domaine archéologique en général et à propos du Grand Musée Égyptien (GEM) en particulier. Les deux responsables ont examiné l’avancement des travaux architecturaux du GEM dont l’inauguration est prévue en 2020. L’ambassadeur du Japon a confirmé le soutien de son gouvernement à ce projet gigantesque et à la poursuite de la coopération archéologique entre les deux pays. (« Le ministre de l’Archéologie reçoit l’ambassadeur du Japon en Égypte », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 6 mai 2019. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie reçoit l’ambassadeur du Japon au Caire », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 6 mai ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « L’ambassadeur du Japon au Caire : Nous attachons une importance toute particulière à l’achèvement du projet du GEM », Sada alBalad, 6 mai). - - Mercredi 8 mai 2019 La Ve conférence internationale sur Toutankhamon, organisée par le Grand Musée Égyptien (GEM) a été tenue cette semaine à l’hôtel Méridien. Le grand égyptologue Zâhî Hawwâs a annoncé le début d’un grand projet national pour étudier une vingtaine de momies royales à travers le CT scan et le DNA cherchant un fil qui les a conduites à la découverte de la momie de Néfertiti ou celle d’Ankhesenamon, l’épouse de Toutankhamon. BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 - Le Musée national de Rio de Janeiro a annoncé la restauration de 200 pièces égyptiennes après avoir été ravagé par un incendie en septembre dernier. Avant ce sinistre, le Musée national de Rio de Janeiro possédait la plus grande collection égyptienne (700 pièces) dans toute l’Amérique latine, selon la chaîne satellitaire Sky News Arabia. Le directeur du musée a précisé que ces restaurations ont été effectuées grâce aux dons recueillis sur Internet et au soutien financier du gouvernement allemand. Les responsables du musée n’avaient pas de contact avec l’administration du président Jair BOLSONARO. Malheureusement, l’argent collecté sera bientôt épuisé. (« Le Brésil restaure 200 pièces égyptiennes après l’incendie de 2018 », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 8 mai 2019). - - Jeudi 9 mai 2019 The heat wave that hit Egypt this week did not prohibit Minister of Antiquities Khâlid al‘Inânî and former minister of antiquities Zâhî Hawwâs from heading to the south-eastern side of the Gîza Plateau, along with members of the Egyptian and international media, to announce a new discovery. 180 Mai 2019 ã Ahmed Romeih ã Reuters After the ascent of a small hill of sand, they arrived at a newly discovered cemetery where a collection of tombs and burial shafts had been uncovered during excavation work carried out by an Egyptian archaeological mission led by Mustafa Wazîrî, secretarygeneral of the Supreme Council of Antiquities (SCA). Many artefacts were discovered in the tomb, among the most significant being a fine limestone statue of one of the tomb’s owners, his wife and son. Ashraf Muhyî al-Dîn, director-general of the Gîza Plateau, said that the cemetery had been reused extensively during the Late Period (early seventh century BC), and therefore many wooden painted and decorated anthropoid coffins from this time had been discovered in other tombs along with wooden and clay funerary items. Some of the coffins bore the face of the deceased and were decorated with vertical lines of hieroglyphic inscriptions, he said. Burial shafts that served as communal graves were also identified at the site. Only three burials have thus far been excavated and cleaned. “The oldest one is a limestone double tomb from the Fifth Dynasty, which still retains some of its inscriptions and wall paintings,” Wazîrî told Al-Ahram Weekly, pointing out that the team had to remove 450 cubic metres of sand to reveal the tomb. He explained that the tomb belonged to two people. The first was Behnui-Ka, whose name has not been found before on the Gîza Plateau. He had seven titles, among them purifier of the kings Khafre, Userkaf and Niuserre, priest of the goddess Maat, and elder judge of the court. The second owner of the tomb was named Nwi, and he had five titles among them chief of the great state, overseer of the new settlements, and purifier of king Khafre. BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Hawwâs explained to the Weekly the importance of the site and how the Gîza Plateau was particularly significant as it was the place where the workmen’s cemetery was discovered, proving that the builders of the Pyramids were Egyptians and that they had not been slaves. They had been allowed to build their tombs for all eternity in the shadow of the Pyramids beside those of their kings, Hawwâs said. 181 Mai 2019 He pointed out that he had thought that the tombs of the Pyramid builders extended to the south-eastern side of the Plateau, but that the new discovery had disproved this idea and proved that the area and the people buried in it could be connected to the 26thDynasty priests’ cemetery located behind the Sphinx. “To discover a Fifth-Dynasty tomb within a 26 -Dynasty cemetery is very important for archaeology,” Hawwâs said, describing the tomb as small and beautiful. découverte à Gîza de la tombe de deux prêtres datant de l’Ancien Empire », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 4 mai ; Nevine El-Aref, “Old Kingdom tombs discovered on Egypt’s Gîza Plateau”, Ahram Online, May 4 ; MENA, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie : Découverte à Gîza d’une tombe double datant de la Ve dynastie », Sada al-Balad, 4 mai ; Samar al-Naggâr, « Nouvelle découverte archéologique sur le plateau de Gîza », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 4 mai ; Muhammad ‘Abd al-Mu‘tî, « Découverte d’une nécropole de l’Ancien Empire sur le plateau de Gîza », alAhrâm, 5 mai ; “Egypt’s archaeological mission discovers cemetery dated to the fifth dynasty”, Egypt Independent, May 5 ; Nasma Réda, « Sur la piste d’une nouvelle nécropole au pied des pyramides », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 8 mai). - - th “Making new discoveries in Egypt known worldwide is very important as it is the best way to promote Egypt abroad,” he added. Three days before the beginning of the holy month of Ramadan, the Ministry of Antiquities reopened three mosques in Cairo and Asyût to worshippers after restoration. al-‘Inânî said that the announcement of the new discoveries and archaeological projects carried out by the Ministry of Antiquities did not only have a scientific and archaeological value but was also important to promoting Egypt’s true image and culture abroad as an important source of its soft power. (Nevine ElAref, “New discovery on the Gîza Plateau”, AlAhram Weekly, May 9, 2019. Voir également Angy Essam, “A double tomb dating back to the fifth dynasty uncovered at Pyramids of Gîza”, Egypt Today, May 4; Ahmad Mansûr, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie annonce la BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 The first was the Fâtima al-Shaqrâ’ Mosque in the Bâb al-Khalq district of Cairo. The mosque was in a good condition as it had previously been restored, but the minaret was leaning by some 12cm. Restoration work on the minaret started two years ago in order to consolidate and straighten it. “It is the first time we have dismantled and reconstructed an historic minaret without missing any of the original stone blocks,” Muhammad ‘Abd al-‘Azîz, supervisor of the Historic Cairo Department at the ministry, told Al-Ahram Weekly. 182 Mai 2019 He added that the minaret had been reconstructed according to its original form and construction techniques after being hidden under wooden scaffolding for 23 years as a result of the earthquake that hit the country in 1992. masonry had been broken and water had leaked over its floors. Studies had been carried out to analyse the foundations and to document the minaret’s condition, he said. These had revealed an unstable level of water in the ground that had been responsible for the leaning of the minaret. The area’s drainage system had been repaired in order to guarantee the stability of the minaret in the future, ‘Abd al-‘Azîz said. The foundations of the minaret have now been consolidated. A new external lighting system has been installed as part of the restoration project. Gamâl Mustafa, head of Islamic, Coptic and Jewish Monuments at the ministry, said that the restoration work on the mosque was completed before the beginning of the minaret’s restoration and had included the floors, walls and ablution area. When the mosque’s minaret started to lean some 12 cm in 1992, the ministry stepped in to consolidate it with wooden and iron scaffolding. The restoration work then stopped until 2014 when work resumed on the mosque, without, however, treating the problem of the leaning minaret. But the masonry was repaired, the walls consolidated, and the cracks restored. The mosque’s minaret remained in a dangerous condition, and in 2014 the ministry appointed an archaeological committee to inspect its condition in order to undertake the restoration. The only remaining Mameluke elements of the Mosque that survive are the portal and the mihrâb. The rest of the Mosque, including the minaret, are Ottoman additions. The mosque was built in 1477 CE by Rashîd al-Dîn al-Bahâ‘î for Fâtima al-Shaqrâ’, the wife of the Mameluke sultan Qâytbây. During the Ottoman period, the mosque was renovated and renamed the Maraa Mosque, or “Women’s Mosque”, instead. The mosque contains two tombs, one dedicated to al-Shaqrâ’ and the other to an unknown person. Time has taken its toll on the mosque since its last restoration, and before its present rehabilitation cracks had spread in its walls, its BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 In the Upper Egyptian city of Asyût, the alMujahideen and al-Kâshif mosques were also reopened after restoration. 183 Mai 2019 Both were in a bad condition as their walls had cracked, masonry was damaged, and the condition of the ceilings and the floors was critical. The mosques had been closed to prayers and visitors. The foundations of both mosques were strengthened and protected against future damage through a micro-pile system involving the installation of sharp pointed columns beneath the mosques to reinforce their foundations. The walls were reinforced, cracks removed, missing and decayed stones replaced, and the masonry cleaned and desalinated. The mosques now stand as proudly as they did in the past. Mustafa said that all the restoration work had been carried out according to the latest methods. “Every effort was made to ensure that all the original architectural features were retained,” he said, adding that the restoration of the mosques should now preserve them for future generations. muballigh (reciting bench), an ablution area, and a kuttâb (Quranic school) attached. Although it is a small building, it houses decorative elements such as a minbar (pulpit), Quranic chair, mihrâb (niche), shoghshekha (wooden decorative dome) and windows decorated with foliage motifs and arabesque decoration. (Nevine El-Aref, “Mosques reopen”, Al-Ahram Weekly, May 9, 2019. Voir également ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie inaugure aujourd’hui la mosquée Fâtima al-Shaqrâ’ après 4 années de restauration de son minaret », Sada al-Balad, 2 mai ; Samar al-Naggâr, « Inauguration de la mosquée Fâtima al-Shaqrâ’ à l’issue de sa restauration », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 2 mai ; Muhammad ‘Abd al-Mu‘tî, « Inauguration de la mosquée Fâtima al-Shaqrâ’ à l’issue de sa restauration », al-Ahrâm, 3 mai ; Ahmad Mansûr, « Les mosquées al-Mujahideen et alKâshif souffraient d’une fragilité architecturale », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 3 mai ; Ihâb ‘Umar, « Inauguration des mosquées alMujahideen et al-Kâshif à Asyût », Sada alBalad, 3 mai ; Doaa Elhami, « Splendeur retrouvée », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 22 mai). - - The al-Mujahideen Mosque was built in the Ottoman architectural style by emir Muhammad Bek. It is the oldest mosque in Asyût and was originally built on a hill. However, over time the level of the street has been raised, and now the mosque is only a few cm above street level. The al-Kâshif Mosque was built by emir Muhammad al-Kâshif who ruled Asyût in 1811. It observes the Ottoman architectural style of roofed mosques. It is a rectangular-shaped mosque with two large marble columns that divide it into three sections that run in parallel with the qibla iwân (prayer hall). The mosque has a dikkat alBIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 An archaeological mission from Egypt’s Ministry of Antiquities, which operates in Wâdî Abû Subayra, has excavated early royal inscriptions in the Eastern Desert northeast of Aswân. The inscriptions date back to the Neolithic period. 184 Mai 2019 Secretary-General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities Mustafa Wazîrî said that thousands of stone inscriptions from the Neolithic period were uncovered in a semienclosed circular valley, depicting scenes featuring animals that were living in the area at that time, such as giraffes, elephants and crocodiles. désert Oriental au Nord-Est d’Aswân », alShurûq, 8 mai ; Muhammad ‘Abd al-Mu‘tî, « Mise au jour d’inscriptions royales dans le désert Oriental au Nord-Est d’Aswân », alAhrâm, 9 mai). Other inscriptions showing a small city, with scenes of cattle grazing and trees being planted, bear Egyptian royal signs, such as the falcon god Horus. Head of the Islamic, Coptic, and Jewish Antiquities Sector Gamâl Mustafa stated on Thursday that the ministry has finished the first stage in the development works of the monastery of Saint Catherine in South Sinai in cooperation with the ministries of local development, culture, environment, housing and the Information and Decision Support Center (IDSC). ‘Abd al-Mun‘im Sa‘îd, director-general of Aswân and Nubian Antiquities, said that sacred motives were also found on some blocks such as the sacred sign of Horus as well as other foliage decorations. (Nevine El-Aref, “Neolithic royal inscriptions discovered in Aswân”, Ahram Online, May 9, 2019. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie annonce la découverte des premières inscriptions royales dans le désert Oriental à Aswân », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 8 mai ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Premières inscriptions royales découvertes dans le désert Oriental à Aswân », Sada al-Balad, 8 mai ; « Découverte des premières inscriptions royales dans le BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 - - Vendredi 10 mai 2019 Mustafa added that he inspected the project works in the monastery of Saint Catherine under the supervision of the Supreme Committee for coordinating, raising efficiency for and developing the monastery. Mustafa clarified that the works included the pavement of roads leading to Monastery of Saint Catherine and Mount Moses, developing a running parking for tourist buses and cars, raising efficiency of all services in the area of bazaars, baths and clinic, and setting 185 Mai 2019 up an electronic security system equipped with “x-ray” devices connected to a control panel linked to surveillance cameras. Thousands of tourists attended the church mass at Saint Catherine’s Monastery on Friday and Saturday in celebration of the anniversary of Saint Catherine’s birth on December 8. (“Egypt’s antiquities ministry completes development works on monastery of Saint Catherine”, Egypt Independent, May 10, 2019. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « La haute Commission inspecte les travaux de la première phase de réaménagement de Wâdî al-Dayr à Sainte-Catherine », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 8 mai ; Sanâ’ Fârûq, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie déploie des efforts intensifs pour réaménager la zone de Sainte-Catherine », Watanî, 8 mai ; « Achèvement de la première phase du projet de réaménagement de Wâdî al-Dayr à Sainte-Catherine », al-Shurûq, 9 mai ; Muhammad ‘Abd al-Mu‘tî, « Achèvement de la première phase du projet de réaménagement de Wâdî al-Dayr à Sainte-Catherine », alAhrâm, 10 mai ; « Achèvement de la première phase du projet de réaménagement de Wâdî al-Dayr à Sainte-Catherine », al-Shurûq, 23 mai). - - Lors d’une tournée d’inspection, la directrice de la zone archéologique de Darb Sa‘âda a constaté la disparition d’une petite BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 incrustation du minbar de la mosquée alMu’ayyid Shaykh, située à al-Ghûriyya dans le quartier d’al-Azhar. La Police du Tourisme et des Antiquités a immédiatement été alertée. Le président du département des antiquités islamiques, coptes et juives, Dr Gamâl Mustafa, s’est rendu sur les lieux, accompagné d’autres hauts responsables. L’incrustation volée mesurait 5x5 cm. Ce polygone à cinq côtés ou pentagone était en bois incrusté d’ivoire. La police a visionné les caméras de vidéosurveillance, afin de déterminer l’identité du coupable. (Ahmad Mansûr, « Vol d’une incrustation du minbar de la mosquée al-Mu’ayyid Shaykh », al-Yawm alSâbi‘, 10 mai 2019. Voir également ‘Alâ’ alMinyâwî, « Vol d’une petite incrustation du minbar de la mosquée al-Mu’ayyid Shaykh », Sada al-Balad, 10 mai). - - Dimanche 12 mai 2019 Part of the attendees The Egyptian Embassy in Berlin launched a cultural blog to preserve and digitalize the Egyptian heritage. The cultural blog comes as part of a cooperation program between the Egyptian National Library and Archives, Faculty of Archaeology in Fayyûm University, Department of Islamic Studies at the German University of Marburg and the German Association for Scientific Cooperation. The launch came in the presence of a number of accredited ambassadors and officials of the German Foreign Ministry in addition to a number of German citizens and members of the Egyptian community in Germany. Ambassador of Egypt to Berlin Badr ‘Abd al-‘Âtî stressed the importance of the 186 Mai 2019 efforts exerted to preserve the Egyptian heritage and digitalize it, pointing to the Egyptian leadership’s keen interest in culture and civilization, in addition to establishing a large city for culture and arts in the new administrative capital, beside the establishment of the Museum of Civilization and the launching of the Grand Egyptian Museum in 2020. The ambassador further stressed the importance the state attaches to improving the mechanisms of preserving monuments, documents and manuscripts and that this serves not only Egypt, but all humanity, as the Egyptian heritage is a world heritage. The ambassador also praised the cooperation between Egypt and Germany in various fields. ‘Abd al-‘Âtî noted that Egyptian Minister of Antiquities Khâlid al-‘Inânî will visit Germany in the upcoming days in the framework of further cooperation between Egypt and Germany in the areas of monument preservation and training provision. Head of the Egyptian National Library (ENLA) and Archives Hishâm ‘Azmî spoke about the important efforts exerted by the ENLA which was established in 1870 to benefit from international expertise in the preservation of thousands of manuscripts which represent a great human asset. Last but not least, the head of the Islamic Studies at Marburg University stated that the horizon is fully open for further cooperation between Egypt and Germany in the development and preservation of manuscripts and documents in light of the multiplicity of German centers and institutions in this field. (Mustafa Marie, “Egyptians, Germans cooperate to digitalize Egyptian heritage”, Egypt Today, May 12, 2019. Voir également Ahmad Ibrâhîm, « L’ambassade d’Égypte à Berlin célèbre la numérisation du patrimoine égyptien en association avec une institution allemande », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 11 mai). - - Mercredi 15 mai 2019 Plusieurs expositions se tiennent actuellement dans différents musées du Caire en lien avec la BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Journée mondiale du patrimoine, qui a eu lieu 16 avril. Focus sur trois d'entre elles : "Effendina", au palais Manyal, "Tûna al-Gabal", au Musée égyptien de Tahrîr, et "L’Asie accueillie par Kiridliya", au Musée GAYERANDERSON. 17 panneaux regroupant une sélection des archives photographiques du prince Muhammad ‘Alî Tawfîq composent l’exposition "Effendina", dans la grande salle du musée privé du palais Manyal. L’exposition se tient jusqu’au 16 juillet et est organisée en coopération avec la Société des amis du musée. « Cette exposition nous donne une idée du mode de vie de la génération qui a vécu pendant les années 1930 et 40 », a indiqué le prince ‘Abbâs Hilmî, le fils du neveu de Muhammad ‘Alî Tawfîq, lors de l’inauguration. Le choix du nom « Effendina » n’est pas un hasard. « Ce titre a été donné seulement au khédive Ismâ‘îl et à son fils Muhammad ‘Alî Tawfîq et à son petit-fils ‘Abbâs Hilmî II, qui lui ont succédé sur le trône. Mais le prince Muhammad ‘Alî Tawfîq était le prince héritier pendant le règne du khédive ‘Abbâs Hilmî II (1892-1899). Ensuite, il a été régent du trône à deux reprises, une fois à la mort du roi Fu’âd Ier en 1936, et une autre fois après le déclenchement de la Révolution de 1952. « Le propriétaire du palais Manyal a, de ce fait, été honoré en on lui a attribué ce titre lui aussi », explique Hadîr ‘Âdil, cheffe du département des expositions temporaires au 187 Mai 2019 musée du palais Manyal. Les photos ont été sélectionnées parmi le nombre considérable d’images composant les archives du prince. « Nous étions à la recherche de photos significatives et, en même temps, de bonne qualité. Les photos exposées ont été scannées, documentées, puis imprimées en une taille convenant à l’exposition », explique ‘Âdil. « Chaque panneau fait référence à une phase de la vie du prince, depuis son enfance, en passant par sa jeunesse et ses activités, et jusqu’à ses rôles officiels et amis préférés », explique Walâ’ Badawî, directeur du musée. Les photos montrent notamment le prince pendant ses années d’études en Autriche. Il était alors fasciné de voyage, de déplacement et d’art. « D’après les mémoires du prince, qu’il a rédigées à l’âge de 75 ans et qui ont été publiées en 1950, Muhammad ‘Alî Tawfîq est né en 1875 au palais Qubba, à l’est du Caire », lit-on sur les panneaux. Le prince aimait les jardins de ce palais, où il a passé son enfance. C’est cette fascination qui l’a l’incité à construire le palais Manyal. « Le prince a décidé de construire son palais sur l’île de Rawda, connue pour ses plantes et arbres rares et son histoire, surtout durant l’époque mamelouke », explique ‘Âdil, tout en ajoutant que le prince voulait que son palais devienne une œuvre de renaissance de l’architecture islamique, inspirée de diverses régions du monde — Asie Mineure, Afrique du Nord et Andalousie. L’exposition présente d’ailleurs des photos du palais en cours de construction au début du XXe siècle, tout comme des divers sérails du palais, qui se compose de 5 bâtiments ainsi que de quelques salles représentatives de l’art islamique. BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Le prince a aussi voulu y aménager des jardins comme ceux du palais Qubba. Les photos montrent donc les vastes surfaces de verdure et les arbres historiques comme les cèdres. Les jardins du palais témoignent aussi de la vie sociale du prince, qui avait de bonnes relations avec la haute société. C’est ainsi que les visiteurs de l’exposition verront sur les photos exposées notamment Sir et Lady Miles LAMPSON. Parmi les photos les plus particulières figurent celles montrant des chevaux. « Ces photos ont été scannées à partir de deux volumes rédigés par le prince et dont le thème était l’élevage des chevaux arabes. C’était l’une des traditions de la famille alide, dont le fondateur, Muhammad ‘Alî pacha, avait fait installer, au début du XIXe siècle, une vaste écurie », souligne ‘Âdil. Étant conservateur des traditions de sa famille, le prince a aussi gardé un nombre considérable de peintures représentatives des diverses tenues de sa famille. L’exposition consacre ainsi plusieurs panneaux à des reproductions de peinture et à des photos de membres de la famille alide, dont celles de ‘Abbâs Hilmî Ier, de Sa‘îd pacha, des khédives Ismâ‘îl, Tawfîq (avec sa famille) et de ‘Abbâs Hilmî II sont les plus remarquables. Certaines photos de Muhammad ‘Alî Tawfîq le représentent dans des situations officielles alors qu’il était régent. L’une témoigne de sa présence à l’ouverture de la session parlementaire de 1936, tandis qu’une autre le représente en compagnie de Sa‘îd Zoulfiqar pacha, chef du dîwân royal, lors de l’inauguration de la gare de Ménouf, capitale du gouvernorat d’al-Munûfiyya, dans le Delta. Les panneaux exposés reflètent ainsi la vie riche du prince qui aimait l’Égypte et qui lui a laissé un patrimoine de valeur, témoignant d’une époque raffinée. (Doaa Elhami, « Une vie de prince », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 15 mai 2019. Voir également Nirvân Nabîl, « "Effendina" : une exposition photographique sur la vie de l’émir Muhammad ‘Alî au palais Manyal », alBawwâba News, 11 avril ; Sanâ’ Fârûq, « "Effendina" : une exposition photographique organisée au palais Manyal », 188 Mai 2019 Watanî, 12 avril ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « L’exposition "Effendina" au palais Manyal dévoile la vie d’un grand collectionneur », Sada al-Balad, 16 avril). - - l’égyptologue Ahmad adjoint de la mission. Badrân, directeur Les pièces exposées varient entre momies d’animaux et de volailles, sarcophages, masques, papyri, maquettes et bien d’autres. La divinité Thot occupe une place centrale dans l’exposition. Elle y est représentée avec ses deux aspects : l’ibis et le babouin. Le visiteur peut découvrir des statuettes de ceuxci, trouvées en nombre dans le cimetière des animaux divinisés. « Ces statuettes auraient été présentées comme offrandes », souligne l’égyptologue. Y sont remarqués aussi des momies et des sarcophages d’animaux ainsi qu’un squelette d’ibis. Plume d’or Une centaine de pièces découvertes dans les cimetières des animaux divinisés et des humains dans la région de Tûna al-Gabal, à 250 km au sud du Caire, sont à observer actuellement au Musée du Caire. L’exposition "Tûna al-Gabal — entre les légendes de la création et la divinisation de l’animal, 100 ans de découvertes par la mission égyptoallemande", inaugurée mi-avril, se tient jusqu’à la fin du mois de mai dans la salle 44 du musée, place Tahrîr. Ces pièces présentées dans l’exposition sont le résultat de fouilles menées par deux missions archéologiques. L’une, ancienne, dirigée par l’archéologue renommé Sâmî Gabra, a fouillé la région entre 1933 et 1954, et l’autre est le résultat des fouilles de la mission égypto-allemande présidée par l’archéologue Salâh al-Khûlî, qui y opère depuis des années et encore aujourd’hui. « Tûna al-Gabal est un endroit d’une grande importance archéologique. C’est le cimetière principal de la fameuse cité d’alAshmûnayn, connue aussi sous le nom d’Hermopolis Magna », souligne BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Le plus surprenant, c’est la présence d’une clepsydre, surmontée d’une statue de babouin. « Ce type d’horloge, dégagée du cimetière, avait comme but d’éveiller le défunt pour être interrogé par la divinité », explique Badrân. Y sont exposés aussi des outils de chirurgie. Bien que Thot soit divinisé depuis l’Ancien Empire, son culte était toujours en plein épanouissement durant l’époque grécoromaine, notamment à Tûna al-Gabal où a été découvert son cimetière, ainsi que son temple. Mais le chef-d’œuvre de l’exposition reste le sarcophage de Pétosiris, le grand prêtre du temple de Thot, et d’autres divinités locales d’al-Ashmûnayn en Moyenne-Égypte. Le sarcophage est en bois et en verre coloré, son couvercle est orné de 5 colonnes de signes hiéroglyphes. Le texte comprend le nom du défunt, ses titres, ainsi qu’une formule du chapitre 42 du Livre des Morts, qui aide le défunt à surmonter les dangers de l’au-delà. 189 Mai 2019 Parmi les trouvailles de l’égyptologue Sâmî Gabra, qui a découvert les vestiges du temple de Thot en 1936, on peut admirer une statue en granite, datée du Ier siècle de notre ère. De même y est rencontrée une tête représentative de la divinité Osiris en bois doré. Cette tête fait partie d’une grande statue, sortie du cimetière des animaux divins. Quant à la partie consacrée au cimetière humain, l’exposition comprend une plume en or, des amulettes en faïence, des bijoux comme le collier de verre coloré et les bagues en or, ainsi que des masques en gypse qui étaient déposés sur la partie supérieure de la momie. « Cette tradition funéraire était commune durant l’époque romaine. Elle symbolisait la résurrection du défunt », souligne Badrân. Si les cimetières et les nécropoles occupent une partie considérable de l’exposition, des œuvres de la vie quotidienne sont aussi présentées. Le visiteur y trouve des maquettes de maisons-tours, composées de trois étages, un nouveau style architectural, apparu pendant l’époque romaine. Pour les archéologues, il est rare de pouvoir dégager sur un chantier ces maisons, d’où vient l’importance de ces pièces exposées, qui proviennent de la colline du temple de Thot en 2016. Parmi les pièces de la vie quotidienne, il y a aussi des papyri en écriture démotique. « Ce sont des contrats de mariage, de vente ou encore de livraison. Le plus important c’est que, dans ces contrats, on trouve l’année du règne et des signatures des témoins », souligne Badrân. Les pièces exposées sont accompagnées de panneaux montrant des photos de la mission sur le chantier et retraçant l’histoire de ces recherches effectuées à Tûna al-Gabal. Les archéologues espèrent, avec cette exposition, avoir mis en lumière un site peu connu du grand public, tout en espérant de nouvelles découvertes à venir. (Doaa Elhami, « Les animaux divinisés de Tûna al-Gabal », AlAhram Hebdo du 15 mai 2019. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « Inauguration au Musée Égyptien d’une exposition sur Tûnâ alBIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Gabal », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 16 avril ; Yâsir alGhabîrî, « Inauguration au Musée Égyptien de Tahrîr de l’exposition Tûnâ al-Gabal », alBawwâba News, 16 avril ; Fâdya Ihâb, « Le site de Tûna al-Gabal exposé au Musée Égyptien », al-Watan, 16 avril ; Imân Magdî, « Inauguration aujourd’hui au Musée Égyptien de Tahrîr de l’exposition Tûnâ al-Gabal », alWafd, 16 avril). - - "L’Asie accueillie par al-Kritliyya" est le titre de l’exposition tenue au Musée GayerAnderson, rue Ahmad Ibn Tûlûn dans le quartier de Sayyida Zaynab au Caire. Ouverte jusqu’au 22 juin, cette exposition célèbre les 77 ans du musée inauguré en 1942. L’exposition invite le visiteur à se plonger dans les différentes civilisations asiatiques : « à savoir la civilisation syrienne, hindoue, chinoise, iranienne et turque. Et ce, via des pièces sorties des dépôts du musée et exposées pour la première fois au grand public », explique Mirvat ‘Izzat, directrice générale du musée. Pour elle, ces civilisations ont livré des œuvres qui témoignent de leur prospérité, leur culture, leur coutume ainsi que leur art, bien distinct les uns des autres. Les pièces exposées varient entre tableaux, coffrets et accessoires cosmétiques, boîtes, vases, chandeliers, statuettes et dalles de porcelaine. La civilisation iranienne ou perse est largement présentée. Le visiteur peut admirer des dalles en porcelaine ornées de motifs botaniques et d’animaux, et d’autres de scènes humaines qui datent de l’époque safavide (1779-1925). « L’art à cette époque était d’influence européenne. Il reflète la vie prospère du palais royal et des hauts 190 Mai 2019 fonctionnaires du royaume safavide », explique l’archéologue Hishâm Nagîb, ajoutant que ces scènes peintes sur les dalles reflètent la finesse de l’art à cette époque. Scène de la vie quotidienne de l’époque safavide. Outre les dalles de porcelaine et ses scènes, deux coffrets de cette époque iranienne, ainsi que des accessoires cosmétiques, comme un peigne en bois et un miroir ovale, sont exposés. « Le dos du miroir est orné de l’illustration d’un prince safavide en tenue officielle et coiffé d’une plume », explique la directrice, pour qui l’exposition permet de se faire une idée, à travers des peintures, du mode vestimentaire de chaque civilisation. Pendant que les princesses iraniennes portaient de longues robes aux vestes multicolores, coiffées de couronnes plumées et incrustées de pierres précieuses, les jeunes filles chinoises, quant à elles, se distinguaient par leurs fameuses robes traditionnelles, leurs cheveux en chignon tenant dans leurs mains un bouquet de fleurs. Quant aux Turcs, ils sont représentés par la fameuse tenue de tannûra (large jupe doublecloche) et coiffés du long tarbouche pour les jeunes hommes et longs foulards blancs des jeunes filles. Les Indiennes, elles, se distinguaient avec leurs longues tresses de cheveux noirs, ornées de colliers et leurs saris de couleurs vives. L’exposition ne fait pas l’impasse sur l’aspect religieux de ces civilisations. Deux statuettes en bronze représentatives des BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 divinités hindoues Bouddha et Krishna sont exposées. Quant à la civilisation syrienne, elle est présentée dans l’exposition par une seule pièce. Il s’agit d’un ballon astronomique sur lequel sont dessinés les astres. Pour la directrice, bien que ce ballon soit la seule pièce représentant la Syrie, il reflète l’évolution scientifique de cette civilisation. Cette exposition invite le visiteur à une plongée dans un monde légendaire, digne de celui des Mille et Une Nuits. (Doaa Elhami, « Richesses d’Asie à al-Kritliyya », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 15 mai 2019. Voir également Husâm Zaydân, « L’exposition "L’Asie accueillie par al-Kritliyya" au Musée GayerAnderson », al-Fagr, 16 avril ; ‘Umar al-Mahdî, « Le Musée Gayer-Anderson fête la Journée mondiale du patrimoine », al-Ahrâm, 17 avril ; Ahmad ‘Uthmân, « Le Musée Gayer-Anderson célèbre la Journée mondiale du patrimoine », al-Wafd, 17 avril ; Mahmûd ‘Abd al-Bâqî, « Le Musée Gayer-Anderson fête la Journée mondiale du patrimoine », Vetogate, 17 avril). - - The International Museum Day is celebrated annually on May 18. On this occasion, the Egyptian Museum in Tahrîr will present a collection of artifacts that shed light on ancient customs and traditions, linking them to modern day traditions. The Egyptian Museum in Tahrîr will hold this celebration under the title "The role of Museums in Maintaining Customs and Traditions" as set by the International Organization of Museums. Director of ‘Abd al-Râziq pieces include were used in the Egyptian Museum Sabâh explained that the selected a collection of cosmetics that ancient Egypt that comprise 191 Mai 2019 utensils to preserve essential oils, cosmetics’ spoons made of wood and stones as well as mirrors, wooden combs and cosmetic blades made of bronze. ‘Abd al-Râziq further stated that the museum will organize on May 18 free guided educational tours in the Egyptian Museum and the Children’s Museum to highlight the customs and traditions of ancient Egypt. (Mustafa Marie, “Egyptian Museum in Tahrîr celebrates International Museum Day”, Egypt Today, May 15, 2019). - - Deux tombes ont été restaurées dans le cadre du développement et de l’aménagement des catacombes de Kom alShuqâfa. Les deux tombes restaurées et désormais prêtes à la visite sont connues sous le nom de G990 et G989. « En réalité, ces deux tombes étaient exposées dans le jardin du Musée gréco-romain, puis elles ont été démantelées et déplacées dans cette région dès 2009. « On a saisi l’occasion du projet du développement des catacombes pour reconstruire ces tombes », a expliqué Gharîb Sunbul, directeur du département central de maintenance au ministère des Antiquités. Et d’ajouter que le démantèlement ainsi que la documentation des éléments architecturaux de ces tombes ont été effectués selon les BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 normes scientifiques modernes appliquées dans le monde entier. En effet, les travaux de reconstruction de la tombe G989 ont commencé en novembre 2017. Ce n’est qu’en 2018 que les travaux de restauration minutieuse ont commencé. En outre, une entrée spéciale a été pavée pour faciliter l’accès des visiteurs. Faisant partie de la nécropole ouest d’Alexandrie, ces deux tombes ont été découvertes par Annibale Evaristo BRECCIA dans la région d’al-Wardiyân au début du XXe siècle. Elles ont été sculptées dans le rocher en forme de chambres, et se caractérisent par l’architecture et les ornements colorés. Pour sa part, Nâdya Khidr, directrice du département central des antiquités du Delta, a expliqué qu’en 1952, les deux tombes ont été déplacées pour être exposées dans le jardin du Musée gréco-romain. La tombe G990 remonte à la période ptolémaïque, elle renferme une chambre funéraire avec un plafond orné de sculptures géométriques colorées. Cette chambre comprend un seul sarcophage ainsi qu’un autel au milieu de la tombe. Sur ses parois aussi se trouvent des gravures géométriques. Quant à la deuxième tombe, elle remonte à la période romaine et se caractérise par une chambre funéraire et une entrée spéciale en forme de semi-dôme et renfermant trois sarcophages. (« Deux tombes gréco-romaines restaurées », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 15 mai 2019). - - Vieilles de 2 000 ans, les catacombes de Kom al-Shuqâfa, dans le quartier de Karmûz, à l’Est d’Alexandrie, ont fait l’objet d’un projet de préservation. Ces catacombes sont 192 Mai 2019 constituées de trois tombes souterraines creusées dans la roche calcaire et renferment les sépultures de riches familles de l’époque gréco-romaine. Elles étaient menacées par la montée de la nappe phréatique depuis plus de cent ans. Les travaux du projet de conservation et de développement de la région, réalisés en coopération avec l’United States Agency for International Development (USAID), avaient débuté en novembre 2017. Il s’agissait d’équiper le site de puits et de pompes de drainage. « C’est un programme unique qui a combiné archéologie et ingénierie civile », se félicite Thomas NICHOLS, un ingénieur consultant ayant participé au projet. Les puits creusés à Kom al-Shuqâfa pour remédier au problème des eaux souterraines. Le problème de la montée de la nappe phréatique à Kom al-Shuqâfa avait commencé dès sa découverte en 1900. Plusieurs tentatives avaient été menées pour faire baisser le niveau des eaux souterraines et assécher la région, dont la plus importante remonte aux années 1990. Mais l’expansion urbaine dans la zone résidentielle adjacente et l’infiltration du canal al-Mahmûdiyya avaient conduit à une nouvelle hausse de la nappe phréatique. Il y a quelques années, le ministère des Antiquités avait fait creuser des puits pour retirer l’eau qui menaçait les fondations du site historique, mais sans réussir à préserver les catacombes de façon définitive. Aujourd’hui, la préservation est chose faite. « Ce projet, subventionné par les États-Unis avec 5,7 millions de dollars, permet de mettre fin à ce drame et de réduire le volume des eaux souterraines de manière permanente », a assuré Khâlid al-‘Inânî, ministre des Antiquités, BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 lors des célébrations de fin de projet la semaine dernière. L’ingénieur Wa‘d Abû al-‘Ilâ, responsable du secteur des projets au ministère des Antiquités, a indiqué dans un communiqué de presse qu’après de longs mois d’études approfondies du site et du problème des eaux souterraines, la décision avait été prise de creuser 6 puits à une profondeur de 40 mètres ainsi que d’installer des pompes dotées d’un système de contrôle électronique dans un nouveau bâtiment de contrôle, construit sur le site. « En outre, des tuyaux ont été implantés sur le site, afin d’expulser et de disperser l’eau loin des catacombes, surtout au moment des pluies torrentielles qui tombent à Alexandrie en hiver », a-t-il par ailleurs expliqué. En plus de la préservation des catacombes de Kom al-Shuqâfa, le développement du site et son aménagement pour les visites touristiques a aussi été pris en considération lors de l’exécution de ce grand projet. Selon Mustafa Wazîrî, secrétaire général du Conseil Suprême des Antiquités (CSA), un itinéraire de visite a été aménagé ainsi que la route environnante de l’extérieur. De grosses pierres ont été ajoutées pour sécuriser le parcours. Des objets antiques ont également été réaménagés dans le musée à ciel ouvert, soit de nombreux cercueils, autels et statues. Ce projet est « un exemple réussi de coopération entre les États-Unis et le gouvernement égyptien dans la préservation de son héritage culturel », a déclaré Tom GOLDBERGER, chargé d’affaires des États-Unis en Égypte, lors des célébrations de fin de projet. Il a indiqué que Washington avait consacré « plus de cent millions de dollars à ce domaine au cours des dernières décennies ». Les catacombes de Kom al-Shuqâfa ne sont pas le seul site antique égyptien menacé par la montée des eaux souterraines, qui fragilisent leurs fondations. « Un autre projet, toujours avec l’aide d’USAID, est en œuvre dans le temple de Kom Ombo, à Aswân, afin de réduire les eaux souterraines qui menacent le temple », a indiqué al-‘Inânî. Et d’ajouter que cette montée des eaux souterraines est 193 Mai 2019 liée à divers facteurs, notamment l’irrigation intense et l’urbanisation. (Dalia Farouq, « Les catacombes de Kom al-Shuqâfa sauvées », AlAhram Hebdo du 15 mai 2019). - - Lors d’une interview accordée à Sada alBalad, Dr Zâhî Hawwâs s’est exprimé sur la pléthore de facultés d’archéologie créées au cours des dernières années. « C’est une très mauvaise chose, estime-t-il. Nous n’avons besoin que de dix diplômés en archéologie chaque année. Au lieu de cela, 10 000 diplômés sont jetés annuellement sur le marché du travail. Ce qui les contraint à exercer d’autres métiers. C’est un vrai problème ». « Par ailleurs, les effectifs surnuméraires nuisent à la qualité de l’enseignement dispensé. Il est impossible d’enseigner à un millier d’étudiants entassés dans un amphithéâtre. Seuls 10 archéologues diplômés chaque année feraient l’affaire : 2 égyptologues, 2 spécialistes de l’époque gréco-romaine, 2 de l’époque islamique et 3 restaurateurs. De toute façon, il n’y a plus de poste. Le système, tel qu’il est, génère des chômeurs. Franchement, il vaut mieux fermer ces facultés d’Archéologie et orienter l’enseignement vers d’autres disciplines plus utiles pour le pays ». (‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Hawwâs : Nos facultés d’Archéologies sont pléthoriques et inutiles », Sada al-Balad, 15 mai 2019). - Forensic technology has been playing a major role in Egyptology in recent years, and after centuries of mystery surrounding several chapters of ancient Egyptian history modern science has cleared up many of the enigmas and provided a better understanding of important episodes in this great civilisation. Modern scientific methods have succeeded in identifying several royal mummies, detailing their lineages and recognising the diseases from which they suffered in life as well as solving the paradoxes behind some mysterious deaths. Among these achievements has been solving the enigma of the early death of the boy-king Tutankhamun, including the symptoms that led to his death in early manhood as well as the identity of the mummies of his two unborn children. Science has identified the mummy of the monotheistic Pharaoh Akhenaten and proved that he was Tutankhamun’s father by a secondary wife. The mummy of queen Hatshepsut has also been identified through a tooth found in a box inside the Egyptian Museum in Cairo. It revealed that she was obese, diabetic and died of cancer. - Jeudi 16 mai 2019 It has also solved the long-debated mystery over the death of the Pharaoh Ramses III, as recorded on the “harem conspiracy” papyrus now exhibited in the Turin Museum in Italy. CT scans on the mummy have revealed a deep wound in the throat of Ramses III’s mummy, which would have caused his immediate death. Photos courtesy of Zâhî Hawwâs CT scans on the Hatshepsut and Ramses III mummies BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 The Pharaoh’s death was overshadowed by a plot described in the “Judicial Papyrus” in Turin. Despite the information in the papyrus it 194 Mai 2019 could not be determined whether Ramses III escaped or was killed during the plot, however. during the Late Intermediate Period to hide and preserve the bodies of 18th, 19th and 20thDynasty rulers. According to the papyrus, also known as the “Trial Transcripts Papyrus”, a plot to kill Ramses III was woven in 1155 BCE by officials in the palace and army standard bearers, as well as his secondary wife Tiya and her son Pentawere. The plan was to end the life of the king and place Pentawere on the throne in his stead. “The priests might have stripped the mummies and the royal tombs of their most valuable treasures, yet they still wanted to protect the royal remains from the tomb robbers who roamed the sacred hills of Thebes,” he said. The papyrus says that the coup failed and the defendants were rounded up and sent for trial, but it was unclear whether the assassination was successful. It goes on to recount four separate trials and lists the punishments meted out to the criminals. Some were sentenced to death while others were sentenced to commit suicide. Among the latter was Pentawere. The papyrus also relates that the court received instructions from the pharaoh, but this does not in itself pinpoint the exact time of the king’s death and whether it took place during the court trials or later. “The marriage between modern technology, science and archaeology which started in 2005 by the CT scan and DNA test on Tutankhamun’s mummy has resulted in important findings which have helped resolve the enigmas surrounding some of the ancient Egyptian royals that grew out of the relocating of their mummies from their original burial places to caches,” Zâhî Hawwâs, a former minister of antiquities, told Al-Ahram Weekly. He added that the royal mummies were moved quickly at night by the high priests of Amun who controlled the Theban Necropolis BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 In their hurry, Hawwâs believes, some mummies were misplaced or unidentified. Initially, the royal mummies were rehoused in nearby tombs, and records show that the mummy of Ramses II was originally moved to the tomb of his father Seti I and then later transferred to the al-Dayr al-Baharî cache. “It is difficult to plot the routes followed by the mummies,” Hawwâs said. In the process of moving the corpses and the confusion that ensued, some were stripped of all identification. Hawwâs said that the second phase of the Egyptian Mummies Project had now resumed in order to study the rest of the royal mummies, among them those on display at the Egyptian Museum in Cairo that will be transported to the National Museum of Egyptian Civilisation in Fustât. “We resumed the work with a study to identify two headless mummies found inside Tomb KV21 in the Valley of the Kings in Luxor. Samples of Tutankhamun’s foetuses were also taken for analysis,” Hawwâs said. He said that preliminary studies had shown that there was a relationship between one of the headless mummies and the foetuses, indicating that it could belong to Tutankhamun’s wife queen Ankhesenamun. 195 Mai 2019 “Until now we are not sure of the results,” Hawwâs said, adding that “we have to wait until more studies have been carried out in order to be 100 per cent sure. I think the studies will reveal that one of these mummies belongs to Ankhesenamun and the second to her mother, queen Nefertiti. The ancient Egyptians usually buried the daughter beside the mother, like the mummy of queen Tiye and her daughter, the mummy of the younger lady,” Hawwâs told the Weekly. He said he had tried to find the mummy of queen Nefertiti’s sister, Mut Nedjment, in order to compare it with the headless mummy, but regretfully he could not find the remains previously located by Egyptologist Jeffrey MARTIN inside the tomb of her husband Horemhab in Saqqâra. Hawwâs said that further studies of Tutankhamun’s mummy would reveal the cause of his death. Analysis by a machine to be brought to Egypt in September would allow scientists to reveal the exact cause of the death of Tutankhamun, he said. (Nevine ElAref, “Investigating the mummies”, Al-Ahram Weekly, May 16, 2019. Voir également ‘Alâ’ alMinyâwî, « Hawwâs : Nous cherchons à élucider la mort de Toutankhamon », Sada alBalad, 4 mai). - - d’une enquête. On les croyait définitivement perdues. Il s’agit « d’un flocon en verre, d’une écritoire en cuivre, de quatre pendentifs et de trois médailles ». Cette trouvaille a été consignée dans les registres de l’entrepôt, sous la responsabilité de Mahmûd Khalîl et du Dr Muhammad Hamâda, membres de la commission d’inventaire. (Ahmad Mansûr, « Découverte d’un carton contenant des pièces archéologiques », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 16 mai 2019). - - Egypt is making new efforts to promote tourism on the international stage by partnering with the US channel CNN to launch a global tourism campaign and making a series of documentaries on Egypt’s archaeological wonders with an Italian media group, according to announcements by the Ministry of Tourism. The CNN campaign will kick off on 22 May with innovative material on contemporary Egypt to attract a global audience on television networks and digital platforms. To increase engagement with audiences, advertising will be placed adjacent to relevant content such as CNN Travel on digital platforms, using first-party data to reach specific segments and engage with audiences showing interest in editorial content about Egypt, said Rânyâ al-Mashât, the minister of Tourism. The campaign targets tourists from the European, North American, Asian, African and Middle Eastern markets. The CNN campaign would tap into the high interest in travel amongst CNN audiences, 66 per cent of whom are personally interested in travel, with 50 per cent travelling internationally each year, al-Mashât said. Des sources informées ont révélé la découverte de pièces archéologiques entreposées dans un carton, à l’abri des regards, dans l’entrepôt archéologique de Fustât. Ces pièces avaient déjà fait l’objet BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Earlier this week, she also announced that Italy’s biggest commercial broadcaster MediaSet would be launching a new season of documentaries on the secrets of ancient Egypt after the success of a previous season. The Italian series Freedom Oltre Il Confine (Freedom Beyond Borders) and its presenter 196 Mai 2019 Roberto GIACOBBO would broadcast documentaries on the wonders of ancient Egyptian civilisation, al-Mashât said. from audiences, adding that German, Spanish and Italian viewers preferred to watch their local television channels. The series, entitled “Exclusive Permits”, will be aired on Italian television. The 13 episodes — the first season contained 12 — were shot at archaeological sites unfamiliar to tourists, such as the Osirion, an ancient Egyptian temple located behind the Seti I Temple in Abydos, and the Djoser Step Pyramid where a statuette of Osiris was recently discovered. He said that CNN viewers in Europe were limited to English-speaking tourists and holidaymakers who wished to follow world news. Parts of the series were shot inside tombs unearthed in Luxor’s Dirâ‘ Abû al-Nagâ Necropolis, as well as in the tomb of Tutankhamun’s wet nurse in Saqqâra and that of the scribe who drafted the Egypt-Hittite peace treaty between Ramses II and Hittite ruler Hattusilis III. The programme contains ancient Egyptian scenes that will be aired exclusively on Italian television. The first season of the series was broadcast between 28 December 2018 and 14 February, with each episode drawing between 1.5 and five million viewers, Rai, the national public broadcasting company of Italy, said. “Promoting Egypt on CNN and Italian television is an excellent step forward,” said Husâm al-Shâ‘ir, chairman of the Egyptian Chamber of Tourism Companies. “We are now awaiting the launch of a wide-ranging campaign in countries sending tourists to Egypt, such as Germany and the UK.” In her announcement of the partnership with CNN, al-Mashât said that “innovation lies at the heart of the partnership through the use of CNN’s sophisticated data capabilities and insight to reach these audiences. CNN will leverage its unique scale via TV networks as well as precision-targeting across digital and social media to optimise a campaign showing the beauty of Egypt and its culture and people.” However, one tourism marketing expert, who preferred to withhold his name, viewed the CNN campaign differently. He said the global network would not receive attention BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 The campaign seeks to create a positive image of Egypt through story-telling that focuses on tourist destinations, said Cathy IBAL, vice president of CNN International Commercial, adding that the campaign was expected to be viewed by more than 10 million tourists. For Muhammad Hasanayn, a member of the Egyptian Chamber of Tourism Companies whose company works on tourism from Spain, promoting Egypt abroad will make it easier for private tourism businesses to attract holidaymakers. In 2018, approximately 11.3 million tourists visited Egypt, spending almost 122 million nights in the country. The European market was the largest exporter of tourists last year, with seven million vacationers. The Arab market came second with three million tourists. Asia was third with around 700,000 tourists, and the Americas fourth with approximately 500,000. The promotion campaign has three aspects: branding by destination, based on promoting each tourist destination separately, including Aswân, Luxor, Sharm al-Shaykh and Marsâ ‘Alam; a people-to-people scheme; and marketing the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), which is slated to open in 2020. The museum inauguration comes amid other events Egypt is preparing for, such as the Africa Cup of Nations taking place next month. The partnership with CNN could not have happened at a better time, with the world’s eyes turning to Egypt for the events. Hasanayn said that promoting Egypt’s cultural tourism, which focuses on museums and archaeological sites, will impact positively on the overall flow of travellers to Egypt. 197 Mai 2019 al-Mashât said the first documentary series aired in Italy augured well for the success of the second. She said season two had been shot in Aswân, Abû Simbil, Suhâg, Luxor and Gîza in April. Modern promotion mechanisms depending on storytelling, location and people had responded to tourists’ desires for new experiences. “The new promotion strategy will have a positive impression on the targeted audience,” said Magdî Sâdiq, a member of the Egyptian Chamber of Tourism Companies whose company attracts tourists from Italy. Italian tourists are primarily interested in Egypt’s beaches and cultural destinations, said Sâdiq, who confirmed that the number of Italian tourists visiting Egypt in 2018 had increased by 16 per cent on the year before. The first three months of 2019 had seen a 40 per cent rise in Italian tourists on the same period in 2018, with the influx concentrated in Marsâ ‘Alam and Sharm al-Shaykh. Presenter GIACOBBO said the first season of the series on the secrets of ancient Egypt had been a big hit, particularly the parts shot in the Grand Egyptian Museum, which had garnered two million viewers. Season one documented recent archaeological discoveries in Egypt, such as Miho’s tomb in the Saqqâra Necropolis and the restoration of Khufu’s second solar boar. A special episode on the journey of the Holy Family in Egypt was aired at Christmas. Other episodes included one on the secrets of the Pyramids of Gîza, in which famed Egyptologist and former minister of antiquities Zâhî Hawwâs was hosted. Another was on the Battle of Kadesh, which took place before the signing of the first peace treaty in human history between Ramses II and the Hittite emperor. The final episode of the first season was aired on Valentine’s Day. It recounted the story of queen Nefertari, who was Ramses II’s favourite wife and to whom he dedicated a temple in Abû Simbil and a private cemetery. BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 The success of the series had led the Italian Focus channel to broadcast it again. After developing tourist areas such as in Aswân and linking Hurghada and Luxor, Hasanayn said Egypt should hold sound and light shows on the west bank of the Nile at Luxor. He said it was pivotal to embark on promotion campaigns in traditional markets such as Germany and the UK and new markets such as China and India, while addressing each market according to its targeted travellers, whether they were interested in beaches, cultural or religious tourism. (Safeya Mounir, “Travelling out of the box”, Al-Ahram Weekly, May 16, 2019). - - Samedi 18 mai 2019 La Central Agency for Public Mobilization and Statistics (CAPMAS) a révélé qu’en 2018 on compte 34 musées archéologiques, historiques et régionaux en Égypte, contre 35 musées en 2017 ; soit une baisse de 2,9 %. Ces musées ont attiré 2,845 millions de visiteurs en 2018, contre 2,361 millions en 2017 ; soit une augmentation de 20,5 %. Les revenus drainés par ces musées ont atteint 169,021 millions Livres égyptiennes en 2018, contre 99,133 millions L.E. en 2017 ; soit une augmentation de 70,5 %. (Amîra Sâlih, « CAPMAS : 70,5 millions L.E. d’augmentation des revenus des musées en 2018 », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 18 mai 2019). - - L’Administration centrale pour la restauration et la préservation archéologiques a lancé la deuxième phase de restauration des momies de Sîwa. Ces momies ont été découvertes, il y a deux ans, à environ 300 m de l’oasis. Il s’agit de trois momies recouvertes de cartonnage funéraire, d’une momie enveloppée dans du lin, d’une momie d’enfant, ainsi que de près de douze squelettes. Cette découverte remonte à l’époque romaine. (Ahmad Mansûr, 198 Mai 2019 « Restauration de momies découvertes à Sîwa », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 18 mai 2019). - - Dimanche 19 mai 2019 At least 17 people have been injured after an explosion targeted a tour bus and a private vehicle travelling near the Grand Egyptian Museum in Gîza. According to local and international reports, including social media posts, an explosion near the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) — which has not yet opened to the public — left a tour bus with shattered windows. Initial reports from state media indicate 10 Egyptians and seven South Africans were among those injured. According to media reports, two vehicles — a tour bus and a private vehicle — were impacted by the explosion. The tour bus was carrying 25 people while the private vehicle was carrying four people. The extent of the damage remains unclear. However, photographs from the scene show shattered windows on the bus while individuals roam around the overly intact bus. Security forces and ambulances rushed to the scene of the explosion within minutes of the incident. This is Egypt’s second attack at the same location within six months. In December, a roadside bomb hit a tourist bus near the Gîza Pyramids, killing four and injuring 11 others. The tourist victims were of Vietnamese origin while some Egyptians were also injured namely the bus driver and the guide. Egypt’s Ministry of Tourism and the government at large have been aggressively promoting Egypt as a safe destination for tourists, a considerably effort considering tourism is one of the nation’s strongest sectors in the economy. The number of tourists soared in 2018 and is expected to reach new highs in 2019; as such, authorities has implemented tight security measures to prevent any disturbance or attacks. In June 2018, the annual Gallup Global Law and Order ranked Egypt the 16th safest country in the world, outranking both the United States, the United Kingdom and the entire African continent. Egypt was also deemed safer than popular European tourist destinations such as France, Italy, Turkey and Germany. (“Explosion Reported Near Grand Egyptian Museum”, Egyptian Streets, May 19, 2019). - - Mercredi 22 mai 2019 The road near the GEM is often popular with tour buses travelling to and from the Great Pyramid of Gîza complex and other nearby antiquity and historic sites. The GEM is set to open in 2020 and will be the largest archaeological museum in the world, housing many of Egypt’s treasures. It has not been harmed following the explosion of the device. The site of the GEM. (AP Photo/Amr Nabil) Authorities have rushed to claim that the situation is under control although no group claimed responsibility for the attack and the culprits have yet to be apprehended. BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 ã Ministère de l’Archéologie Non loin du Canal de Suez, à 16 km à l’Est plus précisément, se trouve le site archéologique de Tell al-Kidwa, témoin de l’architecture militaire de la XXVIe dynastie, connue sous « l’époque saïte ». Une mission égyptienne y a dévoilé, la semaine dernière, les vestiges d’une 199 Mai 2019 forteresse construite en briques crues. « Les restes des tours des coins nord-est et sud-est ainsi que l’extension de la muraille sud d’une forteresse ont été découverts », a annoncé Mustafa Wazîrî, secrétaire général du Conseil Suprême des Antiquités (CSA). L’extension mise au jour atteint 85 mètres de long, une taille qui pourrait encore évoluer selon les prochaines trouvailles. directeur, les couches de cendres qui couvrent le site ont inspiré les bédouins de la région pour nommer ce site « Tell al-Kidwa » qui signifie « une chose enflammée ». Vue générale du site au cours des fouilles ã Ministère de l’Archéologie Pointes de flèches dégagées du site. ã Ministère des Antiquités Il s’agit d’une forteresse en forme carrée, de 200 m x 200 m, qui a été consolidée par 4 tours dressées dans les quatre coins. Lors des travaux de la mission, l’une des entrées de l’édifice de défense a aussi été découverte dans la partie nord-est du site. « C’est l’une des portes latérales », explique Hishâm Husayn, directeur général des antiquités égyptiennes du Nord-Sinaï, ajoutant que « à droite de cette porte ont été trouvées les fondations d’une pièce qui, probablement, servait de chambre de garde, et depuis cette pièce, l’entrée et la sortie de ce côté de la forteresse étaient contrôlées ». D’après Husayn, la forteresse reflète l’architecture militaire de l’époque de la XXVIe dynastie. Les murailles font jusqu’à 10 mètres d’épaisseur. Et celles, côté nord, sont, en plus, consolidées avec des piliers internes et externes. Ce type architectural est privé de tout luxe, contrairement aux gigantesques bâtiments du Nouvel Empire. « Les documents retracent que la forteresse de Tell al-Kidwa était la seule à contrôler l’entrée et la sortie des frontières égyptiennes pendant la XXVIe dynastie. Ce qui explique pourquoi elle était si imposante, car c’était l’unique endroit pour sécuriser les limites Est du pays contre les diverses invasions des ennemis », explique le directeur Husayn, assurant que cette forteresse a été fortement attaquée pendant la moitié de la XXVIe dynastie et ses murs ont été détruits. Les membres de la mission ont aussi trouvé une amulette en faïence sur laquelle est inscrit le nom du bâtisseur de la forteresse, le roi Psammétique Ier qui est aussi le fondateur de la XXVIe dynastie. En outre, de grands fours cylindriques, dont le diamètre du plus grand dépasse les 1,50 mètre, ont été révélés. « Ils étaient utilisés pour fondre les métaux, qui servaient dans la fabrication des armes, comme le cuivre et le bronze. Ce qui explique l’épaisse couche de cendre qui couvre le site », explique Husayn. Y ont été trouvées aussi des pointes de flèche de cuivre, qui auraient pu être fabriquées à cette époque sur le site. Selon le BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 ã Ministère de l’Archéologie 200 Mai 2019 À la fin de cette époque, une autre citadelle a été dressée sur les vestiges de celle de Psammétique Ier. Celle-ci a été découverte par l’Université Ben Gourion du Néguev pendant l’occupation israélienne du Sinaï. « Bien que la superficie de cette citadelle soit plus petite, ses murailles sont plus épaisses, leurs largeurs atteignant 11 mètres. Et elle possède 16 tours », souligne Nâdya Khidr, directrice générale du département central des monuments de la Basse-Égypte. YOYOTTE, sur le site de Gourob. À cela s’ajoute la mission franco-italienne, dirigée par le Prof Claudio Gallazzi, qui a fouillé deux mois sur le site de Umm al-Buraygât (Tebtynis). (Rabâb alGâlî, « Une mission de l’Ifao fouille le mois prochain à Girzâ dans le Fayyûm », al-Yawm alSâbi‘, 22 mai 2019. Voir également “Ifao to resume excavation in Fayyûm for 3rd season: official”, Egypt Today, May 23). Les travaux de fouille continuent toujours sur le site pour dégager le reste des vestiges de la forteresse, car les égyptologues estiment que le site dissimule encore des trésors et des secrets à dévoiler dans les prochaines saisons de fouille. (Doaa Elhami, « Les murailles de Tell al-Kidwa refont surface », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 22 mai 2019. Voir également « Découverte au Nord-Sinaï de vestiges d’une forteresse militaire datant de Psammétique Ier », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 13 mai ; Ahmad Mansûr, « Découverte au Nord-Sinaï de vestiges d’une forteresse militaire datant de Psammétique Ier », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 13 mai ; Sanâ’ Fârûq, « Nouvelle découverte de vestiges d’une forteresse militaire à Tell Kidwa », Watanî, 13 mai ; Mustafa Marie, “Min.: Ancient military fortress discovered in Tell al-Kidwa”, Egypt Today, May 14; Muhammad ‘Abd al-Mu‘tî, « Découverte au Nord-Sinaï de vestiges de forteresses militaires », al-Ahrâm, 14 mai ;“Archaeological team uncovers ancient fortress towers in North Sinai”, Egypt Independent, May 14). Jeudi 23 mai 2019 - - Le directeur général des antiquités du Fayyûm, Sayyid al-Shûra, a annoncé qu’une mission de l’Institut français d’archéologie orientale (Ifao) reprendra le mois prochain sa troisième saison de fouilles sur le site de Kom al-Kharâba al-Kabîr, Girzâ (Philadelphie), sous la direction de Ruey-Lin CHANG. Plusieurs missions archéologiques étrangères ont travaillé dans le Fayyûm cette saison. Il s’agit, par exemple, de la mission allemande dans la zone de Watfa ; de la mission américano-hollandaise à Kom Ûshîm; de la mission française, dirigée par Marine BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 - - Hawwâs along with archaeologists and scientists during the CT scan examination of the royal mummies at the Egyptian Museum The beautiful queen Nefertiti, wife of the monotheistic king Akhenaten, has always perplexed archaeologists. Nefertiti acquired unprecedented power during the first 12 years of the reign of her husband, and she occupied the throne alongside him and appeared nearly twice as often in reliefs as Akhenaten during the first five years of his reign. She continued to appear in reliefs even when, in the 12th year of Akhenaten’s reign, she disappeared from the scene and her name vanished from the pages of history. Some think she either died from plague or fell out of favour, but recent theories have denied such claims. Four images of Nefertiti adorn Akhenaten’s sarcophagus, not the usual goddesses, indicating that her importance to the pharaoh continued up until his death and disproving the idea that she fell out of favour. They also show her continuous role as a deity or semi-deity with Akhenaten. Shortly after her disappearance, Akhenaten took a co-regent to the throne. The identity of 201 Mai 2019 this person has created speculation. One theory says it was Nefertiti herself in a new guise as a “female king,” like the female Pharaohs Sobkneferu and Hatshepsut who ruled the country for several years. Another theory introduces the idea of two co-regents, a male one called Smenkhkare and Nefertiti under the name of Neferneferuaten. Some scholars believe that Nefertiti became co-regent with her husband and that her role as queen consort was taken over by her eldest daughter Meritaten. Although her iconic bust, now on display at the Neues Museum in Berlin, was unearthed in an artist’s workshop at Tell al-Amarna in 1912 by German archaeologist Ludwig BORCHARDT, neither her tomb nor her mummy have yet been unearthed. Back in 1898, French Egyptologist Victor LORET excavated the tomb of Amenhotep II in the Theban Necropolis and came upon a remarkable find. This was the first tomb ever opened in which the pharaoh was still in his original resting place, and, moreover, 11 other mummies were also discovered in a sealed chamber in the tomb, nine belonging to members of the royal family. Eight of the mummies were transferred to the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, and three were left in situ due to their critical state of preservation. One of this trio of mummies is a female who had managed to retain her remarkable beauty and is known among Egyptologists as the “Elder Lady”. She was identified as queen Tiye, the chief wife of the Pharaoh Amenhotep III. A mummy of a young prince, not identified, bears a facial resemblance to that of Tiye’s mummy, suggesting it could be prince Thutmose, the eldest son of Amenhotep III. As for the third mummy, known as the “Younger Lady”, Egyptologists sway between thinking it is queen Nefertiti and princess Sitamun, a daughter of Tiye and Amenhotep III. BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Research was carried out at an early stage to verify whether the mummy of the Younger Lady was, in fact, Nefertiti, but to no avail. Over the years, scientists have tried to identify the mummy of Nefertiti and determine her real facial features through carrying out scientific and archaeological research or using technology. But all attempts have thus far failed and been considered as mere speculation. Now, however, some historians believe Nefertiti has already been found and currently lies in the Egyptian Museum in Cairo. In 2003, Joann FLETCHER, a mummification expert from the University of York in the UK, announced that she and her team may have identified the mummy of the queen, as she believes that Nefertiti’s mummy could be that of the Younger Lady. She based her conclusions on a number of factors, such as its similarity in physiognomy and the swan-like neck of the mummy that bears a resemblance to Nefertiti’s face as immortalised in the limestone bust in Berlin, a doubled-pierced ear lobe, which she claims was a rare fashion statement in ancient Egypt and that can clearly be seen in images of Nefertiti, and a shaven head and the impression of the tight-fitting brow-band worn by royalty. FLETCHER’s hypothesis has not been accepted by many Egyptologists, however. The x-ray examination carried out on the mummy of the Younger Lady prior to FLETCHER’s theory indicated that it was a 16year-old girl, whereas Nefertiti is thought to have died in her 30s. Without comparative DNA studies, any speculation about the owner of the mummy is dubious. In 2015, British Egyptologist Nicholas REEVES made headlines by announcing his belief that Nefertiti was buried in a secret chamber located behind the west and north walls of Tutankhamun’s tomb in the Valley of the Kings. But after three scan trials on the tomb’s walls the theory proved a failure, as well as 202 Mai 2019 receiving criticism from other Egyptologists and historians. Even so, it does demonstrate the enduring fascination with Nefertiti and finding her mummy. poorly preserved female mummies, one of them headless, found in 1870 by Italian explorer Giovanni BELZONI inside tomb KV21 in the Valley of the Kings in Luxor,” he said. “Samples of foetuses found in the tomb of Tutankhamun were also taken for analysis,” Hawwâs told the Weekly, adding that these had long been thought to be the stillborn daughters of Tutankhamun and his royal wife Ankhesenamun, the daughter of Akhenaten and Nefertiti. New attempts: In an attempt to put an end to the Nefertiti mystery, the second phase of the Egyptian Mummies Project, whose first phase started in 2005 to solve the mystery of the death of the boy-king Tutankhamun, has resumed to study the rest of the royal mummies. The project will begin with those on display at the Egyptian Museum in Cairo before their relocation to the National Museum of Egyptian Civilisation (NMEC) in Fustât. “CT scans on all the royal mummies now on display at the Egyptian Museum in Cairo that will be transferred to the NMEC were carried out last month,” said former minister of antiquities Zâhî Hawwâs, highlighting that among the most important was the mummy belonging to king Seqenenre because previous studies had revealed it to be in a poor conservation condition. Seqenenre is thought to have died from a blow from an axe during battles against the Hyksos, a foreign group that had invaded Egypt. However, some claim he was assassinated in his sleep. Hawwâs said that the earlier study had not used scientific analysis or CT scans. More recent studies had found that the wounds on the mummy were from a battle against the Hyksos and that the pharaoh had died during battle. In September, a fresh search for Nefertiti’s mummy will begin. “We have prepared for such a search by the identification of two BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 “Comparison between their DNA and the headless mummy revealed that the headless KV21 mummy was in fact the mother of the two foetuses, which should mean that this was Tutankhamun’s wife queen Ankhesenamun,” Hawwâs said. He pointed out that the mummies from KV21 were in poor conservation condition due to the effects of floods that have swept through the Valley and into the tomb. To prevent further degradation of the remains, the mummies were moved to the Egyptian Museum in Cairo for conservation. “I believe that the second female mummy in KV21 could be none other than queen Nefertiti,” Hawwâs said, explaining that the ancient Egyptians sometimes placed mother and daughter near each other in burial chambers. This was the case in tomb KV35, where the mummy of Tutankhamun’s grandmother queen Tiye was placed next to the mummy of one of Tiye’s many daughters, a woman revealed by DNA tests to be Tutankhamun’s mother. He continued by saying that the Egyptian Mummies Project would also begin the search for other mummies that belonged to Nefertiti’s family, including her five other missing daughters and her sister queen Mut Nedjment in order to compare them with the second mummy without a head in KV21. However, “I have not been able to find the remains of Mut Nedjment that were previously located by Egyptologist Geoffrey MARTIN 203 Mai 2019 inside the tomb of her husband Horemhab in Saqqâra,” Hawwâs said. Paleopathologist Eugen STROUHAL, Hawwâs said, had studied these remains, which included the skull, and determined that Mutnodjmet had died at about the age of 40 and may have died during labour since the bones of a foetus or newborn were found with her. “If these bones can ever be DNA tested, they could yield many important clues about Tutankhamun’s family,” he added. “Although I do not really trust DNA tests, I decided in 2005 to study such a project in order to begin about a new era of scientific research on mummies to be carried out by Egyptian archaeologists and scientists who are experts in the field in collaboration with foreign experts and scholars and directed by myself,” Hawwâs told Al-Ahram Weekly. (…) This scenario favours the theory of an accident causing a fracture and the open wound leading to a probable infection and death. Today, Hawwâs said, scientific analysis could test the theory and reveal whether the infection was the cause that led to the king’s death. Yahya Gâd, a professor of molecular genetics at the National Research Centre who heads the committee dealing with paleobiology, said that the project would not only reveal the health of the ancient Egyptian royals and their genetic diseases but their linages as well. It could help find the answers to many historical questions and mysteries, he added. The project would also determine the microbes that affected the mummies in order to find ways of restoring them. (Nevine ElAref, “Finding Nefertiti?”, Al-Ahram Weekly, May 23, 2019). - Tutankhamun: Further studies will also be made on the mummy of Tutankhamun to reveal the exact cause of his death. Hawwâs told the Weekly that the general health of Tutankhamun might have been affected by the high degree of inbreeding he had been exposed to, and radiological evidence carried out in the first phase of the Mummies Project had undermined the possibility of murder by head blows and revealed a fracture in his left femur just above the knee. Radiological imaging of the left knee had also pointed to an early bone reaction to fracture and hence a short period predating death. BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 - Le ministre de l’Archéologie, Dr Khâlid al‘Inânî, a reçu l’ambassadeur de NouvelleZélande au Caire, S.E.M. Greg LEWIS, fraîchement nommé à son poste. L’entretien a porté sur le renforcement des relations bilatérales dans le domaine archéologique et l’échange d’expertises. Les deux responsables ont abordé la restitution de quelques pièces archéologiques léguées en 1920 par un Néozélandais au musée Whanganui. Il est prévu de remettre ces pièces, le mois prochain, à l’ambassade d’Égypte à Wellington, en vue de leur retour au pays. (Samar al-Naggâr, « Entretien entre le ministre de l’Archéologie et l’ambassadeur de 204 Mai 2019 Nouvelle-Zélande au Yawm, 23 mai 2019). - Caire », al-Masrî al- - du fer à béton armé. On relève également la chute de fragments du minaret, ainsi que la présence de nombreuses fissures dans le mausolée et le reste de la mosquée. Director of the Karnak Antiquities Region Qadhâfî ‘Abd al-Rahîm stated that restoration works are resuming in the temples of Karnak and Luxor and that a new budget plan was developed over the past few days. The new budget plan will be examined and discussed by the archaeological experts of the country. The director of the Karnak Antiquities Region stated that the new budget plan includes a number of important archaeological temples. The restoration plan will continue throughout the year at a steady pace and will prioritize places that need immediate restoration. There is also continuous follow-up by the management of restoration and maintenance of monuments on the achieved progress. The restoration department completed preparing and rehabilitating the passages in the second visit axis of the Karnak Temple which extends between the seventh and tenth edifices in light of the ministry’s plan to rehabilitate the archaeological sites and museums for visitors, especially those with special needs. (Mustafa Marie, “Restoration of temples resume in Luxor”, Egypt Today, May 23, 2019). - Il y a quelques années, un bureau d’études et d’architecture avait recommandé le démontage de la totalité du plafond qui menaçait ruine. Le Conseil Suprême des Antiquités avait alors fait établir un devis qui s’élevait à près de 400 000 L.E. Aujourd’hui, les travaux de restauration architecturale et de renouvellement du réseau d’égout responsable des dégâts s’élèvent à 16 millions L.E. Aucune décision n’a encore été prise. (Hind Ibrâhîm, « La restauration de la mosquée Sîdî Shibl incombe au ministère de l’Archéologie », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 24 mai 2019. Voir également Muhammad al-‘Isâwî, « Divergence entre les ministères des Waqfs et de l’Archéologie autour de la restauration de la mosquée Sîdî Shibl », al-Ahrâm, 26 mai). - - Mardi 28 mai 2019 - Vendredi 24 mai 2019 De nouveaux fragments du plafond sont tombés sur la tête des fidèles en prière à l’intérieur de la mosquée Sîdî Shibl al-Aswad, l’une des plus grandes mosquées d’alMunûfiyya. Ces chutes sont dues à l’érosion BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 A church dating back to the fourth century has been unearthed near Alexandria by polish archaeologists who claim that it might be oldest church discovered in Egypt, The First News reported. The discovery is based on research conducted by a team from the University of 205 Mai 2019 Warsaw’s Center of Mediterranean Archaeology since 2000, alongside intensive fieldwork. The mission’s discoveries in Alexandria also include a burial chapel and the largest collection of ceramics excavated in Egypt yet, according to The First News. The polish team had been excavating a Basilica, which they believed had operated from the fifth century well until the eighth century, when they uncovered the ancient church buried beneath it. “At the end of the last research season, under the floor of the basilica, we encountered a wall’s remains, which turned out to be the outer walls of an even older church,” Krzysztof BABRAJ, who headed research work on the basilica told The First News. BABRAJ explained that there are no other church remains have been found in the area so far, making this a significant discovery. Thousands of fragments of the old church have been excavated underneath the discovered Basilica. The church had been devastated by an earthquake, leaving behind nothing but scattered glass, ceramic and limestone wall ruins, according to The First News. BABRAJ said that they will resume their research, with the discovery of this church as a just the beginning. (Mira Maged, “Polish archaeologists claim discovery of oldest church in Egypt”, Egypt Independent, May 28, 2019. Voir également Basant Gamîl, « Les vestiges d’une église alexandrine offrent une nouvelle vision de l’introduction du BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 christianisme en Égypte », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 28 mai ; Yusrâ al-Sharqâwî, « Découverte à Alexandrie des vestiges de la plus ancienne église », al-Ahrâm, 29 mai). - - Mercredi 29 mai 2019 22 momies royales quitteront le Musée égyptien du Caire, en septembre prochain, pour être exposées au nouveau Musée national de la Civilisation égyptienne (NMEC), situé à Fustât. La fragilité et l’importance historique des momies rendent la mission délicate. Ainsi, des mesures de grande envergure doivent être prises pour garantir la réussite de ce transfert. Sur les 22 momies qui seront transférées, 16 sont actuellement exposées dans deux salles du Musée Égyptien, alors que les 6 restantes n’ont jamais été montrées et se trouvent dans les entrepôts du musée. « Les momies sont des pièces très fragiles. Elles doivent être traitées avec beaucoup de soin lors du transfert pour qu’elles puissent supporter la vibration de la route. Et aussi, il faut pouvoir contrôler la chaleur et les gaz lors du transfert, surtout que les vitrines sont dépourvues d’oxygène pour garantir une bonne conservation des corps royaux », explique Sabâh ‘Abd al-Râziq, directrice du Musée Égyptien, assurant que toutes les momies seront transférées avec leurs vitrines du Musée Égyptien à celui de Fustât. « Bien que les vitrines subissent des travaux de maintenance régulière, elles seront soumises à des travaux supplémentaires pour garantir leurs états », reprend ‘Abd al-Râziq, assurant 206 Mai 2019 qu’elle n’est pas inquiète de faire sortir les momies du musée et que leur déplacement, bien qu’il soit très délicat, n’est pas difficile. « Toutes les mesures de sécurité doivent être prises pour que le transfert soit à la hauteur des rois et des reines qui seront déplacés », annonce le célèbre égyptologue Zâhî Hawwâs qui se souvient du cortège organisé depuis l’aéroport du Caire en 2003 lors du retour de la momie du roi Ramsès Ier du musée Michael Carlos d’Atlanta, des ÉtatsUnis, momie qui avait été volée il y a plus de 120 ans. Selon lui, les momies royales ont un charme énigmatique spécial, et leur transfert de la place Tahrîr jusqu’au Vieux-Caire, à Fustât, sera suivi par le monde entier. Elles vont traverser des rues cairotes, près de 7 km, dans un cortège royal militaire. Une célébration sans précédent qui pourrait être encore plus importante que celle de la statue colossale de Ramsès II, de la place portant son nom, au centre-ville, vers sa destination finale au nouveau Grand Musée Égyptien (GEM), près du plateau des pyramides. « Une fois les momies transférées, d’autres non royales mais d’une grande importance historique seront exposées à leur place dans un nouveau scénario muséal, donnant des informations supplémentaires sur les momies à travers des multimédias modernes », indique ‘Abd al-Râziq, donnant l’exemple de la momie hurlante, dont la découverte remonte à 1881, à al-Dayr al-Baharî, et celle de la nourrice de la reine Hatchepsout « Satrê », qui étaient toutes les deux conservées depuis leur découverte dans les entrepôts du musée. À noter que le Musée Égyptien du Caire regroupe une riche collection de momies découvertes dans les quatre coins du pays, BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 notamment un certain nombre de momies animales. « Même si notre musée antique perd une partie de sa collection, il renferme beaucoup d’autres pièces riches historiquement et scientifiquement », déclaret-elle, ajoutant que le Musée Égyptien ne perdra jamais son charme et continuera toujours à fasciner. Quant au NMEC, il se prépare également pour ce grand événement, qui marquera la date de l’inauguration officielle de trois de ses salles parmi lesquelles celle des momies royales. Selon les dernières déclarations ministérielles, la salle centrale, celle des momies et la tour, qui est en forme pyramidale, sont les trois salles qui seront inaugurées au dernier trimestre de cette année. « Le NMEC doit être prêt à accueillir la collection singulière des momies », annonce Khâlid ‘Azab, nouveau directeur du Musée de Fustât, assurant qu’au cours des derniers mois, les travaux se déroulaient d’arrache-pied au musée pour être prêt à accueillir les pièces antiques qui seront exposées dans les trois nouvelles salles et surtout celle des momies. « Une fois les momies arrivées à leur nouvel emplacement, elles seront sujettes à une observation minutieuse pour s’assurer de leur état après le transfert », souligne ‘Azab, expliquant que chaque momie sera accompagnée d’un buste ou d’une statue du même roi ou reine pour enrichir la muséologie de la salle. Les 22 momies ne seront pas toutes exposées, puisque quelques-unes seront consacrées aux études des spécialistes. « Nous n’avons pas encore décidé combien de momies seront exposées au public », a-t-il repris. Avec l’annonce du transfert des momies royales du centre-ville à Fustât, les avis sont partagés, notamment à cause de la position géographique du lieu. Pour les uns, l’accès au musée est difficile et n’est pas une destination convenable pour les touristes. D’après ‘Azab, le musée, le lac ‘Ayn al-Sîra, et toute la région jouissent actuellement d’un projet de développement et de réaménagement qui 207 Mai 2019 facilitera l’accès au musée. « Les momies seront conservées dans leurs vitrines loin de l’humidité ou de la chaleur, car le bâtiment est très bien aéré. Et on va mettre des équipements spéciaux pour le réglage de la température et de l’humidité. Les momies trouveront une destination confortable », assure-t-il. À noter que les responsables au musée se préparent non seulement pour recevoir les momies, mais aussi pour pouvoir inaugurer les trois autres salles. « Tout doit être prêt, les laboratoires qui sont au total de 11, quelques nouvelles vitrines, les moyens de sécurité, les films documentaires et les dioramas, en plus des conservateurs et inspecteurs capables d’expliquer et de répondre à toutes les questions des visiteurs. On ne doit pas se précipiter ; le tout doit être prêt. Parce qu’une fois le musée inauguré, on doit garantir sa continuité », conclut ‘Azab. (Nasma Réda, « Les momies royales se préparent au transfert à Fustât », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 29 mai 2019. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « Zâhî Hawwâs : Les momies royales seront transférées du Musée Égyptien vers le NMEC le 15 juin », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 4 mai ; ‘Alâ’ alMinyâwî, « Hawwâs : Les momies royales seront transférées de Tahrîr vers le NMEC mijuin dans un cortège impressionnant », Sada al-Balad, 4 mai ; Angy Essam, “Royal mummies to be Transferred from Egyptian Museum to NMEC on June.15”, Egypt Today, May 11 ; “Royal Mummies to be Transferred to NMEC from Egyptian Museum”, Egyptian Streets, May 12 ; Zâhî Hawwâs, « Transfert des momies : Une parade dans les rues du Caire », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 14 mai). - - Several residents in Naga‘ Abû ‘Usba at the Karnak area committed numerous violations that needed to be removed in order to complete the project according to the statement, adding that this would represent a big leap forward in Egypt’s tourism. Minyâ police, in cooperation with local authorities, also removed 33 violations on the Nile River. Two infringements of state-owned land across a 130-meter area on the Bâwîtî road in Banî Mazâr, Minyâ, were addressed by the police in accordance with the orders of Minyâ Governor Qâsim Husayn. (“Luxor authorities remove resident violations on Kibâsh road”, Egypt Independent, May 29, 2019. Voir également Muhammad al-Samkûrî, « Le gouvernorat de Louqsor combat les empiètements sur le Dromos », al-Masrî alYawm, 28 mai ; « L’Égypte dépense 400 millions L.E. pour ressusciter le Dromos », alShurûq, 28 mai ; Rânyâ ‘Abd al-‘Âtî, « Poursuite du projet du Dromos », al-Ahrâm, 29 mai). - - Jeudi 30 mai 2019 Luxor’s executive authorities launched a campaign on Tuesday to remove numerous violations on the governorate’s main roads, particularly the Kibâsh road, which extends for 2,700 meters from the Luxor Temple to the Karnak Temple. Overlooking the Pyramids on the Gîza Plateau, the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) with its eye-catching trapezoidal architectural design and distinguished external wall is surrounded by workers, engineers and consultants all wearing gloves and yellow helmets and hard at work. In a Tuesday statement, Luxor’s governor said that this renovation of the Kibâsh road aims to turn Luxor into an open-air museum, a project that would revive interest in the area. They are absorbed and driven in spite of the heat to complete the construction of the long-awaited 500,000 square metres of the new museum, whose spacious, transparent BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 208 Mai 2019 marble-fronted building offers an enormous panoramic view of the Gîza Plateau. “The work is at full swing, and the site is a hive of activity to complete this gigantic and long-awaited project,” ‘Âtif Muftâh, supervisor-general of the GEM project, told Al-Ahram Weekly. The project is almost complete architecturally in work that has been done in collaboration with the Engineering Authority of the Armed Forces, but the archaeological displays are still being completed. Muftâh said a final revision of the bid documents was taking place in order to launch work in June among the shortlist of companies and consortiums that were selected last year to enter the open tender to manage the facilities of the GEM. Muftâh described the GEM as “the largest and most significant cultural project in the world today that will change Egypt’s tourism map. It will be a wonderful attraction that will blend history with a modern and authentic twist.” Egypt is the world capital of cultural tourism, he said, adding that nothing could make a bolder statement than when this magnificent new museum sees its official opening with the completion of the Gîza Plateau Development Project and the area around the GEM as a whole. The facilities include a 1,000-seat conference centre, a 500-seat cinema, eight restaurants, with two overlooking the Gîza Pyramids, an open-air theatre, food courts, bookshops and other retail outlets with 28 shops, a traditional arts and crafts centre, a spacious piazza for festivals of more than 15,000 participants and a multifunctional building. Muftâh said that the Ministry of Antiquities was the only authority responsible for the management and security of the GEM’s collection, as well as everything related to antiquities, such as the exhibition halls, the maintenance and restoration centre, and the children’s museum. In the development of the area surrounding the GEM, the al-Rimâya Club has been relocated to another place on the Cairo‘Ayn al-Sukhna Road and its previous area will be connected to another 52-feddan plot of land located beside the ring road to form a cultural and entertainment zone for the museum’s visitors and the area’s inhabitants. He said that the surface area of the indoor exhibition was 35,000 metres and the outdoor one was 55,000 metres, while the commercial and investment area was more than 65,000 metres and would provide revenue for the project. Muftâh added that after the opening of the museum and the development of the area around it, more and more tourists will want to extend their stays in Cairo from the present two to five nights or beyond. A state-of-the-art security system has been installed in the museum to detect the movement of every artefact in the collection as well as the corridors, galleries, laboratories, storage areas, and the garden via cameras installed inside and outside the museum and in its external walls. The area around the GEM was also now under development in collaboration with the ministries of housing and new urban communities, defence, and irrigation along with the Cairo governorate. The project will be executed in phases, with the first one already started with the building of the surrounding roads. BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 209 Mai 2019 Two roads with four lanes each have been created in the northern and southern areas to reduce traffic around the GEM, in addition to the digging of the 1.2km Fayyûm Road Tunnel to solve traffic problems in the area between al-Rimâya Square, the Faysal and Pyramid Roads and the Fayyûm-Alexandria Road. “Ninety-five per cent of the work has been completed, and the digging of the tunnel has already started beside the land of the alRimâya Club,” Muftâh said. He added that a metro station would be built in the vicinity of the GEM, with ideas in the pipeline to lay on transport between the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, the GEM, and the National Museum of Egyptian Civilisation. used was imported from Italy. The cost had increased to almost $200 million in 2016-2017 when the construction of the wall began. As a result, Muftâh said a decision had been taken to rationalise the construction without compromising the quality of the material used. “We kept the original vision of the designer, but with a little twist,” Muftâh said, adding that Egyptian materials were used in the wall construction instead such as the transparent marble and metal frame at a lesser cost. These are being studied by the Prime Minister and the ministers of Antiquities, and Housing, and the Cairo and Gîza governors. EXHIBITION: The newly transported obelisk from the Sân al-Hagar archaeological site in Zaqâzîq will be part of the collection of the GEM. It will be put on show in the Obelisk Square at the GEM’s main entrance. It will be the first obelisk in the world to be placed in a special display offering visitors the opportunity to walk beneath it and see the cartouche of king Ramses II engraved on its bottom. Ancient Egyptian royal figures used to engrave their cartouches on the bottoms of obelisks as a mark of ownership. The estimated cost of the GEM project is $1.6 billion, with costs increasing as a result of various delays but still being trimmed by some $770 million. Some 44 of the 87 large objects that will be exhibited on the GEM’s grand staircase have been transported. The GEM project was launched in 2002 in order to build a state-of-the-art antiquities museum near the Gîza Pyramids to solve the problems of the overstuffed Egyptian Museum in Tahrîr Square and to bring together materials stored at various archaeological sites across the country. The museum will centre on what has been called the “Dunnal Eye”, an area containing the main exhibition spaces. From this central hub, a network of streets, piazzas and bridges will link the museum’s many sections. The design is by Shih-Fu PENG of the Dublin architectural firm Heneghan, winner of the international architectural competition held in 2003. Muftâh told the Weekly that the GEM had a 17-metre esplanade in front of it and a striking architectural design that incorporated a wall 50 metres high and 800 metres long with a total surface of 27,000 square metres. The GEM is to display a collection of 100,000 objects from ancient Egypt beginning with prehistory and going up to the early Roman period. Among the objects on display will be the unique objects of the boy king Tutankhamun. The design was complicated, and its construction would cost $186 million according to a study carried out at the beginning of the project because the marble It will house a conference centre with an auditorium seating 1,000 and catering to theatrical performances, concerts, conferences and business meetings. The main auditorium BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 210 Mai 2019 will be supplemented with seminar rooms, meeting rooms, a multi-purpose hall suitable for a variety of events, and an open-plan gallery for accompanying exhibitions. A 7,000-square metre commercial area with retail shops, cafeterias, restaurants, leisure and recreational activities is planned for the ground-floor level, as well as a 250-seat cinema. The first and second phases of the GEM were completed in 2010. They included the construction of a power plant, fire station, and fully equipped conservation centre built 10 metres below ground level. The centre has 12 laboratories and four storage galleries. It is believed to be the largest such facility in the world and is intended as a regional, as well as an Egyptian, expert centre. The museum’s storage rooms are equipped with units designed for secure storage and easy access. The environment is determined by the materials kept in the individual rooms, whether they are organic or non-organic, or require low temperatures to optimise preservation. The project is funded by the Egyptian government and two loans from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), which in 2006 provided the first soft loan of $300 million to be repaid over 30 years at 1.5 per cent interest. Payments will be made in instalments after a 10-year grace period following the GEM’s official opening. The second soft loan is for some $460 million, which the government will repay over 25 years at an interest rate of 1.4 per cent after a seven-year grace period. BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Another $27 million has been donated by Egyptian businessmen, while the Ministry of Culture under the former Mubârak regime provided $150 million. However, problems encountered after the 25 January Revolution led to budgetary problems, slowing the construction of the new museum. In 2012, a joint venture between Egypt’s Orascom Construction Industries (OCI) and the Belgian BESIX Group was awarded the contract for the completion of the GEM’s third phase, which includes the construction of the museum’s main building and landscaping. The museum will be opened to the public in 2020. (Nevine El-Aref, “GEM countdown begins”, Al-Ahram Weekly, May 30, 2019. Voir également Walaa Ali, “GEM to be inaugurated in last quarter of 2020”, Egypt Today, May 1st ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Le monde entire attend le GEM », Sada al-Balad, 13 mai; Radwa Hâshim, « Zâhî Hawwâs : Le GEM sera le plus important projet culturel au monde », alWatan, 14 mai). - - Almost a year after its relocation from the Salâh al-Dîn Citadel in Cairo to its new permanent display space in the atrium of the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), reports Nevine Al-Aref, the column of the Pharaoh Merenptah is now standing beside the colossus of his father Ramses II ready to greet visitors to the museum. The column was transported from the citadel where it has been kept since 2006 for conservation and preservation purposes. It was originally discovered in 1970 among other architectural elements from the ruins of Merenptah mortuary temple in the ancient city of Heliopolis, now the Cairo suburb of 211 Mai 2019 Matariyya, where it had suffered deterioration due to high levels of subsoil water. Director of first-aid restoration at the GEM Îsa Zaydân explained that great care had been taken before the column’s transportation and that it had been comprehensively studied to detect and consolidate weak points. It had taken eight hours to prepare the column for transportation and two hours for its journey to the GEM, he said. A wooden base padded with layers of foam had been designed for the column, and it had been tied with carefully tensioned rope to safeguard it during transportation. The Tourism and Antiquities Police accompanied it on its journey. Upon its arrival, it was examined, and further restoration work was completed. “Lifting up the column to stand beside the colossus of his father was not an easy task,” Zaydân told Al-Ahram Weekly. He said that the process was “a challenge” that had taken two days of work with the help of a special company under the supervision of archaeologists and restorers from the GEM Conservation Centre. The column is 5.6m tall and weighs 10 tons. It is carved of red granite, while the base is made of limestone. It is decorated with engravings showing the Pharaoh’s different titles and scenes commemorating his victory against Libyan tribes. Re, who holds the ankh sign in one hand and a curved dagger in the other. He gives the dagger to the Pharaoh, saying “take the slander of all foreign lands.” Wearing the blue crown, Merenptah offers incense to a worshipper, Anat, who holds the sign of the ankh in her left hand and presents him with her hand to help suppress rebels. He also appears wearing the double crown inscribed with the royal prayer offering bread to the mother of the god Ra Hor Akhti, who encourages the Pharaoh to act against foreign countries. (Nevine El-Aref, “Greetings at the GEM”, Al-Ahram Weekly, May 30, 2019. Voir également Radwa Hâshim, « La colonne de Mérenptah rejoint son emplacement définitif au GEM », al-Watan, 22 mai ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « La colonne de Mérenptah transférée au GEM », Sada al-Balad, 22 mai ; Muhammad ‘Abd al-Mu‘tî, « La colonne de Mérenptah repose au GEM », al-Ahrâm, 24 mai). - - Coptic Museum cc Ameera Mostafa The Coptic Museum is organizing a temporary exhibition on Sunday, June 2 under the title "Holy Journey" on the occasion of the anniversary of the arrival of the Holy Family to Egypt. Head of the Museums Sector Ilhâm Salâh said that the exhibition features a collection of artifacts that reflect the journey of the Holy Family, some stereoscopic models illustrating the path of the journey and a variety of distinguished artistic activities. Scenes at the top of the column show him wearing the red crown of ancient Egypt and offering incense and wine to the god Amun BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 In the same context, Director General of the Coptic Museum Gîhân ‘Âtif stated that a scene portraying the Holy Family’s journey will be displayed, in addition to hosting a number of musical performances. 212 Mai 2019 The exhibition will also display paintings illustrating the journey of the Holy Family by iconic Coptic artist Bishoy Rif’at. Also, ‘Âtif pointed out that the museum’s educational section will present an artistic workshop, guided tours for visitors and an educational lecture on the journey of the Holy Family to the land of Egypt. (Mustafa Marie, “Coptic Museum organizes 'Holy Journey' exhibition on June 2”, Egypt Today, May 30, 2019. Voir également Samar al-Naggâr, « Le Musée copte consacre une exposition au séjour de la Sainte Famille en Égypte », alMasrî al-Yawm, 30 mai ; Ahmad Mansûr, « Le Musée copte organise une exposition autour du voyage de la Sainte Famille en Égypte », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 30 mai). - - supervised by a group of competent trainers from various scientific centers. The newly uncovered archaeological house dates back to the Ptolemaic era and was part of an ancient complex. A collection of silver coins, saddles and pieces of pottery were found inside. The pottery discovered inside the house remains had Greek texts engraved on them. Tûna al-Gabal archaeological site Excavation works of the School of Excavations of the scientific center of training in Central Egypt’s Tûna al-Gabal resulted in the discovery of remains of an ancient house that was part of a residential complex from the Ptolemaic period. This discovery is the first work of the School of Excavations in its first season. al-Hafâyr School (School of Excavations) was established in Central Egypt, under Order No. 50 of January 20 2016. The Scientific Center for Training in Central Egypt established the first School of Excavations in the archaeological area of Tûna al-Gabal to train the inspectors of archaeology on the latest excavations methods using advanced technical tools. Fifteen inspectors representing the governorates of Central Egypt were highly trained. Their training was BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Remains of an ancient house that was part of a residential complex from the Ptolemaic period Director General of Central Egypt Antiquities Gamâl al-Simistâwî stated that excavation works also included the surface cleaning of the modern layer of the site. It was found that the house was designed in the style of a tower, which was the common design used during the Ptolemaic era. Furthermore, the archaeological mission found remains of amphoras from the first century BC and the first century AD, in addition to the remains of animal bones for horses and donkeys. A collection of silver coins was also found inside a linen bed placed beneath one of the corners of the house. Director of the Excavation School site pointed out that the students were trained on methods of preserving the fossils of animal 213 Mai 2019 bones and classifying them. (Mustafa Marie, “New discoveries made in Tûna al-Gabal”, Egypt Today, May 30, 2019. Voir également Hiba ‘Âdil, « Après les récentes découvertes archéologiques à Tûna al-Gabal, Minyâ va renouer avec le tourisme », al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî, 23 mai ; Samar al-Naggâr, « Découverte de vestiges d’une maison ptolémaïque à Tûna alGabal », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 28 mai ; Ahmad Mansûr, « Mise au jour de vestiges d’une maison ptolémaïque à Tûna al-Gabal », al- BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 28 mai ; Muhammad ‘Abd alMu‘tî, « Mise au jour de vestiges d’une maison ptolémaïque à Tûna al-Gabal », al-Ahrâm, 29 mai). - - 214 VI – JUIN 2019 Dimanche 2 juin 2019 There are various forms of tourism, the backbone of the country’s economy, existing in Egypt; local and international tourists indulge in cultural and leisure tourism although the government is promoting the country’s potential for medical and religious tourism as well. A Holy Family “tour” was devised by the Ministry of Tourism in April 2017; it was promoted with the collaboration of Pope Francis in April of that year. The Coptic Museum is organizing a temporary exhibition on Sunday, June 2 under the title “Holy Journey” on the occasion of the anniversary of the arrival of the Holy Family to Egypt. According to Egypt Today, the exhibition will feature models illustrating the path of the journey as well as a variety of artifacts that allude to the journey as per Head of the Museums Sector Ilhâm Salâh. The exhibition will also be accompanied being a number of musical performances that will be taking place in the museum, as well as workshops guided tours and educational lectures. The Coptic Museum is a cherished and iconic establishment near the Hanging Church. Not only does it contain artifacts which record the transition of Egypt’s history and culture from Greco-Roman to early Christianity and then Islamic, the museum’s impressive artwork collection in the world. The end of the 19th century saw a peaking interest in Coptic art which has led to the increased collection and retrieval of Coptic artifacts until the proper establishment of the museum in 1910. Since then, the museum has been a home to frescoes, sculptures, clothes and manuscripts among other artifacts. BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Two Italian delegations have already been on the tour; the program is forecasted to attract a large number of tourists from all around the world. Thousands of tourists already flock to Saint Catherine’s monastery in Sinai every year as the site is considered of religious significance to world’s three major Abrahamic religions Christianity, Islam and Judaism as one of its mountains is believed to have been the place where Moses received the Ten Commandments. In an effort to promote greater international recognition of the Coptic community and to introduce this ancient, Orthodox Church to the world, 1 June 2019 has been designated to mark the inaugural celebration of the Global Coptic Day, which will continue on an annual basis. (“Coptic Museum Inaugurates ‘Holy Family Journey’ Exhibition Today”, Egyptian Streets, June 2, 2019. Voir également ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Le musée Copte commémore la fuite de la Sainte Famille en Égypte », Sada al-Balad, 2 juin ; Nâsir Subhî, « Le musée Copte consacre une exposition à la Sainte Famille », Watanî, 2 juin). - - 215 Juin 2019 Toutes les rumeurs circulant à ce sujet sont donc totalement infondées et visent à soulever l’indignation de l’opinion publique. Le ministère de l’Archéologie a nié catégoriquement les informations relayées par certains médias et des réseaux sociaux au sujet de la mise en vente par le gouvernement du palais du baron Empain. Le ministère a dénoncé ces rumeurs totalement infondées qui visent à semer la confusion et à soulever l’ire de l’opinion publique. Un plan de restauration du palais Empain est en cours d’exécution pour un montant de 100 millions L.E. Tous les travaux de restauration seront achevés dans six mois. Enfin, le ministère de l’Archéologie a exhorté les médias et les internautes à la plus grande vigilance. (Muhammad ‘Abd al-Mu‘tî, « Rumeurs autour de la mise en vente du palais Empain », alAhrâm, 2 juin 2019. Voir également Muhammad Nassâr, « Le gouvernement s’explique sur la mise en vente du palais Empain », Masrâwî, 2 juin ; « Le ministère de l’Archéologie : La vente du palais Empain n’est que rumeur », al-Watan, 2 juin ; Mahmûd Mutâwi‘, « Le palais Empain est-il mis en vente ? Réponse du gouvernement », Sada alBalad, 2 juin ; Ruz Husnî, « Le gouvernement nie la vente du palais Empain », Watanî, 2 juin ; Ahmad Mansûr, « Achèvement de 80 % des travaux de restauration du palais Empain », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 3 juin). - Le gouvernorat de Louqsor a ajouté que le retrait de tous ces empiètements s’inscrit dans le cadre de la dernière phase de réaménagement du Dromos, un projet national ambitieux pour le tourisme et le développement à Louqsor. - Le Service d’information du Conseil des ministres a nié catégoriquement les informations publiées par l’un des sites étrangers au sujet du déplacement forcé de la population de Nag‘ Abû ‘Usba, dans la région de Karnak. Le gouvernorat de Louqsor a précisé qu’il s’agit de détruire certaines habitations construites illégalement sur le tracé du Dromos. Les habitants évacués auront droit à des indemnisations rapides. BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Enfin, le gouvernorat a exhorté les médias et les internautes à faire preuve d’objectivité et à se mettre en relation avec les autorités concernées avant de publier des informations 216 Juin 2019 mensongères. (Muhammad ‘Abd al-Mu‘tî, « Les habitants de Karnak ont-ils été déplacés de force ? Réponse du gouvernement », alAhrâm, 2 juin 2019. Voir également Muhammad Mahrûs, « Destruction des habitations construites sur le Dromos à Nag‘ Abû ‘Usba », Masrâwî, 28 mai ; Hind Mukhtâr, « Le gouvernement s’explique sur les rumeurs de déplacement forcé et sans indemnisation des habitants de Nag‘ Abû ‘Usba », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 2 juin ; « Le gouverneur de Louqsor : Le déplacement forcé des habitants de Nag‘ Abû ‘Usba n’est que rumeur », al-Watan, 2 juin). - Société française d’Égyptologie. Il a également publié plusieurs ouvrages et articles scientifiques. (Samar al-Naggâr, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie reçoit le nouveau directeur de l’Ifao », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 3 juin 2019. Voir également Ahmad ‘Uthmân, « al‘Inânî reçoit le nouveau directeur de l’Ifao », al-Wafd, 3 juin ; Mahmûd ‘Abd al-Bâqî, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie : Nouvelles perspectives de coopération avec l’Ifao », Vetogate, 3 juin ; Yâsir al-Ghabîrî, « Khâlid al‘Inânî reçoit le nouveau directeur de l’Ifao », al-Bawwâba News, 3 juin). - - Vendredi 7 juin 2019 Lundi 3 juin 2019 Ministry of Immigration and Egyptian Expatriates’ Affairs congratulated the Egyptians living in Canada after the Legislative Assembly of Ontario approved the celebration of the Egyptian civilization and heritage month in Canada every year in July. Later this decision will be applied in all Canada’s cities. The Legislative Assembly of Ontario spoke about the successful examples of Egyptian immigrants in Canada like professor Huda alMarâghî the dean of the faculty of engineering and the Egyptian actor Mena Mas‘ûd. Le ministre de l’Archéologie, Dr Khâlid al‘Inânî, a reçu lundi le nouveau directeur de l’Institut français d’archéologie orientale (Ifao), Dr Laurent COULON. Celui-ci a tenu à rencontrer le ministre dès sa nomination à la tête de l’Ifao, le 1er juin 2019. L’entretien a porté sur plusieurs sujets visant à renforcer la coopération bilatérale dans les champs archéologique et muséal. Dr al-‘Inânî a insisté sur la nécessité de poursuivre la formation et l’entraînement des jeunes archéologues du ministère, ainsi que les grands projets communs, comme le réaménagement de la zone archéologique de Sân al-Hagar, située dans le gouvernorat d’alSharqiyya. Signalons que Laurent COULON est titulaire d’une thèse de doctorat d’égyptologie de l’université de Paris IV. Il a exercé différents postes scientifiques dont la présidence de la BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Ministers of Immigration, Culture, Social Solidarity and Antiquities met on Wednesday, May 8 to discuss the initial plan for the Immigration minister’s proposal to prepare for the probable celebration of the Egyptian civilization and heritage month in Canada in July. Minister of Immigration and Egyptian Expatriates’ Affairs Nabîla Makram previously met with Minister of Antiquities Khâlid al-‘Inânî and Minister of Culture Înâs ‘Abd al-Dâyim to discuss Canadian Member of Parliament Shirîf Sabawy’s bill to the legislature to recognize the month of July as Egyptian Heritage Month. The meeting aimed to benefit from bill 106 for 2019 that is being discussed at the moment in the Canadian Parliament of Ontario which declares July the Egyptian heritage month in Canada and to lay out a plan to 217 Juin 2019 advertise Egyptian archaeological discoveries and culture in Canada once the bill is approved. Lundi 10 juin 2019 The ministers prepared a memorandum on the proposal of the ceremony and was submitted by the Immigration minister to the Prime Minister immediately after the Canadian Parliament issues its decision. Declaring a month for Egyptian civilization and heritage in Canada came as a result of the efforts of MP Shirîf Sabawy, Makram said, affirming Egypt’s support for the efforts of the expats to strengthen relations between their homeland and the country where they reside. The decision enables the Egyptian community to officially praise their homeland and is an extension of the celebration of the glorious July Revolution that commemorates Egypt’s conversion to an independent republic. The meeting delivered a message of encouragement to all Egyptian communities abroad that their government supports them in any effort being made for the benefit of the country, Makram previously said, commending the recent decision of the Canadian government to update the instructions for its citizens concerning traveling to Egypt. Also, al-‘Inânî suggested that the events include a number of lectures dealing with the history of Egypt since the Pharaonic era, shedding light on its cultural heritage and reviewing the modern archaeological discoveries and its significance in the human heritage. Part of the discovered remains The Egyptian Archaeological Mission working in Tell al-Abqa‘în in the center of Hush Issa, al-Buhayra Governorate was able to trace the remains of two architectural units attached to a military fortress used as stores. The mission was also able to discover a residential building from the era of King Ramses II during the mission’s work in the north-west corner of the military fortress. For his part, Head of the Egyptian Antiquities Sector Ayman al-‘Ashmâwî stated that the two discovered units are complete and each is surrounded by the remains of a square-shaped brick wall, separated by a rectangular courtyard consisting of a controller room for silos and another for guards. al-‘Ashmâwî added that the two discovered units are stores and silos that are round and come in the shape of a beehive. He also suggested launching an initiative to invite people across Canada to visit Egypt. ‘Abd al-Dâyim suggested organizing a cultural convoy that includes a wide range of events to highlight the distinctive character of the Egyptian civilization and creativity. (“Ontario Assembly marks July as Egyptian heritage month”, Egypt Today, June 7, 2019). - - BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 218 Juin 2019 During the cleaning work, animal and fish bones were found inside, indicating that these silos were also used to store foodstuff. For her part, Head of the Central Department of Antiquities in the Nile Delta area Nâdya Khidr added that a set of pottery kilns was also found which indicates that ancient Egyptian were guided to the idea of roasting grain to cleanse insects and rid them of moisture and the impact of heat, before storing grains in silos. The mission also found a collection of pottery vessels. Director General of al-Buhayra province antiquities Khâlid ‘Abd al-Ghanî Farahât stated that during previous excavations, the mission revealed the external walls of the castle with its pillars and towers attached to it and the southern gate with the internal and external reinforcement as well as the protective courtyard in front of the gate that was used to deceive enemies with its western entrance. (Mustafa Marie, “Remains of a military fortress discovered in al-Buhayra”, Egypt Today, June 10, 2019. Voir également Samar al-Naggâr, « Découverte à al-Buhayra de deux unités attachées à une forteresse militaire datant de Ramsès II », al-Masrî al-Yawm, 10 juin ; Ahmad Mansûr, « Mise au jour à al-Buhayra de vestiges d’une forteresse militaire datant de Ramsès II », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 10 juin ; ‘Alâ’ alMinyâwî, « Découverte de silos à grains dans une forteresse de Ramsès II », Sada al-Balad, 10 juin ; Islâm ‘Abd al-Ma‘bûd, « Découverte de vestiges de deux unités attachées à une forteresse militaire à al-Buhayra », al-Shurûq, 10 juin). - - BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Accompagné d’une délégation officielle, le représentant de la Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) pour l’Europe et le Moyen-Orient, Takema SAKAMOTO, a visité le site de la deuxième barque de Chéops. Il a été accueilli par le superviseur archéologique du projet, Mamdûh Taha, et le directeur de la restauration, ‘Îsa Zaydân. SAKAMOTO a pris connaissance des opérations d’extraction des pièces en bois, de leur acheminement vers les laboratoires, de leur restauration et de leur documentation. SAKAMOTO a exprimé sa satisfaction du travail accompli et a adressé ses félicitations aux équipes. Soulignant que sur les 1 260 fragments de la barque, près de 1 060 ont été extraits. 1 030 fragments ont déjà été restaurés et 854 transportés au Grand Musée Égyptien. (‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Le représentant de la JICA inspecte la deuxième barque de Chéops », Sada al-Balad, 10 juin 2019. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « Le représentant de la JICA visite la deuxième barque de Chéops », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 10 juin ; Muhammad ‘Âtif, « Le représentant de la JICA inspecte le projet de la deuxième barque de Chéops », Masrâwî, 10 juin) - - Tantâ Museum has been closed for 18 years. The museum is currently being renovated and developed by the Projects Sector at the Ministry of Antiquities. Head of the sector Wa‘d Abû al-‘Ilâ confirmed that the development, restoration and strengthening the pillars of Tantâ Museum is running on schedule due to the keenness of 219 Juin 2019 the Projects Sector to inaugurate the museum as soon as possible. Mercredi 12 juin 2019 Abû al-‘Ilâ further stated that 90 percent of the engineering work has been completed, adding that all other preparations will be done in two weeks after Eid al-Fitr holidays. Braille card system — for the blind — to be officially used in Egyptian Museum Halls Tantâ Museum includes 8579 artifacts from various eras including the Pharaonic, Roman and Greek eras. It is the only preserved archaeological museum in al-Gharbiyya. The Display Scenario Committee changed the museums former display in order to present the numerous artifacts in a modern eye-catching manner. The museum displaying scenario will be divided into two sections; the first section includes the archaeological discoveries of the excavations that took place in al-Gharbiyya Governorate, and the second section includes pieces that depict daily life, resurrection and immortality. The museum consists of five floors, the first floor is dedicated to distinguished services, the second and third floors will be used to display various artifacts. The fourth floor is reserved for the administrative offices of the museum staff, while the fifth floor has lecture and conference halls. (Mustafa Marie, “90% of Tantâ Museum renovation works completed”, Egypt Today, June 10, 2019. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « Achèvement de 90 % des travaux architecturaux du musée de Tantâ », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 10 juin ; ‘Umar al-Mahdî, « Avancement des travaux des musées de Kafr al-Shaykh et de Tantâ », al-Ahrâm, 26 juin). - - BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 According to local news outlet Sada alBalad, Egypt’s beloved Gayer Anderson Museum has announced the completion of museum cards and labels in Braille for its halls. The labels and cards will be exhibited on June 18, in an event which will be attended by organizations and delegations for the visually impaired and under the supervision of the Department of Education for people with special needs. News of the braille cards implementation was confirmed to Egyptian Streets through an official working in the museum. It is however unclear which format the cards will be taking: simple written labels or more detailed exhibition panel which could also take on the form of various objects which the visually impaired visitor can experience through touch. Example of a tactile mean to ‘see’ a painting in the Ashmolean. Source: University of Oxford The Gayer Anderson museum is not the first institution to focus its efforts on the involvement of visually impaired individuals in Egypt’s arts, culture and scientific fields. The Bibliotheca Alexandrina operates the Taha Hussein Library for the Blind as well; the latter is a specialized library for blind and visually impaired citizens and residents. 220 Juin 2019 The library, which was named after famous blind Egyptian writer Taha Hussein, was officially opened on 16 October 2002 to provide services and programs. It houses a collection of books and corpuses in braille in order to meet the needs of students and researchers. Among its services, it also organizes training courses on how to read and write the code. In Egypt, the Wold Health Organization (WHO) estimates that approximately 1 million people are blind and 3 million are visually impaired. Particularly popular among students of Islamic art and history, the Gayer Anderson museum is located near Ibn Tûlûn Mosque in Sayyida Zaynab. It is often known to as the Gayer Anderson museum or Bayt al-Kritliyya (House of the Cretan woman). It is composed of two adjoining houses which were erected in 1540 and 1631 during the Ottoman period. Various families lived in the houses, namely John GAYER ANDERSON, a British major and army doctor who resided in the house from 1935 to 1942 after receiving special permission from the Egyptian government while he was on assignment in Egypt. Through his travels in the region, ANDERSON collected artwork, carpets, antiquities and curious furniture which he kept in the houses. Although ANDERSON left Egypt in 1942, his house remained popular among visitors who were keen on seeing his collections, so the houses eventually became a museum. (“Gayer Anderson Museum to Implement Braille Label Cards”, Egyptian Streets, June 12, 2019. Voir également MENA, « Mise en place des cartels et légendes en braille dans le musée GAYER-ANDERSON », alShurûq, 16 juin ; ‘Umar al-Mahdî, « Mise en place des cartels et légendes en braille dans le musée GAYER-ANDERSON », al-Ahrâm, 16 juin ; Mustafa Marie, “Braille card system to be officially used in Egyptian Museums”, Egypt Today, June 16 ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Des aveugles lisent l’histoire de GAYER-ANDERSON en braille », Sada al-Balad, 19 juin). - - BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Le National Geographic Museum de Washington DC rend hommage aux femmes égyptiennes à travers l’exposition "Queens of Egypt". Cette exposition, qui dure jusqu’au 2 septembre, permet de plonger dans l’univers des femmes égyptiennes, qui ont fait partie de l’histoire de l’Égypte antique. Ce sont surtout les reines du Nouvel Empire. 300 pièces antiques permettent de retracer le rôle caché de sept reines égyptiennes, dont l’influence a perduré après leur vie et pendant plusieurs décennies. À l’exemple d’Ahmès-Néfertary, Hatchepsout, Néfertiti et d’autres. Le visiteur de cette exposition peut notamment admirer des sculptures monumentales, telles que des statues ou des bustes et des bijoux scintillants des sarcophages impressionnants. Grâce à des images en 3D projetées sur grand écran, il peut aussi plonger dans l’atmosphère de l’une des tombes les mieux préservées de la vallée des Reines, celle de Néfertary. L’exposition invite aussi à découvrir le quotidien de cellesci à travers de multiples objets. Cette collection impressionnante provient essentiellement du Museo Egizio di Torino , en Italie, qui possède une des plus grandes collections égyptiennes. D’autres objets exposés viennent à la fois du Musée de la Pointe-à-Callière, des beaux-arts à Montréal, du Rijksmuseum van Oudheden à Leiden, des musées royaux d’Art et d’Histoire (MRAH) à Bruxelles. Les mères des pharaons, comme leurs grandes épouses royales, avaient un rôle actif dans la gestion du Royaume : beaucoup ont gouverné ou étaient de précieuses conseillères pour les pharaons. Le musée en a 221 Juin 2019 choisi quelques-unes, à commencer par Ahmès-Néfertary, surnommée « La Divine ». Elle fut la première reine de la XVIIIe dynastie. Elle était puissante et influente. Après sa mort, elle et son fils ont été divinisés à Dayr alMadîna, où elle a été vénérée comme déesse de la résurrection. ã Rebecca HALE/National Geographic ã Rebecca HALE/National Geographic « Il y avait beaucoup de reines d’Égypte, certaines avec des noms très connus comme Néfertiti et Cléopâtre. Et pourtant, on en savait peu sur elles, jusqu’à maintenant », explique Kathryn KEANE, directrice du musée, ajoutant que le National Geographic Society soutient depuis longtemps des recherches archéologiques ainsi que des études sur différents sites en Égypte et que cette exposition sera une occasion aux visiteurs de rencontrer quelques égyptologues et experts opérant sur des chantiers égyptiens. « Malgré des décennies de découvertes extraordinaires en Égypte, pas un seul tombeau intact d’une femme royale n’a jamais été trouvé. Nous espérons que cette exposition incitera les gens à étudier pour apprendre davantage sur cette histoire des reines égyptiennes », souligne-t-elle. Le visiteur de l’exposition n’oubliera jamais le nom de Néfertary « La Bien-aimée » présentée dans une salle spéciale avec des images en 3D. Néfertary était la première reine de Ramsès II et la plus aimée. Sa tombe a été découverte en 1904, presque vide, ne contenant que quelques pièces exposées au musée, comme une paire de sandales et quelques poteries et statuettes ouchebti. Plusieurs sarcophages égyptiens, et leur contenu, sont inclus dans l’exposition. BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 C’est l’une des plus grandes et des plus somptueuses tombes de la vallée des Reines, de par ses peintures murales à découvrir en 3D. Cette visite virtuelle est une occasion à ne pas rater. Un buste de la « Belle » Néfertiti trône parmi des stèles, dans une des salles du musée américain. Néfertiti, quant à elle, a joué un rôle important dans les domaines religieux et politiques et était considérée comme l’égale du roi. Une des plus belles histoires racontées lors de cette exposition est celle de Hatchepsout qui a régné après la mort de son mari, Thoutmosis II, et est devenue Ve pharaon de la XVIIIe dynastie, gouvernant pendant 22 ans. Elle est considérée comme l’un des pharaons les plus puissants d’Égypte. Dans cette rencontre des reines, il ne manque pas non plus Tiye, la diplomate, ainsi que l’histoire fascinante de la dernière reine égyptienne la plus emblématique, Cléopâtre VII. Cette exposition exceptionnelle des reines se termine par le buste fabuleux de celle-ci, prêté par le Museo Egizio, et qui n’a jamais été vu auparavant aux États-Unis. Trois cobras sont assis sur sa tête, symbolisant les trois pays qu’elle voulait gouverner : l’Égypte, la Syrie et l’Empire romain. "Queens of Egypt" maintient un équilibre délicat entre la grande histoire et celle du quotidien de ces femmes. L’un des étalages de pots contient des parfums de style égyptien ancien, considéré comme le préféré de Cléopâtre. Les visiteurs peuvent ouvrir le couvercle et apprécier cette senteur. Si les reines, les mères ou les épouses étaient des figures puissantes à l’époque des pharaons, les déesses étaient aussi nombreuses et vénérées comme Isis, Sekhmet, Hathor, Bastet, Maât, entre autres. Dans l’exposition, un couloir est 222 Juin 2019 bordé de quatre grandes statues en granit de Sekhmet, la déesse de la guerre au visage de lionne qui représentait le pouvoir des rayons du soleil, donnant la vie, mais pouvant aussi brûler et tuer. - - Jeudi 13 juin 2019 ã Rebecca HALE/National Geographic D’autres galeries du National Geographic Museum révèlent ce qu’était la vie dans un harem de pharaon. Cela permet au visiteur d’entrer dans la vie quotidienne de ces reines et ces princesses, femmes et sœurs du pharaon. C’est dans ces galeries que l’on découvre la façon dont les femmes disposaient de toutes sortes de produits pour prendre soin d’elles : crèmes, poudre, khôl, peignes pour les cheveux, parfums et bijoux somptueux. Le harem royal n’était pas seulement un lieu de festivités et de plaisirs. Il comprenait une école pour les enfants, et on y menait de multiples activités comme la fabrication de produits artisanaux. Dans ces salles consacrées à la vie éternelle, l’exposition met un coup de projecteur sur Dayr al-Madîna, ce village qui abritait les artisans qui ont construit et embelli les tombeaux royaux. Selon les responsables du musée, aucune tournée de l’Égypte ancienne ne serait complète sans les momies. Juste avant de faire l’adieu à Cléopâtre et aux reines égyptiennes, une grande chambre est à visiter, contenant 12 sarcophages et leurs momies. Par une telle exposition, déjà tenue en Europe et au Canada, National Geographic s’adresse aux citoyens américains, essayant de respecter son slogan : « Nous ne pouvons pas vous apporter le Sphinx, mais nous pouvons vous amener au Sphinx ». (Nasma Réda, « Ces reines influentes », Al-Ahram Hebdo du 12 juin 2019). BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 The Egyptian ministries of antiquities and foreign affairs called on Christie’s auctioneers to halt the sale of a quartzite head thought to be of the ancient Egyptian Pharaoh Tutankhamun in London this week, with the ministries also calling upon the UN cultural agency UNESCO to intervene. The auction of the head is scheduled to take place at Christie’s in London on 4 July and to make more than £4 million. Sha‘bân ‘Abd al-Gawwâd, supervisor of the Antiquities Repatriation Department at the Ministry of Antiquities, told Al-Ahram Weekly that the ministry had asked the auctioneers to provide documents showing proof of the object’s ownership. The Egyptian Embassy in London has called on Christie’s and the British Ministry of Foreign Affairs to stop the sale of the head and to return it to its homeland along with other ancient Egyptian objects to be auctioned on 3 July. Christie’s says the head is to be auctioned from the private Resandro collection in July, in a sale that includes marble heads dating from ancient Rome, a painted wooden Egyptian coffin, and an Egyptian bronze statue of a cat. ‘Abd al-Gawwâd said that Egypt always fights against the sale of looted and illegally 223 Juin 2019 smuggled antiquities and that his department monitors catalogues and auctioneers abroad. “If it is proven that any piece has been illegally smuggled abroad, all legal procedures are taken with Interpol and in coordination with the Egyptian Foreign Ministry in order to stop its sale and ensure its return,” ‘Abd al-Gawwâd said. “We will not tolerate or allow anyone to sell Egyptian artefacts illegally,” he added. “We will take all the required procedures to stop this auction immediately and ask for the return of all the pieces,” said Mustafa Wazîrî, secretary-general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities (SCA) in Cairo. Former minister of antiquities Zâhî Hawwâs said the head could have come from the Karnak Temple in Luxor and left Egypt illegally during the 1960s. “I don’t think Christie’s have the papers to show that it left Egypt legally. It’s impossible,” he said. “Christie’s has no evidence to prove that, and therefore it should be returned to Egypt.” The UK Independent newspaper quoted a spokesperson for Christie’s defending the sale by saying that “ancient objects by their nature cannot be traced over millennia. It is hugely important to establish recent ownership and the legal right to sell, which we have clearly done. We would not offer for sale any object where there was concern over ownership or export.” “The work has been widely exhibited and published, and we have alerted the Egyptian embassy so they are aware of the sale. There is a long-standing and legitimate market for works of art of the ancient world, in which Christie’s has participated for generations. Christie’s strictly adheres to bilateral treaties and international laws with respect to cultural property and patrimony,” he said. According to the Christie’s listing, the head is 28.5cm tall, carved in brown quartzite, and depicts the boy king in the shape of the god Amun. BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Christie’s said the collection from which the head comes was acquired from Heinz HERZER in Munich in 1985. Prior to this, the head was owned by the Austrian Joseph MESSINA, who acquired it in 1973-74 from Wilhelm von Thurn und Taxis, who reputedly had it in his collection by the 1960s. The head has been exhibited twice, once in Germany in 1992 and 1993 and then in Spain in 2002. Egypt’s National Committee for the Repatriation of Antiquities held an urgent meeting at the Ministry of Antiquities to discuss the subject. Until the Weekly went to print, the measures adopted to return the head thought to be of king Tutankhamun and the 31 other Egyptian objects put up for sale were yet unrevealed. The national committee, formed in 2008 to repatriate stolen and smuggled antiquities, is headed by the minister of antiquities and comprises members from the ministries of foreign affairs, justice, international cooperation as well as the prosecutor-general and representatives from the concerned security and supervisory bodies. (Nevine ElAref, “Stopping the sale of Tutankhamun”, AlAhram Weekly, June 13, 2019. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « Le département des antiquités restituées examine avec le ministère des Affaires étrangères le dossier de la vente aux enchères à Londres d’une tête de Toutankhamon », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 5 juin ; “Tutankhamun Head to be Auctioned by Christie’s, Sparks Outrage”, Egyptian Streets, June 5; Angy Essam, “Wazîrî: We will stop this auction, get back Tutankhamen bust”, Egypt Today, June 11 ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie saisit le Procureur général pour stopper la vente de 32 pièces antiques chez Christie’s », Sada al-Balad, 13 juin ; « Le Parquet britannique écarte la possibilité d’intervenir dans la vente d’une pièce de Toutankhamon », al-Ahrâm, 16 juin ; Zâhî Hawwâs, « Toutankhamon à vendre », alMasrî al-Yawm, 18 juin). - - 224 Juin 2019 When Belgian entrepreneur and industrialist Edouard Louis Joseph, Baron EMPAIN, started the construction of the Heliopolis suburb 10km northwest of Cairo from 1905 onwards, he had the support of Boghos NUBAR, the son of Egyptian prime minister NUBAR Pasha. Once finished, it was a luxurious and leisured suburb with elegant villas with wide terraces, apartment buildings and tenement blocks with balconies, hotels and facilities, as well as recreational amenities including a golf course, a racetrack and a large park. Heliopolis also offered a variety of leasing and purchase options, making it a practical choice for Cairo’s well-heeled society at the time. This upscale character has remained the area’s hallmark, and for over a century it has been a prime location in Cairo. EMPAIN also built his own magnificent palace in the Heliopolis Avenue of Palaces, now al-‘Urûba Street, in an Indian architectural style inspired by the temples of Angkor Wat in Cambodia and the Hindu temples of Orissa in India. Its external design incorporated reproductions of a variety of human figures, statues of Indian dancers, elephants, snakes, Buddhas, Shivas and Krishnas. The palace consists of two floors and a small extension near the roof. Windows studded with Belgian glass were specially created so as never to lose sight of the sun. However, as negligence later took its toll, the palace became the residence of bats, which suited its more Gothic aspect. The gilded ceilings, the decorations, and the famed Belgian mirrors that once graced the walls were masked by hundreds of bats and their droppings. In 2017, a long-awaited restoration project began to return the palace to its original look, and it is now scheduled to reopen in October this year. Several ideas have been suggested to rehabilitate the palace upon the completion of its restoration. Some have suggested transforming it into a boutique hotel, while BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 others want to see it turned into a cultural centre or library. A third group wants it to be a multi-functional edifice that will combine a library and cultural centre with musical and theatre performances. “The Ministry of Antiquities has another idea that could be implemented in collaboration with the Belgium Embassy in Egypt, the Centre for the Documentation of Cultural and Natural Heritage (CULTNAT), and the two NGOs of the Heliopolis Heritage Foundation and the Heliopolis Association,” Nevine Nizâr, assistant to the minister of antiquities for museums, told Al-Ahram Weekly. She said that there were plans to organise an exhibition relating to the history of Heliopolis and its development over time. The exhibition would put on show a collection of photographs, archival documents, maps, drawings and letters in relation to the history and construction of the Masr al-Gadîda suburb that includes Heliopolis and Matariyya. In addition, the exhibition would display objects reflecting the life styles of the suburb’s inhabitants during the earlier period, such as chairs, lamps, tables or telephones. Photographs showing the different phases of the palace restoration project would also be on show, along with panels on the Hindu architectural style and Baron EMPAIN and his family. The 1910 Heliopolis tramline, now replaced by the modern metro line, will also be a part of the exhibition. A cultural panoramic show portraying the history of Heliopolis through nine interactives 180-degree panorama screens could be provided by CULTNAT, along with augmented reality screens. Other screens showing documentaries on the history of the suburb and its construction would also be provided. Cultural activities for children to raise their awareness of the country’s heritage have also been suggested. Muhammad ‘Abd al-‘Azîz, supervisor of Historic Cairo Rehabilitation Project, told the 225 Juin 2019 Weekly that the restoration project cost LE100 million as a whole. 80 per cent of the project was complete, he said, and the palace would be officially inaugurated in October. Heliopolis is built in a style synthesising elements from Islamic, European, Persian and Moorish architecture. Near the Baron’s Palace there are still some wealthy residences. Facing the palace is the Arabesque palace of Boghos NUBAR Pasha, now a military building, and just opposite stands a presidential guest-house that was the former residence of sultan Husayn Kâmil who reigned over Egypt between 1914 and 1917. The presidential palace behind the Heliopolis Club was established as the Grand Heliopolis Palace Hotel in 1910 by EMPAIN’s company. Egypt successfully restored a lot of archaeological artifacts and monuments during the past ten years, despite the existence of counter-campaigns aimed at destroying these efforts. The Heliopolis Commonwealth Cemetery is located on Nabîl al-Waqqâd Street, and it contains the Port Tawfîq Memorial to the 4,000 soldiers of the British Indian Army who fell in World War I. The Catholic Basilica on al-Ahrâm Street is another famous landmark in Heliopolis, and it is the burial place of Baron EMPAIN. There are also 16 major mosques and Islamic charities located in Heliopolis, including the Imam Hasan and ‘Umar bin ‘Abd al-‘Azîz mosques. Gîza Street is one of the many streets in the area that still look like pieces of Europe, with small gardens, townhouses, and semidetached buildings no higher than three storeys. (Nevine El-Aref, “Heliopolis on show”, Al-Ahram Weekly, June 13, 2019). - - Vendredi 14 juin 2019 Head of the Central Department of Restoration and Conservation of Antiquities Gharîb Sunbul has stated that Egypt’s antiquities and monuments are in safe hands. BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 The widespread false image - Facebook Sunbul clarified during a phone call on DMC channel that the image spread on social media showing the face of the statue of Ramses III being restored using black cement is fake, pointing out that the statue is undergoing a complete scientific restoration in accordance with international conventions on maintenance. (Mustafa Marie, “Sunbul denies allegation of using black cement to restore Ramses III”, Egypt Today, June 14, 2019. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « Une photo récente de la statue de Karnak prétendument restaurée avec du ciment », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 12 juin). - - Egypt has demanded the restoration of 32 artifacts, including the head of the golden pharaoh Tutankhamen from London. 226 Juin 2019 According to a statement made by the Egyptian Ministry of Antiquities, the Standing Committee for Antiquities of Egypt expressed "great objection to the auction halls (Christie’s) in the British capital, London, for putting artifacts belonging to the Egyptian civilization for sale." The statement mentioned that Christie’s Auction Hall in London is planning to display 32 Egyptian artifacts for sale, including the head of a stone statue attributed to King Tutankhamen at a public auction scheduled for July 3 and 4. The Ministry of Antiquities stressed "the need to stop the sale and immediately return all pieces that were illegally smuggled out of Egypt”. Samedi 15 juin 2019 Egyptian Prime Minister Dr. Mustafa Madbûlî inspected the latest developments in the construction of the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) and the surrounding area. Madbûlî was accompanied by Dr. Khâlid al‘Inânî, Minister of Antiquities and Major General ‘Âtif Muftâh, General Supervisor of the GEM. During the visit, the Egyptian Prime Minister inspected the proposed site for the transfer of the Khufu boats, and instructed that the transfer of experts and specialists should be studied, and that a high-level team in engineering and restoration affairs should do so. The Minister of Antiquities explained that the project of the GEM includes the main museum building, the main square, the entrance of the main visitors, the Ramses hall, the conference building, the pyramids wall, the recreational park, the Nile Valley, the children’s park, Khufu, Pyramids Restaurant, and Masala. This is the second official address as the Egyptian Foreign Ministry called on London on June 10 to stop the sale of the head of the golden pharaoh Tutankhamen’s statue and asked for documents proving the ownership of the antiquities. (Mustafa Marie, “Egypt renews its demand to restore 32 artifacts from London”, Egypt Today, June 14, 2019. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « Le Comité permanent proteste contre la vente aux enchères d’une pièce de Toutankhamon », alYawm al-Sâbi‘, 12 juin ; MENA, « L’Union européenne soutient l’Égypte dans ses efforts pour récupérer ses antiquités volées », alShurûq, 17 juin ; ‘Âdil Munîr, « Intensification des efforts pour stopper la vente des antiquités égyptiennes à l’étranger », Watanî, 17 juin). - - BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 al-‘Inânî added that the total area of the project is 167 thousand square meters, and the implementation rate is 91.5%. The structural structure has been completed by 100% and the surrounding roads are over 90%. And the entrance hall where the statue of King Ramses II is located is 92%, the great staircase is completed by 98% and the main display sectors are completed by 85%. The first field of the obelisk is standing in front of the facade of the GEM. Major General Muftâh pointed out that the paving of the roads surrounding the museum was completed from the east and west, and the northern and southern roads were implemented by 90%. The design works for the construction of the Fayyûm Road Tunnel with a length of 1200 m were completed in two directions, consisting of 6 traffic lanes in each direction. In addition to the tunnel for the protection of facilities and drilling has been started, and the evacuation of the 227 Juin 2019 presence located south of Fayyûm road is underway. new site in Cairo, the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization. He said: “There are procedures to develop other ways that serve the great museum, the most important of which are the beginning of the al-Mansûriyya road with the ring road, the roads of Fayyûm, Haram, Faysal, and the road ahead of the officers’ homes”. The initial restructuring of the Egyptian Museum will include the redisplay of several galleries near the entrance and the relocation of the Tanis Royal Tombs to the space vacated by the Tutankhamun collection. General Muftâh, the general supervisor of the project of the Egyptian Museum and the surrounding area, reviewed the executive position of the museum’s monuments. He pointed out that the total number of relics that have been transferred to date reached 47952 archaeological artifacts and that the total restoration and maintenance of archaeological artifacts. Madbûlî stressed that efforts should be exerted to speed up the completion of this historical building, and that all works should be meticulously executed so that the great museum will be a message to the whole world about the new Egypt, which continues to make a present and a better future for its people. (“Prime Minister inspects GEM latest developments”, Egypt Today, June 15, 2019. Voir également Islâm ‘Abd al-Ma‘bûd, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie dresse un état des lieux des réalisations au GEM », al-Shurûq, 11 juin ; ‘Isâm al-Dîn Râdî, « Achèvement du gros œuvre du GEM », al-Ahrâm, 16 juin). - - Lundi 17 juin 2019 Egypt on Sunday launched a revamp of the Egyptian Museum, promising to preserve and enhance the storied site even as it loses its most famous collection. Ivan SURKOS, Head of Eurpean Union Delegation to Egypt, and Sahar Nasr, Egypt’s Minister of Investment and International Cooperation, sign an agreement for a European grant to renovate the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, Egypt June 16, 2019. (Photo: Reuters) Financed by 3.1 million euros of EU funding and backed by a consortium of five European museums including the British Museum and the Louvre, the project will also develop a long-term vision for the museum and, officials hope, allow it to win a listing as a UNESCO world heritage site. Egyptian Antiquities Minister Khâlid al‘Inânî repeated a promise that new museums would not pose a threat, and that the Egyptian Museum, which houses more than 150,000 objects, should get "all the support and attention it deserves". "The time has come to shed a new light on the museum’s rich collection, upgrade its physical structure and improve its research and programming activities to reach the highest international standards," he told a launch event in the museum’s garden. Located in the heart of Cairo on Tahrîr Square, the Egyptian Museum has long been the foremost home for the country’s bounteous collection of antiquities. The apparently casual management and display of artefacts at the Egyptian Museum surprises some visitors. In 2014 employees damaged King Tutankhamun’s golden burial mask by gluing its dislodged beard back on. But it will soon lose some of the treasure from King Tutankhamun’s tomb to the Grand Egyptian Museum, due to open next year next to the Gîza pyramids, while a collection of royal mummies is being transferred to another But it charms many others with its oldfashioned feel. Some display cases date back to the mid-19th century when the collections were displayed elsewhere in Cairo, and there are signs have not been changed since the BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 228 Juin 2019 museum opened in 1902, museum director Sabâh ‘Abd al-Râziq said. For Egyptologists, the museum is the "mother" of Egyptian museums, said Friederike SEYFRIED, director of the Egyptian Museum of Berlin, which is also participating in the project. "Nothing can be compared with the Egyptian Museum at Tahrîr and this will never change," she said. "New-build museums will be beacons of modern achievements in museology but the Egyptian museum at Tahrîr reflects the history of our science." Tourism is a key sector in Egypt’s economy and a major source of foreign revenue. It has been gradually recovering from the political turmoil and security problems that followed the "Arab Spring" civil unrest of 2011. al-‘Inânî said he was aggrieved that Egypt had to confront the continued loss of antiquities through looting and smuggling. The government is currently battling to prevent the auction of an 18th Dynasty quartzite sculpture god Amen in the likeness of King Tutankhamun scheduled for next month at Christie’s in London. "I’m deeply saddened to see every now and then some Egyptian antiquities put on sale in the international market. We have succeeded in the ministry in the last few years in repatriating thousands of objects and will continue to do so," al-‘Inânî said. He appealed to foreign ambassadors and cultural attaches, international organisations, and UNESCO "to join efforts to stop the looting, selling and illicit trafficking of antiquities" (Reuters, “Cairo’s ‘mother of Egyptian museums’ set for revamp”, Ahram Online, June 17, 2019. Voir également Muhammad ‘Abd al-Mu‘tî, « Réaménagement du Musée égyptien de Tahrîr en coopération avec l’Union européenne », al-Ahrâm, 14 juin ; Walîd Magdî, « Les ministres de l’Investissement et de l’Archéologue et l’ambassadeur de l’Union européenne annoncent le lancement du projet de BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 réaménagement du Musée Égyptien », alMasrî al-Yawm, 17 juin ; Myriam ‘Âdlî, « Les ministres de l’Investissement, de la Coopération internationale et de l’Archéologue annoncent le lancement du projet de réaménagement du Musée Égyptien », Watanî, 17 juin ; Rânyâ Rabî‘, « Le gouvernement : Le réaménagement du Musée Égyptien n’est pas financé par le budget de l’État », al-Shurûq, 19 juin). - - Le Daily Express a annoncé, hier, une dernière découverte exceptionnelle. Des archéologues ont trouvé le cœur momifié d’un vizir de la XIIe dynastie, à proximité du temple funéraire d’Amenhotep II à al-Dayr al-Baharî. Ce cœur a été momifié d’une façon prodigieuse et déposé dans un vase canope, parmi les 56 autres vases exhumés à l’intérieur d’une tombe secrète. Tous ces vases contiennent les restes de momification du vizir : tissus, produits de conservation utilisés dans l’embaumement, traces de sang. Curieusement, le reste du corps de ce vizir manque à l’appel. (Nuha Muhammad, « Découverte du cœur d’un vizir pharaonique à proximité du temple funéraire d’Amenhotep II », al-Ahrâm, 17 juin 2019). - - The Ministry of Antiquities announced on June 16 at 6:30 p.m. the launch of the development works of the Egyptian Museum in Tahrîr. The declaration included signing a protocol of cooperation, with the aim of submitting it to the UNESCO, to put the Egyptian Museum on the World Heritage List. The development project, which will last for 3 years, is the first phase of a large project that includes major developments in the Egyptian Museum, with the alliance of five European museums: the Egyptian Museum in Turin, Italy; the Louvre Museum in France; the British Museum in England; the Berlin Museum in Germany; the Leiden Museum in Holland, and with the support of the European Union. 229 Juin 2019 The development plan includes the development of the museum entrance, and the development of the ground floor show halls. Also, wall paints will be changed and the lighting circuit will be developed. In addition, maintenance of displays — in terms of modernizing the paints and technically maintaining them — is part of the development plan, where at least 200 pieces will be displayed. The plan will also include the development of all museum aspects in terms of the museum display of artifacts. Furthermore, restoration of monuments, development of explanatory cards, insurance, lighting, floors and paints will be part of the development plan. The museum’s master plan, including the museum’s vision and future mission will also be developed. Management of the museum group, community communication, museum education, the development of the archives department, the library and the representation of the treasures of the royal tombs discovered in Tanis in al-Sharqiyya will also come as part of the massive development plan of the museum. (Mustafa Marie, “Massive development plan announced for Tahrîr’s Egyptian Museum”, Egypt Today, June 17, 2019. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « Le ministère de l’Investissement signe un protocole de coopération de 3,1 millions d’euros pour le réaménagement du Musée Égyptien », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 16 juin ; ‘Alâ’ alMinyâwî, « Projet de réaménagement du Musée Égyptien de Tahrîr », Sada al-Balad, 17 juin ; Ranâ Gawhar, « 3,1 millions d’euros pour le réaménagement du Musée Égyptien avec la collaboration de l’Union européenne », alAhrâm, 18 juin). - - L’archéologue en chef du musée national de la Civilisation égyptienne (NMEC), Sayyid Abû al-Fad, a annoncé l’élargissement du lac ‘Ayn al-Sîra, contigu au NMEC, afin de devenir une partie intégrante du musée. BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Dans le cadre du réaménagement du NMEC et de ses environs, le lac sera assaini et dépollué pour servir de lieu de promenade. Plusieurs restaurants ainsi qu’une zone d’activités y seront également aménagés. (Ahmad Mansûr, « Élargissement du lac ‘Ayn al-Sîra et création de restaurants », al-Yawm alSâbi‘, 17 juin 2019. Voir également Muhammad ‘Abd al-‘Âtî, « Madbûlî inspecte le NMEC et les travaux de réaménagement de Fustât et du lac ‘Ayn al-Sîra », al-Masrî alYawm, 16 juin ; Muhammad ‘Âtif, « Assainissement du lac ‘Ayn al-Sîra », Masrâwî, 17 juin ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Assainissement du lac ‘Ayn al-Sîra et sa transformation en lieu de promenade devant le NMEC », Sada al-Balad, 17 juin ; Mahmûd ‘Abd al-Bâqî, « Assainissement et élargissement du lac ‘Ayn al-Sîra », Vetogate, 21 juin). - - Mardi 18 juin 2019 Within a few months, Egyptian royal mummies and their sarcophagi will be transferred from the Egyptian Museum in Tahrîr to the National Museum of Egyptian Civilisation (NMEC) in Fustât. 230 Juin 2019 Minister of Antiquities Khâlid al-’Inânî and officials from a number of government bodies toured both museums to discuss the required procedures to ensure the transportation process is conducted in a way that is fitting of the unique and great Egyptian civilisation. Work is underway at the NMEC to ensure that the halls of the museum are ready to receive mummies and the sarcophagi. The display cases at the museum are currently being installed. The main display hall is set to be inaugurated and will host a collection of objects that relay the history of Egypt since the prehistoric period to the modern time. During the inspection tour today, a black granite statue of King Amenemhat III in the shape of a sphinx was unveiled to be the first artefact to be displayed in the main hall. NMEC outdoor overlooking ‘Ayn al-Sîra lake Accompanying the minister on the tour were representatives from the ministries of Defence, Interior and Tourism, as well as officials from Cairo governorate, security authorities and the Supreme Council of Antiquities. Two other objects showing a small statue of a sphinx discovered in Kom Ombo temple and a statue of King Tuthmosis III unearthed in Luxor were also unpacked to be put on display at NMEC’s temporary exhibition hall, which was inaugurated in 2017 by former UNESCO director-general Irina BOKOVA. al-’Inânî promised that the artefacts will be transported in “a majestic cavalcade.” Halls of the NMEC Tuthmosis III statue Sabâh ‘Abd al-Râziq, director-general of the Egyptian Museum in Tahrîr, told Ahram Online that 22 royal mummies and 17 royal sarcophagi from the 17th, 18th, 19th and 20th Dynasties will be transported to the NMEC, including 18 mummies of kings and four of queens. The mummies include those of kings Ramses II, Seti I, Seqnenre, Tuthmoses III, and queens Hatshepsut, Meritamun, the wife of King Amenhotep I, and Ahmose Nefertari, the wife of king Ahmose. BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 The hall displays objects relating to the history and development of Egyptian crafts over the ages. (Nevine El-Aref, “Royal Egyptian mummies, sarcophagi to be transferred to NMEC soon”, Ahram Online, June 18, 2019. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie étudie les modalités du transfert de 22 momies et de 17 sarcophages du Musée Égyptien vers le NMEC », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 13 juin ; ‘Alâ’ alMinyâwî, « Cortège impressionnant pour le transfert des momies royales du Musée Égyptien vers le NMEC », Sada al-Balad, 13 juin ; Fâdî Francis, « Le NMEC s’apprête à accueillir 22 momies et 17 sarcophages », alMasrî al-Yawm, 18 juin ; Ranâ Gawhar, « Le NMEC s’apprête à accueillir les momies et les sarcophages royaux », al-Ahrâm, 18 juin ; “Sîsî 231 Juin 2019 orders parade for royal mummies transferred to NMEC”, Egypt Today, June 23 ; Yâsmîn ‘Abd al-Râziq, « Le Caire s’apprête à transférer les momies royales du Musée Égyptien vers le NMEC », al-Shurûq, 24 juin). - - Dr Mahmûd Mabrûk, conseiller en muséologie auprès du ministère de l’Archéologie, a révélé que les nouvelles vitrines d’exposition commandées pour le musée national de la Civilisation égyptienne (NMEC) sont une pure merveille. Fabriquées en Allemagne, ces vitrines bénéficient d’un traitement antireflet. Elles sont taillées dans un verre extra clair et ultra transparent, sans aucun effet miroir. Enfin, le NMEC sera doté des moyens d’exposition les plus modernes, comparables, voire supérieurs à certains musées internationaux. (‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Mabrûk : Les vitrines d’exposition du NMEC sont fabriquées en Allemagne », Sada alBalad, 18 juin 2019). - all’ Italiana programme by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Italy is sharing its experience in this field in response to the Egyptian authorities’ wish to provide people with disabilities access to museums. The new special itinerary relies upon the expertise of the Museo Tattile Statale Omera, where the visually impaired can enjoy art along with the rest of the public. The new path at Tahrîr Museum is ready to be expanded and the whole initiative can be replicated in other museums. - Jeudi 20 juin 2019 The main aim of the initiative is to share Italian know-how in the field through a capacity building approach. The training course for the museum operators was held from 16 to 19 June. Egypt’s Minister of Antiquities Khâlid al‘Inânî, Minister of Tourism Rânyâ al-Mashât, Sports and Youth Minister Ashraf Subhî, and 16 foreign ambassadors embarked on a tour at the Egyptian Museum in Tahrîr to inaugurate a new path for visually impaired visitors. The path was developed by the Archaeological Centre of the Italian Cultural Institute in Cairo in collaboration with the Egyptian Museum and the Museo Tattile Statale Omera in Ancona as part of the Vivere BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 The itinerary includes 12 masterpieces of Egyptian art from throughout ancient Egypt. Every object along the path is made of hard Egyptian stone (such as granite and greywacke) with labels in Braille and electronic audio devices. The special itinerary includes the Narmer Palette, the triad of king Menkaure, and the Sphinx of King Amenemhat III. (Nevine ElAref, “Egyptian Museum in Tahrîr inaugurates new path for the visually impaired”, Ahram Online, June 20, 2019. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « Nouveau tracé dédié à la visite des non-voyants au Musée Égyptien », al-Yawm al232 Juin 2019 Sâbi‘, 19 juin ; “For the 1st time a path for visually impaired in Egyptian Museum”, Egypt Today, June 21 ; Sanâ’ Fârûq, « Inauguration du tracé dédié à la visite des non-voyants au Musée Égyptien », Watanî, 21 juin). - - Egyptian Minister of Antiquities Khâlid al‘Inânî visited an exhibition titled ‘The First Movers’ at the Bazaar of the Egyptian Museum in Tahrîr, which is organised within the framework of the Egyptian-Danish Dialogue Initiative in collaborate with the Egyptian Museum. visible in some of the furniture from the “golden age” of Danish furniture design. In this exhibition, you can see the inspiration from the Egyptian furniture makers in pieces by Danish architects Finn JUHL, Bernt PETERSEN, Ole WANSCHER and Ole GJERLØVKNUDSE. (Nevine El-Aref, “‘First Movers’: Modern Danish furniture with an ancient Egyptian twist”, Ahram Online, June 20, 2019. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « Le Musée Égyptien expose 42 répliques archéologiques de meubles danois », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 20 juin). - - Vendredi 21 juin 2019 The exhibition includes 42 replicas of ancient Egyptian furniture, which have inspired many Danish furniture designers and architects throughout the years. The exhibition put on display a table, a four-legged chair, a daybed, a stool and many more pieces. The replicas of Egyptian furniture were made by Danish cabinetmaker and architect Dan SVARTH, who has made more than 100 models of ancient furniture in 1.5 scale. In this exhibition, you will see 35 of them together with full scale modern Danish furniture. “In the exhibition, we pay tribute to these first developers of furniture and their skills in making all these types of furniture,” SVARTH said. SVARTH started working on these models in 1985, when he was an associate professor of the furniture department at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts, School of Architecture. As part of his research programme, SVARTH studied the techniques of ancient Egyptian furniture makers. Modern Danish furniture architects and designers looked at the Egyptian furniture to find inspiration, and this inspiration is clearly BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Le Musée Égyptien de Tahrîr a célébré la Journée de l’enfant africain, en présence des enfants des communautés africaines installées en Égypte. La directrice générale du musée, Sabâh ‘Abd al-Râziq, a accompagné les enfants à travers les salles du musée à la découverte des pièces reflétant les artisanats africains : vannerie, verrerie, métaux et bois. À cela s’ajoutent un atelier pour apprendre aux enfants à écrire leur nom en hiéroglyphes et un jeu de construction avec des légos. (Ahmad Mansûr, « Le Musée Égyptien de Tahrîr a célébré la Journée de l’enfant africain », alYawm al-Sâbi‘, 21 juin 2019. Voir également ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Les enfants africains à l’honneur au Musée Égyptien », Sada al-Balad, 20 juin). - 233 Juin 2019 Samedi 22 juin 2019 the most important of which were Tutankhamun’s sunshade, a statue of king Amenemhat III and a collection of artefacts from the reign of Alexander the Great and both Kings Ptolemy I and II. He said that the sunshade is the last piece to be transported within the framework of an Egyptian-Japanese project to transport and restore 72 objects from the Egyptian museum in Tahrîr to the GEM with the support of JICA. Could Tutankhamun’s chariot have come equipped with its own sunshade? During studies carried out on Tutankhamun’s sunshade before its transportation to the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) along with 155 other artefacts, a Japanese scholar, Nozomu KAWAI, professor of Egyptology at Kanazawa University in Japan revealed a new hypothesis. He suggested that the sunshade of Tutankhamun was a part of the boy king’s chariot, to protect him from sun’s heat while hunting or playing sports. The examination and X-rays carried out on both the chariot and the sunshade show that the chariot has signs and remains like those used in fixing sunshades, a suggestion that indicates that the sunshade is part of the chariot. Further studies will be carried out to find out more. All the objects were restored before packing in order to strengthen the weak parts as well as using a special kind of packing free of alcohol and materials that absorb humidity. The objects are now at the wood lab in the GEM for more restoration before display within the Tutankhamun collection when the museum opens in 2020. (Nevine El-Aref, “Tutankhamun’s sunshade may have been attached to his chariot, scholar theorises”, Ahram Online, June 22, 2019. Voir également Ahmad Mansûr, « Le GEM réceptionne 155 pièces archéologiques dont le parasol de Toutankhamon », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 21 juin ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Le GEM réceptionne 155 pièces archéologiques », Sada al-Balad, 21 juin ; ‘Umar al-Mahdî, « Le GEM réceptionne 155 pièces archéologiques », al-Ahrâm, 21 juin ; Mustafa Marie, “Tutankhamen’s canopy restored and transferred to GEM”, Egypt Today, June 24). - - Dimanche 23 juin 2019 Abûqîr sunken cities ‘Îsa Zaydân, director-general of the first aid restoration department and transportation at the GEM, told Ahram Online that the GEM received a collection of 155 objects, among BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 President of Alexandria University ‘Isâm alKurdî congratulated ‘Imâd Khalîl, professor of Marine Archaeology at the Faculty of Arts, on June 22 for winning the membership of the 234 Juin 2019 UNESCO Scientific Committee on Underwater Cultural Heritage. Khalîl was nominated for the membership by the National Committee for UNESCO at the Ministry of Higher Education. The Egyptian Embassy in Paris represented by the Permanent Delegation of Egypt to UNESCO exerted great diplomatic efforts to support Egypt’s candidate during the seventh edition of the Meeting of the States Parties to the UNESCO Convention 2001 to protect underwater cultural heritage, which was held at the headquarters of the organization in Paris on June 20-21, 2019. This is the first time an Egyptian expert has joined the ICRC, where the Scientific Committee consists of 14 experts from around the globe in the field of underwater cultural heritage. It is the first scientific reference to the UNESCO Charter for the Protection of Underwater Cultural Heritage, where the committee provides expertise and scientific advice to Member States, which are 61 countries including Egypt. During this session, six members were selected from 12 candidates representing 12 countries. (Mustafa Marie, “For the 1st time: Egypt a member in UNESCO scientific committee”, Egypt Today, June 23, 2019). - appartenant à une momie probablement d’époque ptolémaïque. L’Agence du département de la Sécurité intérieure procèdera prochainement à la restitution de ces pièces antiques à leur pays d’origine. (Basant Gamîl, « Le CBP saisit des échantillons de lin appartenant à une momie », al-Yawm alSâbi‘, 27 juin 2019). - - Le président du département des antiquités islamiques et coptes, Gamâl Mustafa, a annoncé la mise en place d’un projet de restauration et d’installation d’un centre pour les visiteurs à al-Bâgawât dans la Nouvelle-Vallée. Des travaux de fouilles sont en cours dans cette zone à laquelle le ministère de l’Archéologie attache une importance toute particulière. La ville de Balât fait l’objet d’un projet de restauration d’un montant de 13 millions L.E. Tous les entrepôts muséologiques du gouvernorat sont en cours d’inventaire et de documentation. Un grand nombre de pièces archéologiques seront transférées vers la ville d’al-Khârga. (‘Alâ’ alMinyâwî, « 13 millions L.E. pour restaurer la ville de Balât », Sada al-Balad, 27 juin 2019). - - Vendredi 28 juin 2019 - Jeudi 27 juin 2019 Source: Ministry of Antiquities Le Customs and Border Protection (CBP) a intercepté, le 25 mai, des bandelettes en lin appartenant à une momie égyptienne, au cours de leur exportation illicite à travers les frontières du Michigan. En effet, la police aux frontières est parvenue à saisir cinq pots contenant des échantillons de textile BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Minister of Antiquities Khâlid al-‘Inânî, members of parliament, Egyptian and international media have embarked on a trip on Friday to Fayyûm Governorate to inaugurate al-Lâhûn pyramid of King Senusert II for visitors after the completion of its conservation. The ceremony also comes with the announcement of a new discovery at the 235 Juin 2019 northern corner of the pyramid and the inauguration of Khuwând Aslabây Mosque. The pyramid of al-Lâhûn is made of mud brick. It had a length of 106 m, a slope of 42 35 and a height of 48.6 m. The structure of the pyramid is supported with a natural rocky core that was cut to accept a pyramid top, large limestone cross walls which provided support for the brick sections, after being cased in limestone. The events were attended by MajorGeneral ‘Isâm Sa‘d Governor of Fayyûm, General Secretary of the Supreme Council of Antiquities Mustafa Wazîrî, along with members of parliament and top officials al-‘Inânî told attendees that he kept his promise to Fayyûm inhabitants as both alLâhûn pyramid and Khuwând Aslabây Mosque were restored and inaugurated for the first time. He called people to protect and preserve the mosque and the pyramid and not to use them inappropriately. “The restoration of the mosque has revealed the beauty of the minbar and mihrâb and the inhabitants should preserve it not only because it is a religious edifice, but a part of Egyptian heritage as well,” al-‘Inânî pointed out. Source: Ministry of Antiquities Excavation works carried out on the southern side of al-Lâhûn pyramid by an Egyptian archaeological mission headed by Wazîrî uncovered several artifacts from a Middle Kingdom tomb. Wazîrî explains that the uncovered objects were found inside one of the Middle Kingdom tombs which consists of three shrines and a front court. The tomb was filled with rubble, a collection of pot fragments, remains of wooden coffins and cartonage dating back to different ages, were unearthed after the tomb’s removal. Source: Ministry of Antiquities He explains that the conservation work of the pyramid includes the removal of debris found inside the pyramid’s corridors and burial chamber, installing wooden stairs to facilitate its entrance, re-installing the fallen stones in the hall and corridor to its original location, as well as restoring the deteriorated stones of its floor and installing a new lighting system. Guiding panels and signboards were also provided to the site BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Inside the tomb, a collection of wooden coffins for men, women and children, were found. Some of them were badly carved, and the others were skilfully carved and showing the facial features of the deceased. Warîzî said that the mission also succeeded to unearth a wooden statue, a collection of amulets made of faience, as well as clay vessels of different sizes and shapes, remains of human bones, and wooden boxes filled with a collection of ushabti statuettes made of clay. (Nevine El-Aref, “Inauguration of alLâhûn pyramid and Khuwând Aslabây Mosque after years of restorations in Fayyûm”, Ahram 236 Juin 2019 Online, June 28, 2019. Voir également Fâdî Francis, « Le ministre de l’Archéologie inaugure la pyramide al-Lâhûn », al-Masrî alYawm, 28 juin ; Ahmad Mansûr, « Le ministère de l’Archéologie annonce l’inauguration de la pyramide al-Lâhûn », al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘, 28 juin ; Sanâ’ Fârûq, « Inauguration de la pyramide de Sésostris II », Watanî, 28 juin ; ‘Alâ’ al-Minyâwî, « Découverte d’un trésor archéologique dans une tombe rupestre à alFayyûm », Sada al-Balad, 28 juin ; ‘Umar alMahdî, « Après 120 ans de fermeture, le ministère de l’Archéologie inaugure la BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 pyramide al-Lâhûn », al-Ahrâm, 28 juin ; “The inauguration of the first Middle Kingdom tomb at al-Lâhûn Pyramid”, Egypt Today, June 28; “Fayyûm Mudbrick ‘al-Lâhûn Pyramid Open to Public”, Egyptian Streets, June 30). - - 237 VII - WHO’S WHO ? Voici la liste alphabétique des principaux responsables égyptiens régulièrement cités dans le BIA : Ministère de l’Archéologie ‘Abd al-Hamîd al-Kafâfî ‘Abd al-Mun‘im Sa‘îd Mahmûd ‘Abd al-Nâsir Ahmad ‘Abd al-‘Azîm ‘Abd al-Rahîm Rayhân ‘Abdallah Sa‘d ‘Âdil Dalla ‘Âdil Ghunaym ‘Alâ’ al-Shahhât Directeur général de la planification et du suivi des restaurations Directeur général des antiquités d’Aswân et de Nubie Directeur général de la restauration du temple de Karnak Directeur général des recherches, des études archéologiques et de la publication scientifique en Basse-Égypte et au Sinaï Directeur général de la zone archéologique de Qâytbây, à l’Est du Caire Directeur général des antiquités islamiques du Fayyûm Directeur général des antiquités islamiques et coptes du Caire et de Gîza Vice-président du département des antiquités égyptiennes ‘Alâ’ Fawzî Muhammad Directeur de la documentation archéologique de Sâhil Silîm ‘Alî Ahmad ‘Alî Directeur général du département des antiquités restituées ‘Alî al-Bakrî ‘Alî Dâhî Directeur général des antiquités de Mallawî Directeur général du département des acquisitions archéologiques ‘Amr al-Tîbî Directeur exécutif de l’Unité des reproductions archéologiques ‘Âtif Muhammad al-Sa‘îd Directeur des entrepôts muséologiques islamiques et coptes à Fustât ‘Âtif Nagîb Vice-président du département des antiquités islamiques ‘Awnî Mukhtâr Hasan Directeur des antiquités de Fîrân et d’al-Tawr ‘Awnî Qustantîn Hilmî Directeur général de l’entrepôt muséologique de Tell Bastâ ‘Imâd ‘Uthmân Directeur général de la zone archéologique d’al-Darb al-Ahmar ‘Imâd Hammâd Président du département de la restauration des antiquités de Rosette ‘Isâm Khamîs ‘Isâm Mughâzî ‘Abd alRahmân BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Directeur des antiquités de Mît Rahîna Directeur général de l’entrepôt muséologique de Shatb 238 Who’s Who ? ‘Izzat Habîb Salîb ‘Umar Zakî Directeur général de la restauration des musées du Grand Caire Directeur général des antiquités de Banî Swayf Abû Bakr Ahmad ‘Abdallah Président de l’administration centrale des antiquités du Caire et de Gîza Ahmad ‘Abdallah Bilâl Directeur général du Centre des unités archéologiques de Damiette Ahmad ‘Arabî Directeur général du temple de Louqsor Ahmad ‘Awad Inspecteur en chef de la zone archéologique Ouest d’Aswân Ahmad ‘Awad al-Sa‘îdî Ahmad al-Nimr Ahmad al-Sayyid Ahmad Sulaymân Ahmad Fathî Ahmad Hammûda Sayyid Ahmad Hasan ‘Abd alMâgid Ahmad Hasan Amîn Ahmad Ibrâhîm Ahmad Mahfûz Ibrâhîm Ahmad Mûsa Ahmad Mûsa Mustafa Directeur général des antiquités coptes et islamiques à Asyût Membre du bureau scientifique du ministre de l’Archéologie Directeur de la zone archéologique de l’arbre de la Vierge Marie à Matariyya Directeur de la zone archéologique de Tell al-Amarna Inspecteur en chef des antiquités de Balât Inspecteur en chef des antiquités d’Abû Simbil Directeur de la zone archéologique d’Isnâ Directeur général des zones archéologiques al-Ibâgiyya et al-Tunsî Directeur de l’unité archéologique du port de Damiette Directeur de l’Amphithéâtre romain d’Alexandrie Inspecteur en chef des antiquités de Khârga Ahmad Mutâwi‘ Assistant du président du département des antiquités islamiques et coptes Ahmad Shu‘ayb Président de l’administration générale pour la restauration des antiquités et des musées du Delta Est Ahmad Sulaymân ‘Abd al‘Âal al-Qazzâfî ‘Abd al-Rahîm ‘Azab al-Sayyid al-Talhâwî al-Shâfi‘î Muhammad Zahrân Amîn Ramadân Amîna ‘Abd al-Munsif Amîna al-Bârûdî As’ad al-Amîn Ashraf ‘Abd al-Salâm Ibrâhîm BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Directeur général des antiquités islamiques et coptes d’Asyût Directeur de la zone archéologique de Karnak Inspecteur en chef d’al-Daqahliyya Directeur général des fouilles archéologiques du Centre du Delta Directeur général de la zone archéologique d’al-Qurna Directrice de la restauration des antiquités du Nord d’al-Munûfiyya Assistante du ministre de l’Archéologie pour les services numériques Directeur des antiquités islamiques et coptes de Qinâ Inspecteur en chef des antiquités d’al-Gharbiyya 239 Who’s Who ? Ashraf ‘Ukâsha Ashraf Muhyî al-Dîn Ashraf Sayyid ‘Abd al-Salâm Ayman al-‘Ashmâwî ‘Alî Ayman al-Gunaydî Directeur général des antiquités d’Abydos Directeur général de la zone archéologique de Gîza Directeur général des antiquités de Sayyida Zaynab et d’al-Khalîfa Président du secteur des antiquités égyptiennes Directeur général du palais Muhammad ‘Alî à Shubrâ al-Khayma Ayman Hindî Directeur de la zone archéologique de Qinâ Bâsim Gihâd Assistant du ministre de l’Archéologie pour le développement des ressources humaines Bassâm Hasan Muhammad Dâlyâ Milîgî Directeur de l’Inspectorat de Burg al-‘Arab Directrice générale du Centre de recherches et de la maintenance des antiquités Diyâ’ Gâd al-Karîm Directeur général des recherches et des études archéologiques dans le département des antiquités islamiques Diyâ’ Zahrân Directeur général de l’enregistrement dans le département des antiquités islamiques et coptes Doris Hannâ Directrice générale de l’Ancient Egyptian Art Revival Center Fahîma al-Nahhâs Fathî ‘Awad Fathî al-Tahâwî Gâbir Ahmad Hâziz Directrice générale des fouilles d’Alexandrie Directeur du site archéologique de Tûna al-Gabal Directeur général des antiquités d’al-Daqahliyya Inspecteur en chef des antiquités de l’Ouest de Suhâg Gamâl ‘Abd al-Halîm Farahât Directeur général des antiquités de l’Ouest du Caire et d’alQalyûbiyya Gamâl ‘Abd al-Nâsir Directeur général des antiquités de Suhâg Gamâl Abû Bakr alSamstâwî Gamâl al-Hawwârî Gamâl al-Simistâwî Gamâl al-Sûsânî Gamâl Fârûq al-Qassâs Directeur des antiquités de Moyenne-Égypte Directeur général de la zone archéologique du sultan Hasan et d’alRifâ‘î Directeur général des antiquités de Moyenne-Égypte Directeur de la zone archéologique d’al-Rahmâniyya, gouvernorat al-Buhayra Directeur général de l’administration générale pour l’enregistrement des antiquités du Delta Centre Gamâl Mustafa Président du département des antiquités islamiques, coptes et juives Gharîb Sunbul Président de l’administration centrale pour la restauration et la maintenance Hâla Qadrî Silîm BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Directrice générale des ressources humaines 240 Who’s Who ? Hamdî Humâm Hamdî Amîn Sayyid Hanân Hasan Mitwallî Hânî Abû al-‘Azm Hasan Muhammad Hasan Tâhir Président de l’administration centrale des unités archéologiques portuaires Inspecteur en chef de Saqqâra-Nord et Centre Directrice de l’inspectorat de Dâkhla Président de l’Administration centrale des antiquités de HauteÉgypte Inspecteur en chef des antiquités de Dâkhla Inspecteur en chef de la zone archéologique du Nord de Minyâ Hind Muhammad Abû alFutûh Directrice des antiquités du Nord d’al-Daqahliyya Hisaniyya Muhammad Hilmî Fadîlî Directrice générale des antiquités du Vieux Caire Hishâm al-Laythî Hishâm Gum‘a Hishâm Husayn Hishâm Samîr Husâm ‘Abdallah Ahmad Husâm al-Dîn ‘Abbûd Husâm Ghadiyya Husnî ‘Abd al-Wahâb Ibrâhîm ‘Abd al-Rahmân Ibrâhîm al-‘Assâl Ibrâhîm al-Nuzûrî Ibrâhîm Ragab Directeur général du Centre de documentation et d’études de l’Égypte ancienne Inspecteur en chef des antiquités d’al-Azhar et d’al-Ghûrî Directeur général des antiquités égyptiennes du Nord-Sinaï Adjoint au ministre de l’Archéologie pour les affaires architecturales Directeur général des antiquités de Bâb al-Sha‘riyya Directeur de la publication scientifique à Qinâ Directeur général des antiquités du Sud Sinaï Directeur du temple de Montou Directeur général des zones archéologiques du Vieux Caire et de Fustât Directeur de la zone archéologique d’al-Gharbiyya Directeur général de la documentation archéologique dans le département des antiquités islamiques et coptes Directeur des antiquités islamiques du Fayyûm Ibrâhîm Rif‘at Directeur général de la zone archéologique de Mît Rahîna Ibrâhîm Subhî Inspecteur en chef des antiquités d’al-Buhayra Nord Imân Riyâd Îmân Zaydân Kamâl al-Tûkhî Kâmil Ahmad Karîm Ahmad Hammâd Kârîmân Ahmad Sulaymân BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Directrice général des restaurations à Matariyya et ‘Ayn Shams Assistante du ministre de l’Archéologie pour le développement des ressources financières Restaurateur d’icônes antiques Directeur de la zone archéologique de la Nouvelle Vallée Directeur des antiquités de ‘Ataba Directrice de l’Inspectorat Est d’Alexandrie 241 Who’s Who ? Khâlid ‘Abd al-Ghanî Farahât Directeur de la zone archéologique d’al-Buhayra Khâlid ‘Abd al-Ghanî Farahât Directeur général des antiquités d’al-Buhayra Khâlid Ahmad Shawqî Khâlid al-‘Inânî Khâlid Muhammad Abû al‘Ilâ Khidr Madbûlî Magdî Husayn Muhammad Directeur des antiquités d’Abû Simbil Ministre de l’Archéologie Directeur général des antiquités de Matariyya et de ‘Ayn Shams Directeur général des antiquités du Nord du Caire Directeur général de la zone archéologique de Khârga Magdî Ibrâhîm Directeur général des antiquités d’al-Dâkhla Magdî Mansûr Directeur général des antiquités et des musées du Grand Caire Magdî Muhammad ‘Awad Directeur des temples rupestres de Nubie Magdî Shawqî Midyâr Directeur de la zone archéologique au Sud d’Asyût Mahmûd ‘Abd al-Latîf Directeur de la zone archéologique de Abû Ridîs Mahmûd ‘Abd al-Qâdir ‘Abd al-Salâm Directeur des antiquités d’Alexandrie Ouest Mahmûd Barîqî Président du département de restauration à Kom al-Shuqâfa Mahmûd Musa Directeur général du palais Empain Mahmûd Ragab Mahmûd Salâh Mahmûd Sha‘bân Mahrûs Sa‘îd Directeur général de la zone archéologique de Suez Directeur général des antiquités de Minyâ Directeur des antiquités islamiques et coptes au sud de Gîza Directeur général du Nubian Antiquities Salvage Fund Mamdûh ‘Uda Directeur général du département central de la gestion des crises et des risques Mamdûh Taha Superviseur archéologique du projet de la deuxième barque de Chéops Mansûr ‘Uthmân Directeur général des antiquités islamiques de la Nouvelle Vallée Marwa ‘Abd al-Râziq Responsable du bureau d’enregistrement, de documentation et de la gestion des collections au Musée Égyptien Marwa Sayyid Ismâ‘îl Directrice de l’Unité archéologique à l’aéroport du Caire Mîmî Ibrâhîm ‘Abd al-Samî‘ Muhammad ‘Abd al-‘Azîm Husayn Muhammad ‘Abd al-‘Azîz Muhammad ‘Abd al-Hamîd BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Directeur général de la zone archéologique d’al-Gharbiyya Inspecteur du temple d’Hibis à Khârga Directeur du Historic Cairo Rehabilitation Project (HCRP) Directeur des antiquités d’Alexandrie Est 242 Who’s Who ? Muhammad ‘Abd al-Hamîd Muhammad Râshid Directeur général de la zone archéologique Est du Caire Muhammad ‘Abd al-Maqsûd Coordinateur général du projet de développement des sites archéologiques situés dans l’axe du canal de Suez Muhammad ‘Abd al-Mun‘im ‘Uwayda Directeur général des affaires financières Muhammad ‘Abdallah Muhammad Abû al-Wafâ Directeur général des antiquités Est du Caire Directeur général des antiquités de la mer Rouge Muhammad Abû Srî‘ Directeur général des antiquités d’al-Gamâliyya Muhammad Ahmad ‘Uthmân Directeur de l’Administration de la documentation archéologique d’Asyût Muhammad Ahmad Gâd Muhammad al-Husaynî Tamân Muhammad al-Sayyid alSawwâf Muhammad al-Sayyid Muhannadî Muhammad al-Tuhâmî Muhammad Badîr Khalîl Muhammad Hamâda Muhammad Husayn Directeur de l’Inspectorat d’Abûqîr Directeur général des antiquités islamiques, coptes et juives de Basse-Égypte et du Sinaï Directeur général des antiquités d’al-Gharbiyya Directeur général des antiquités d’Asyût Directeur général des antiquités de Rosette Directeur des antiquités du Sud Sinaï Directeur général des antiquités du Caire et de Gîza Directeur général de la restauration du temple de Louqsor Muhammad Husayn Hindâwî Inspecteur en chef de Saqqâra-Sud Muhammad Ibrâhîm Muhammad Directeur des antiquités de Khârga Muhammad Ismâ‘îl Muhammad Mahmûd Superviseur du Comité permanent et des missions archéologiques étrangères Directeur général de la zone archéologique de Qinâ Muhammad Mahrân Président de l’administration centrale pour les antiquités juives Muhammad Mitwallî Directeur général des antiquités islamiques, coptes et juives d’Alexandrie et de la côte Nord Muhammad Muhammad ‘Abd al-Badî‘ Directeur du Comité permanent des antiquités égyptiennes Muhammad Muhammad ‘Alî ‘Uthmân Directeur général des unités archéologiques des ports Muhammad Mustafa ‘Abbâs Directeur de la zone archéologique de l’imâm al-Shâfi‘î Muhammad Mustafa ‘Abd al-Magîd BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Superviseur général de l’administration centrale d’archéologie sousmarine en Alexandrie 243 Who’s Who ? Muhammad Ramadân Madbûlî Muhammad Rashâd ‘Abd alHamîd Muhammad Sa‘îd Dusûqî Muhammad Sayf al-Sayyid Muhammad Sha‘râwî Muhammad Yahya ‘Uwayda Directeur général des affaires juridiques du CSA Directeur général des antiquités Sud du Caire Directeur général de la zone archéologique de l’imâm al-Shâfi‘î Vice-directeur général des ressources humaines Directeur général de la zone archéologique Ouest du Caire Directeur général des antiquités de Louqsor et de Haute-Égypte Muhammad Yûsuf Directeur des antiquités de Dahshûr et d’al-Lisht Muhammad Zayn Directeur de la zone archéologique du Vieux-Caire Muhsin al-Badawî Directeur général des antiquités d’al-Qalyûbiyya Mukhtâr al-Kasabânî Muna Yusrî Mushîra Mûsa Mustafa ‘Abd al-‘Azîz Mustafa ‘Uthmân Mustafa Ahmad Mahmûd Conseiller du ministre de l’Archéologie Inspectrice en chef d’Asyût Conseillère médiatique du ministre de l’Archéologie Directeur général des zones archéologiques d’al-Minyâ Directeur général des antiquités du Delta Centre Directeur général des antiquités de Haute-Égypte Mustafa al-Saghîr Directeur général des antiquités de Karnak et superviseur du projet du Dromos Mustafa Amîn Conseiller du ministre de l’Archéologie pour les affaires techniques Mustafa Faysal Mustafa Muhammad Nûr alDîn Mustafa Rizq Ibrâhîm Mustafa Rushdî Mustafa Shawqî Ibrâhîm Directeur de l’entrepôt muséologique de Kom Ûshîm Directeur des antiquités de Sirâbît al-Khâdim Directeur général de la préhistoire au Sud Sinaï Directeur général des antiquités du Delta Ouest (Marsa Matrûh, alBuhayra et Mârînâ) Directeur général des antiquités d’al-Sharqiyya Mustafa Subhî Directeur général du suivi technique des antiquités du Caire et de Gîza Mustafa Wazîrî Secrétaire général du Conseil Suprême des Antiquités (CSA) Nabîla Ibrâhîm Ahmad Nâdya Khidr Nâgî Hanafî Mahmûd Nagwa Mitwallî Nasr Gibrîl Ibrâhîm BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Directrice de l’Inspectorat d’al-‘Âmiriyya Présidente de l’administration centrale des antiquités égyptiennes, grecques et romaines au Delta, au Sinaï et sur la côte Nord Directeur général de la zone archéologique de la citadelle de Saladin Directrice générale de l’Administration de la publication scientifique Président de l’Administration centrale des saisies archéologiques 244 Who’s Who ? Ni‘ma Sanad Nirvîn Muhammad Hâfiz Nivîn al-‘Ârif Nûbî Mahmûd Ahmad Qutb Fawzî Qutb Râgyâ Mus‘ad Mâdî Rashâ Kamâl Râshid Muhammad Badrî Ridâ Ramadân Sa‘îd ‘Abd al-Hamîd Sa‘îd Shibl Sabrî Muhyî al-Dîn Farag Sabrî Yûsuf ‘Abd al-Rahmân Safâ’ ‘Abd al-Mun‘im Ibrâhîm Salâh al-Hâdî Salâh al-Mâsikh Salâma Zahrân Sayyid ‘Abd al-‘Alîm Sayyid Ahmad ‘Abd al-Râwî Sayyid al-Shûra Sha‘bân ‘Abd al-Gawwâd Sharîf Fawzî Sharîf Hâmid Sharîf Muhammad ‘Abd alMun‘im Shâzlî Dunqul Sophia ‘Abd al-Hâdî Suhayr al-Sayyid Qunsuwwa Sumayya Binyâmîn Suzi Labîb Târiq Ahmad Mukhtâr Hirsh BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Directrice générale de la zone archéologique de Mârînâ Directrice générale des antiquités de l’Ouest du Caire Consultante médiatique du ministre de l’Archéologie Directeur général de l’administration des fouilles Directeur de la zone archéologique de Kafr al-Shaykh Directrice de l’Inspectorat d’al-‘Agamî Directrice générale du département du développement culturel Directeur de l’inspectorat archéologique de l’Ouest de Suhâg Directeur général des antiquités de Damiette Directeur général des restaurations des musées archéologiques Président de l’administration centrale des entrepôts muséologiques Directeur général des antiquités de Saqqâra Directeur de la zone archéologique de Dâkhla et de Farâfra Directrice générale des études et des recherches Directeur général de la restauration des antiquités islamiques de Bi’r al-‘Abd et d’al-Qantara Sharq Inspecteur en chef des temples de Karnak à Louqsor Directeur général des antiquités islamiques et coptes d’al-Bahnasâ Directeur de la zone archéologique d’al-Qantara Sharq Superviseur de l’Administration des carrières et des mines Directeur général des antiquités du Fayyûm Superviseur général du département des antiquités restituées Coordinateur général de la rue al-Mu‘izz l-Dîn Allah al-Fâtimî Directeur des antiquités du Vieux-Caire Assistant du ministre de l’Archéologie pour le développement des sites archéologiques Inspecteur en chef de Qinâ Directrice générale des antiquités d’al-Darb al-Ahmar et de Sayyida ‘Â’isha Directrice générale des antiquités du Vieux-Caire et de Fustât Présidente du département des Financements Directrice générale des antiquités d’Idfû Directeur général des antiquités de l’Est du Delta, et sous-directeur du secrétaire général du CSA 245 Who’s Who ? Usâma Abû al-Khayr Usâma al-Sayyid Usâma Farîd ‘Uthmân Usâma Hâmid Usâma Mustafa al-Nahhâs Usâma Wahba Viola Khalîl Ibrâhîm Wa‘d Abû al-‘Ilâ Wâ’il Fathî Wâ’il Zakariyyâ al-Balîhî Wagdî ‘Abbâs Abû Ahmad Wahîba Sâlih Walâ’ al-Dîn Badawî Wisâm Kamâl Directeur général de la restauration au sein du Grand Musée Égyptien (GEM) Directeur de la citadelle Qâytbây en Alexandrie Directeur de l’entrepôt muséologique de Tell al-Farâ‘în à Kafr alShaykh Directeur de l’entrepôt muséologique des pyramides Superviseur du bureau technique du ministre Directeur général de l’entrepôt muséologique de Tell al-Yahûdiyya Directrice de l’Inspectorat du Centre d’Alexandrie Président du secteur des projets Inspecteur en chef du plateau de Gîza Directeur général de la restauration des antiquités islamiques et coptes dans l’ouest et le centre du Delta Directeur général du bureau technique du département des antiquités islamiques, et vice-président du secteur des antiquités islamiques et coptes Directrice des antiquités de Dahshûr Directeur général du palais Manyal Directeur de la zone archéologique de Sammanûd Yahya ‘Abd al-Bârî Directeur général de la zone archéologique d’al-Tûd Yâsir ‘Abd al-Karîm Directeur général des antiquités du Centre du Caire Yâsir ‘Îsa Zaghlûl Yâsir Fathî Wahba Yusriyya Ibrâhîm Directeur de la zone archéologique d’al-Munûfiyya Directeur général de l’administration du cadastre et de la topographie dans le secteur des antiquités islamiques Directrice générale de la zone archéologique de Mustafa Kâmil en Alexandrie Yûsuf al-‘Aqd Directeur général de la restauration de l’administration des manuscrits et des papyrus Yûsuf Khalîfa Président de l’administration centrale des antiquités de BasseÉgypte, du Sinaï et de la côte Nord - - Musées ‘Abd al-Râziq al-Naggâr ‘Âtif Muftâh BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Secrétaire général de la commission nationale égyptienne pour les musées Superviseur général du projet du Grand Musée Égyptien (GEM) 246 Who’s Who ? ‘Îsa Zaydân Directeur du département de restauration au Grand Musée Égyptien (GEM) Ahmad ‘Alî Directeur général des équipements du Grand Musée Égyptien (GEM) Ahmad ‘Izz Directeur général du musée archéologique de Suhâg Ahmad al-Laythî Ahmad Humayda Directeur général du musée de Mallawî Directeur général du musée Atonien al-Husayn ‘Abd al-Basîr Directeur du musée archéologique de la Bibliotheca Alexandrina al-Tayyib ‘Abbâs Directeur des affaires archéologiques du projet du Grand Musée Égyptien (GEM) Ashraf Abû al-Yazîd Gamâl al-Bilim Gîhân ‘Âtif Hishâm Farghalî Huda Kamâl Husnî ‘Abd al-Rahîm Ilhâm Salâh al-Dîn Directeur général du musée des Textiles égyptiens Directeur général de la bibliothèque du Musée Égyptien Directrice générale du musée Copte Directeur général du musée du Nil à Aswân Directrice générale du musée de l’obélisque de Matariyya Directeur général du musée de la Nubie Présidente du secteur des musées Îmân Shawqî Superviseur du musée de la Barque de Chéops Khâlid ‘Azab Président du conseil d’administration de la commission nationale égyptienne pour les musées Magdî Mansûr Mahâ Muhammad Mahrûs Sa‘îd Mamdûh Hasan ‘Uthmân Mamdûh Ramadân Mirvat ‘Izzat Mu’min ‘Uthmân Directeur général de la restauration du musée Copte Présidente de l’administration centrale des musées historiques Superviseur général du musée national de la Civilisation égyptienne (NMEC) Superviseur général du musée d’Art islamique Conservateur en chef du musée de Kom Ûshîm Directrice générale du Musée Gayer-Anderson (Bayt al-Kiritliyya) Directeur général de la restauration au Musée Égyptien Muhammad ‘Abd al-Rasûl Président de l’Administration centrale des antiquités islamiques de Haute-Égypte Muhammad Badr Directeur des magasins et des registres du Grand Musée Égyptien (GEM) Muhammad Sayyid alSharqâwî Muna Sha‘bân Nabîla Hasanayn Nivîn Nazâr BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Directeur du musée de ROMMEL Directrice générale du musée archéologique d’Ismâ‘îliyya Directrice générale du palais al-Gawhara Adjoint au ministre pour les affaires muséographiques 247 Who’s Who ? Rândâ Muhammad ‘Abd alRa’ûf Sa‘îd ‘Abd al-Hamîd Sa‘îd Rakhâ Directrice générale des musées régionaux Directeur général de la restauration des musées archéologiques Directeur général du musée archéologique de Rosette Sabâh ‘Abd al-Râziq Directrice générale du Musée Égyptien de Tahrîr Sabâh Muslim Directrice générale des musées de Basse-Égypte Sâmih al-Masrî Directeur général de la planification et de la restauration des musées Sanâ’ Ahmad ‘Alî Târiq al-Qal‘î Directrice générale des musées de Haute-Égypte Directeur général du musée archéologique de la Nouvelle Vallée Usâma Abû al-Khayr Directeur exécutif du centre de restauration du Grand Musée Égyptien (GEM) Walâ’ al-Dîn Badawî Directeur général du musée du palais Manyal - - Universités ‘Abbâs Mansûr ‘Abd al-Wahâb ‘Izzat ‘Âtif Mansûr Ahmad al-Ansârî Amîn Lutfî Fâyza Haykal Gamâl al-Dîn ‘Alî Abû alMagd Gum‘a ‘Abd al-Maqsûd Hânî Hilâl Président de l’Université du Sud de la Vallée Président de l’université de ‘Ayn Shams Doyen de la faculté d’Archéologie, université du Fayyûm Chef du département d’archéologie égyptienne à l’université de Suhâg Président de l’université de Banî Swayf Professeur d’égyptologie à l’American University in Cairo (AUC) Président de l’université de Minyâ Doyen de la faculté d’Archéologie, université du Caire Professeur de polytechnique à la faculté Polytechnique, univeristé du Caire ; ScanPyramids Projet coordinator Khâlid Gharîb Président du département des antiquités grecques et romaines à l’université Misr Khâlid Hamza Président de l’université du Fayyûm Khâlid Hasan ‘Abd a-Bârî Président de l’université de Zaqâzîq Mâgid Nigm Mamdûh al-Damâtî BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Président de l’université de Hilwân Ancien ministre de l’Archéologie, professeur d’archéologie à l’université de Lettres, université de ‘Ayn Shams 248 Who’s Who ? Mansûr al-Nûbî Muhammad ‘Uthmân alKhasht Muhammad Hasan alQinâwî Muhammad Kamâl Khallâf Mukhtâr al-Kasabânî Muna Fu’âd Doyen de la faculté d’Archéologie de Louqsor Président de l’université du Caire Président de l’université d’al-Mansûra Président du département de la restauration à la faculté d’Archéologie, université du Fayyûm Professeur d’archéologie islamique, université du Caire et conseiller scientifique du ministre de l’Archéologie Chef du département de restauration de la faculté d’Archéologie, université du Caire Muna Haggâg Chef du département des études grecques et romaines à la faculté de Lettres, université d’Alexandrie Nâsir Mikkâwî Chef du département d’Archéologie à la faculté d’Archéologie, université du Caire Ra’fat al-Nabarâwî Salâh al-Khûlî Sâmî Sabrî Shâkir Professeur d’archéologie islamique à l’université du Caire Professeur d’archéologie à la faculté d’Archéologie de l’université du Caire Doyen de l’Institut des études coptes - - Pouvoir exécutif ‘Abd al-Hamîd al-Haggân ‘Âdil al-Ghadbân ‘Isâm Sa‘d Ahmad ‘Abd al-Zâhir Ahmad ‘Abdallah Gouverneur de Qinâ Gouverneur de Port Sa‘îd Gouverneur du Fayyûm Directeur de la Police du Tourisme et des Antiquités Gouverneur d’Hurghada Ahmad al-Ansârî Gouverneur de Suhâg Ahmad Ibrâhîm Gouverneur d’Aswân Ahmad Râshid Gouverneur de Gîza Hishâm al-Sa‘îd Hishâm Âmina Înâs ‘Abd al-Dâyyim Ismâ‘îl ‘Abd al-Hamîd Taha Khâlid ‘Abd al-‘Aal BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Gouverneur d’al-Gharbiyya Gouverneur d’al-Buhayra Ministre de la Culture Gouverneur de Kafr al-Shaykh Gouverneur du Caire 249 Who’s Who ? Khâlid Fûda Gouverneur du Sud Sinaï Khâlid Sa‘îd Gouverneur d’al-Sharqiyya Magdî al-Gharâblî Muhammad ‘Ashmâwî Muhammad Badr Muhammad Mukhtâr Gum‘a Muhammad Sultân Mustafa Madbûlî Qâsim Husayn Rânyâ al-Mashât Gouverneur de Matrûh Gouverneur de la Nouvelle Vallée Gouverneur de Louqsor Ministre des Waqfs Gouverneur d’Alexandrie Premier ministre Gouverneur d’al-Minyâ Ministre du Tourisme Ridâ Farahât Gouverneur d’al-Qalyûbiyya Sa‘îd ‘Abbâs Gouverneur d’al-Munûfiyya Sharîf Habîb Gouverneur de Banî Swayf Târiq Nasr Gouverneur de Minyâ Yâsîn Tâhir Gouverneur d’Ismâ‘îliyya Yâsir al-Dusûqî Gouverneur d’Asyût - - Divers ‘Alî Radwân Président de l’Union générale des archéologues arabes Ahmad ‘Awwâd Président du Fonds de développement culturel (CDF) Ciara BERDISKI Responsable culturel du bureau de l’Unesco au Caire Fathî Sâlih Conseiller pour les affaires du patrimoine auprès du conseil des ministres Hishâm ‘Azmî Président du Conseil d’administration du Dâr al-kutub wa-l-wathâ’iq al-qawmiyya Husâm Ismâ‘îl Professeur d’archéologie islamique à l’université de ‘Ayn Shams et président de l’Association du patrimoine et des arts traditionnels Lu’ayy Sa‘îd Monica Hannâ Directeur du Centre des études coptes Présidente de l’Unité archéologique à l’Académie arabe des sciences, technologies et transport maritime Muhammad Abû Si‘da Président du National Organisation for Urban Harmony (NOUH) Muhammad al-Kahlâwî Secrétaire général de l’Union générale des archéologues arabes BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 250 Who’s Who ? Muhammad Fârûq Muna ‘Abd al-Ghanî Haggâg Mustafa al-Fiqî Nagwa al-Shâzlî Ra’fat al-Nabarâwî Sâlih Lam‘î Directeur du National Center for Documentation of Cultural and Natural Heritage (CULTNAT) Présidente de l’Association des antiquités grecques en Alexandrie Directeur de la Bibliotheca Alexandrina (Bibalex) Présidente du conseil d’administration du Sound and Light Company Ancien doyen de la faculté d’Archéologie Professeur d’architecture et directeur du Centre de ressuscitation du patrimoine architectural islamique - - BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 251 VIII - INDEX A Académies Académie des Inscriptions et Belles-Lettres .............................................................. 56 ADN ...... 94, 122, 131, 180, 195, 202, 203, 204 Aéroports Aéroport international du Caire 90, 175, 176 Agences de presse ....................................... 59 Agence France Presse (AFP) . 16, 57, 58, 166 Associated Press (AP) ................................ 69 Middle East News Agency (MENA) ... 32, 43, 47, 62, 64, 119, 144, 159, 166, 170, 179, 182, 221, 227 Reuters ...................... 59, 152, 181, 228, 229 al-Azhar........................... 24, 83, 140, 186, 241 Amphore ...................................... 47, 136, 213 Amulette ............... 60, 130, 136, 190, 200, 236 Anastylose .................................................... 16 Anatomie humaine Barbe ................................................ 75, 228 Crâne ............................................ 18, 38, 70 Squelette ...................... 18, 29, 38, 189, 198 Ancre .......................................................... 117 Ankh ............................................... 39, 55, 212 Arabesque .................................................. 184 Arbres Acacia ..................................................... 127 Palmier ...................................................... 20 Armée ................................. 119, 120, 195, 221 Armes Char ................................................ 174, 234 Flèche ..................................................... 200 Fusil ........................... 86, 130, 147, 175, 176 Lance................................... 21, 82, 117, 177 Poignard ................................................. 212 Artères historiques Rue al-Khalîfa ............................ 49, 141, 240 Rue al-Mu‘izz l-Dîn Allâh al-Fâtimî 39, 85, 86, 139, 140, 141, 158, 160, 161, 170, 171, 245 Artisanat ................................. 10, 99, 141, 233 Artisans ............................... 130, 142, 143, 223 BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Astronomie ................................................... 24 Atlantide ........................................... 11, 53, 54 Autel ........................................................... 192 B Bâb-s Bâb al-Futûh ................................... 140, 170 Bâb al-Wadâ‘ .................................. 142, 143 Bâb al-Wazîr ...................................... 36, 143 Bâb Zuwayla ............................................ 140 Bactérie ...................................................... 114 Bains ............. 20, 31, 61, 84, 86, 144, 156, 185 Bandelette .................................................. 235 Barques ..... 21, 71, 72, 97, 123, 124, 126, 127, 133, 147, 167, 219, 227, 242 Barque de Chéops .......... 124, 219, 242, 247 Barrages Haut barrage d’Aswân ................ 57, 68, 157 Basilique ....................................................... 20 Bateau .................................... 55, 72, 123, 127 Bible ............................................................. 20 Bibliothèques ........... 74, 82, 84, 107, 119, 247 Bibliotheca Alexandrina (Bibalex) 48, 57, 98, 220, 247, 251 Bibliothèque nationale de France (BnF) . 107 Dâr al-Kutub wa-l-wathâ’iq al-qawmiyya . 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 186, 187 Bijoux . 14, 37, 48, 61, 122, 141, 143, 144, 147, 155, 190, 221, 223 Bague................................................ 61, 190 Boucle d’oreille ................................. 61, 144 Bracelet ..................................... 61, 130, 144 Colliers .................. 50, 60, 61, 144, 190, 191 Botanique ........................................... 144, 190 Braille .......................................... 220, 221, 232 Bustes ..... 73, 77, 122, 141, 169, 172, 207, 222 Buste de Néfertiti................................ 77, 79 C Cairo Opera House ...................................... 58 Calligraphies ............................................... 162 Campagne d’Égypte .................................... 69 252 Index Canneaux Canal al-Mahmûdiyya ..................... 101, 193 Canal al-Mansûriyya ................................ 228 Canal de Suez 14, 15, 64, 100, 120, 199, 243 Carrières ....... 52, 55, 84, 91, 99, 100, 133, 136 Cartographie 23, 24, 30, 38, 75, 129, 151, 156, 166, 171, 209, 225 Cartonnage........... 65, 167, 168, 175, 198, 236 Cartouche ................... 16, 17, 26, 54, 134, 210 Catacombes ....................... 101, 102, 192, 193 Catacombes de Kom al-Shuqâfa ... 101, 102, 125, 156, 192, 193, 242 Catalogue ................................................... 224 CD-ROM ....................................................... 24 Centres de recherches American Research Center in Egypt (ARCE) ............................................................ 157 Center of Documentation and Studies of Ancient Egypt ...................................... 241 Chicago House ....................................... 173 National Center for Documentation of Cultural and Natural Heritage (CULTNAT) .................................................... 225, 251 Céramique ...................................... 60, 70, 206 Cercueil .............................................. 169, 193 Céréales........................................................ 61 Chaînes de télévision 11, 41, 54, 96, 123, 138, 150, 152, 196, 197 BBC ........................................................... 12 CNN ........................................................ 196 Discovery Channel .......................... 150, 152 Fox News Channel ............................ 99, 150 Chambre funéraire29, 45, 63, 65, 68, 113, 114, 115, 124, 130, 160, 165, 175, 192, 203, 236 Chapelles . 14, 20, 21, 32, 61, 66, 67, 100, 105, 157, 206, 236 Chapelle d’Alexandre le Grand ................ 21 Chasse .................................... 67, 88, 167, 234 Chaussée montante ...................................... 54 Cimetières ... 39, 40, 43, 52, 53, 66, 76, 86, 87, 88, 102, 143, 152, 165, 166, 168, 171, 175, 181, 182, 189, 190, 198 Cimetière al-Basâtîn ............................ 86, 87 Citadelles ...................... 72, 201, 211, 218, 219 Citadelle de Qâytbây .............................. 246 Citadelle de Saladin ................................ 141 Citadelle du Caire ................................... 211 Citernes ........................................................ 30 Collectionneur ............................................ 189 Colloque ..................................................... 106 BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Colonnes 16, 20, 50, 66, 67, 91, 134, 137, 138, 165, 168, 184, 189, 211, 212 Colonne de Mérenptah .......................... 212 Colosses .... 16, 74, 75, 76, 130, 151, 156, 164, 172, 173, 211, 212 Colosse de Ramsès II ................................ 76 Comités ..... 25, 29, 30, 32, 35, 88, 90, 92, 183, 204, 224, 235 Comité permanent des Antiquités du CSA ........................................ 14, 86, 227, 243 Compagnies du BTP National Co. for General Construction & Supplies ....................................... 149, 156 Orascom Construction Industries ........... 211 The Arab Contractors Osman Ahmed Osman & Co. ......................................... 14 Complexe de Qalâwwûn ............................ 140 Congrès ...................................................... 135 Conseil Suprême des Antiquités 10, 16, 17, 27, 28, 30, 32, 33, 34, 35, 43, 44, 45, 46, 64, 65, 69, 70, 71, 72, 75, 78, 80, 88, 91, 95, 101, 108, 111, 113, 114, 115, 117, 118, 127, 133, 136, 138, 148, 150, 151, 164, 166, 168, 171, 173, 175, 179, 181, 185, 193, 200, 205, 224, 231, 236, 244, 245 Conservation 11, 22, 63, 65, 83, 92, 93, 95, 96, 100, 101, 106, 107, 108, 113, 114, 115, 125, 147, 169, 193, 203, 206, 211, 229, 235, 236 Coopération ...... 17, 20, 32, 48, 112, 116, 126, 147, 153, 159, 162, 163, 170, 180, 187, 193, 217, 229, 230 Coran .............................................. 23, 24, 157 Corégence .......................................... 201, 202 Cosmétique .................. 37, 143, 144, 190, 191 Couleurs blanc ....... 24, 50, 53, 54, 158, 164, 173, 175 bleu ..................... 39, 60, 144, 152, 168, 212 jaune ....................................................... 208 noir 16, 24, 41, 44, 84, 89, 92, 122, 129, 147, 226, 231 rose ........................................... 49, 114, 124 rouge .................................................. 19, 39 vert ...................................................... 39, 60 Coupole ...................................................... 142 Couronnes .................. 50, 54, 91, 99, 173, 212 Double couronne ............................ 173, 212 Croix ....................................... 26, 39, 105, 144 D Danse ......................................................... 155 Dépôt de fondation ...................................... 40 253 Index Déserts ......................................... 40, 142, 185 Désert Occidental ............................... 40, 52 Nouvelle Vallée .... 39, 134, 241, 242, 248, 250 Désert Oriental ............................... 184, 185 Disque solaire ..................................... 122, 134 Divinités ..... 40, 56, 75, 97, 131, 152, 157, 160, 174, 175, 181 Amon 12, 21, 41, 43, 75, 146, 149, 151, 195, 212, 224 Amon-Rê ..................................... 97, 98, 122 Aton ................................ 66, 67, 68, 88, 118 Bastet ...................................... 124, 125, 222 Duamutef ................................................ 122 Hâpy................................................ 168, 175 Hathor ......................................... 56, 60, 222 Horus 54, 121, 122, 124, 125, 131, 136, 137, 165, 168, 185 Isis ................................. 40, 43, 51, 152, 222 Isis-Thermouthis ........................................ 61 Khnoum ...................................... 21, 54, 175 Khonsou .................................................... 91 Maât ................................................ 181, 222 Min ...... 34, 36, 62, 75, 76, 81, 134, 140, 201 Néfertoum ................................................ 87 Osiris ......................................... 69, 190, 197 Ptah ..................................................... 97, 98 Ptah-Sokar-Osiris ................................ 89, 92 Rê ...................................................... 52, 130 Rê-Horakhty ................................ 97, 98, 212 Satis ........................................................ 175 Sekhmet .................................. 109, 160, 222 Seth ................................................. 137, 165 Soknebtynis............................................... 61 Thot........................................... 55, 189, 190 Vénus ............................................ 42, 75, 84 Dômes ............................ 23, 45, 142, 143, 184 Donation ....................................................... 52 Dromos ....................... 144, 208, 216, 217, 244 E Eau souterraine 11, 31, 53, 101, 102, 125, 149, 156, 157, 193 Écritures Démotique ................................ 65, 160, 190 Hiératique ......................................... 60, 168 Hiéroglyphes ...... 26, 27, 60, 71, 75, 91, 131, 171, 175, 181, 189, 233 Écurie .......................................................... 188 Églises 19, 20, 21, 31, 104, 105, 107, 144, 153, 157, 158, 174, 186, 205, 206 BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris ........... 161 Église al-Mu‘allaqa .................................. 215 Église Saint-Serge ................................... 153 Enchères ...... 16, 17, 22, 24, 25, 154, 155, 223, 224, 227, 229 Entrepôts muséologiques ..... 35, 99, 108, 235, 238, 244, 245, 246 Entreprises BESIX Group ........................................... 211 Egyptian Sound and Light Show Company (ESLSC) .................................................. 48 Siemens Medical Solutions ....................... 94 Environnement ..................................... 10, 110 Époques byzantine................................. 36, 37, 61, 65 copte .... 20, 21, 39, 40, 48, 85, 86, 100, 103, 104, 105, 119, 120, 135, 143, 144, 154, 156, 157, 158, 161, 174, 183, 185, 212, 213, 215 gréco-romaine ..... 10, 34, 46, 47, 60, 74, 75, 100, 104, 144, 171, 175, 189, 192, 193, 194, 215 grecque ......... 32, 40, 41, 126, 157, 213, 220 hellénistique.................................... 102, 117 islamique ...... 20, 47, 48, 74, 76, 82, 83, 100, 103, 104, 143, 159, 188, 194, 247, 249, 250, 251 abbasside .............................................. 24 ayyoubide ............................................ 142 fatimide ........................... 39, 85, 139, 140 mamelouke . 22, 23, 24, 84, 142, 143, 183, 188 ottomane 19, 119, 142, 143, 183, 184, 221 Moyen Âge ............................................... 86 Néolithique ..................................... 184, 185 perse ................................................. 16, 190 pharaonique Ancien Empire .. 9, 12, 34, 44, 45, 56, 138, 165, 182, 189 IIIe dynastie ........................................ 70 IVe dynastie .......................... 34, 56, 165 Ve dynastie 55, 137, 138, 163, 164, 165, 166, 181, 182 e VI dynastie .............................. 138, 166 Basse époque 45, 150, 152, 169, 174, 181 XXVIe dynastie ... 55, 152, 182, 199, 200 Deuxième Période intermédiaire .......... 44 XIIIe dynastie .................................... 154 dynasties XVIIe dynastie ................................... 168 254 Index Moyen Empire 37, 54, 55, 67, 89, 92, 154, 155, 179, 236, 237 XIe dynastie .......................... 67, 82, 167 XIIe dynastie ..................................... 229 Nouvel Empire ... 21, 37, 66, 91, 172, 173, 174, 200, 221 XIXe dynastie .............................. 49, 133 XVIIIe dynastie ..... 21, 91, 100, 133, 168, 173, 174, 222, 229 XXe dynastie ....................................... 26 Première Période intermédiaire ............ 70 Ramesside ........................................... 133 Troisième Période intermédiaire XXIe dynastie .............................. 89, 178 prédynastique ....................................... 9, 44 Nagada I................................................ 44 préhistoire ......................... 44, 114, 231, 244 ptolémaïque... 21, 42, 47, 61, 65, 68, 71, 72, 136, 148, 157, 160, 174, 192, 213, 214, 235 romaine 9, 18, 19, 21, 25, 28, 29, 31, 32, 33, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 61, 65, 66, 68, 72, 75, 91, 102, 139, 148, 154, 160, 161, 190, 192, 198, 210, 220, 244, 248, 249 saïte .................................................... 9, 199 Équinoxe ...................................................... 98 Ermitage ................................................. 19, 20 Ermites.............................................. 18, 19, 39 Érosion........................................................ 205 Esclave .................................................. 52, 181 Exposition archéologique 9, 10, 13, 14, 18, 23, 25, 37, 38, 39, 40, 51, 57, 60, 61, 67, 68, 70, 72, 73, 74, 79, 99, 100, 104, 105, 108, 110, 111, 115, 117, 118, 119, 120, 121, 122, 123, 126, 127, 128, 129, 130, 131, 132, 140, 141, 143, 144, 145, 146, 147, 155, 158, 159, 160, 161,178, 187, 188, 189, 190, 191, 209, 210, 211, 212, 213, 215, 220, 221, 222, 223, 225, 231, 232, 233 F Faïence . 60, 122, 136, 167, 168, 190, 200, 236 Famille royale Ahmès-Néfertary ............................. 221, 222 Ankhesenamon ....................... 195, 196, 203 Bint-Anat ................................................... 75 Hétephérès ............................................... 54 Kkâemouaset .......................................... 118 Méritamon .......................... 74, 75, 151, 231 Méritaton .......................................... 88, 202 Moutnedjmet .......................... 196, 203, 204 BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Néfertari .. 57, 94, 96, 97, 109, 114, 198, 231 Néfertiti .... 67, 68, 77, 79, 89, 109, 180, 196, 201, 202, 203, 204, 221, 222 Pentaour ................................................. 195 Setibhor .................................. 137, 138, 165 Tiy ............................. 94, 196, 202, 203, 222 Figurine ...................... 122, 130, 131, 147, 167 Fleurs .................................................... 66, 191 Lotus ......................................................... 67 Fœtus ......................................... 195, 203, 204 Fondations Aga Khan Trust for Culture (AKTC) .... 36, 84, 171, 175 Fondation Georges RICARD ..................... 169 Fonds Fonds de développement culturel (CDF) 250 Nubian Antiquities Salvage Fund ........... 242 World Heritage Fund ................................ 31 Fontaine ............................................. 142, 143 Forteresses ................................. 200, 201, 219 Fossile................................................... 44, 213 Fouilles .... 9, 21, 28, 32, 33, 35, 41, 42, 43, 52, 57, 60, 61, 62, 69, 70, 71, 76, 80, 81, 87, 88, 91, 92, 93, 96, 99, 126, 127, 135, 136, 137, 142, 143, 148, 152, 156, 157, 160, 163, 164, 168, 170, 178, 181, 189, 200, 201, 213, 219, 220, 235, 239, 240, 245 Fresque ......................................................... 20 G Gabal al-Silsila .... 32, 38, 91, 99, 100, 132, 133 Gouvernorats ..... 9, 10, 38, 39, 47, 49, 60, 103, 112, 162, 188, 208, 216, 217, 235, 240 Gouvernorat d’al-Minyâ ...................... 10, 35 Gouvernorat d’al-Sharqiyya ............ 162, 217 Gouvernorat d’Asyût ............................... 103 Gouvernorat de Gîza ........................ 49, 112 Gouvernorat de la Nouvelle Vallée........... 39 Gouvernorat de Louqsor ................ 208, 216 Gouvernorat du Caire ..................... 209, 231 Graffiti................................................... 54, 113 Grand Prêtre ............................................... 189 Guerre .................. 42, 100, 106, 127, 155, 223 H Harem ................................................. 194, 223 Hittites ................................................ 197, 198 Humidité ...... 34, 59, 63, 94, 95, 101, 108, 122, 208, 234 Hyksôs .................................................. 44, 203 255 Index I Icône ..................................... 49, 140, 141, 241 Îles Chypre .................................................... 134 Incendie ................ 86, 122, 127, 161, 180, 211 Infiltration ........................................... 101, 193 Inhumation ................................................... 70 Insectes....................................................... 219 Scarabée ............................... 44, 60, 80, 136 Instituts Czech Institute of Egyptology in Cairo ... 164 Deutsches Archäologisches Institut Kairo (DAIK) .............................................. 31, 56 Getty Conservation Institute (GCI) 45, 59, 62, 92, 94, 95, 113, 115 Institut français d’archéologie orientale (Ifao) ................ 60, 61, 107, 163, 178, 201, 217 Stanford Research Institute ....................... 12 Instruments de toilette Épingles à cheveux ................................... 61 Miroir 37, 140, 141, 143, 191, 192, 225, 232 Peigne ....................................... 61, 143, 223 Internet .. 24, 37, 103, 107, 118, 128, 146, 177, 180 Irrigation ................................. 30, 31, 194, 209 Islam ............................................. 47, 154, 215 Ivoire ............................. 60, 122, 123, 144, 186 Iwân ............................................................ 184 J Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) ...................................... 211, 219, 234 Jardins ... 89, 90, 119, 142, 154, 159, 188, 192, 209, 226, 228 Jardin al-Andalous .............................. 89, 90 Jarre.......................... 31, 35, 44, 122, 143, 167 Jésus ..................................................... 20, 105 Journée mondiale du patrimoine ...... 159, 160, 161, 164, 166, 167, 168, 174, 187, 191 Juif .......... 20, 44, 53, 85, 86, 87, 157, 183, 185 K Ka ............................................................... 147 Khânqâ Khânqâ al-Nizâmiyya .............................. 143 Khôl .................................... 140, 143, 144, 223 Kom-s Kom al-Hîtân ....................................... 56, 57 Kom al-Khilgân ......................................... 44 BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Kom al-Shuqâfa...... 101, 102, 125, 156, 192, 193, 194, 242 Kom Ûshîm.............................. 201, 244, 247 Kuttâb-s ...................................................... 184 L Lacs..................................................... 207, 230 ‘Ayn al-Sîra ...................................... 207, 230 Lac Nâsir ....................................... 57, 68, 97 Lampe......................... 29, 31, 60, 61, 175, 225 Le Caire historique ...... 30, 39, 49, 85, 86, 140, 141, 143, 149, 158, 159, 182, 225, 242 al-Hattâba ............................... 141, 142, 143 Le Caire khédivial ................................... 48, 49 Liste du patrimoine........... 14, 86, 89, 100, 103 Livre des Morts ........................................... 189 Lois Loi 117/1983 ........................... 37, 76, 88, 90 M Madrasa-s ............................................... 83, 86 Magie ........................................................... 40 Maladies ................................. 18, 23, 194, 204 Cancer............................................. 180, 194 Diabète ................................................... 194 Lèpre ......................................................... 31 Paludisme ................................. 94, 122, 131 Malédiction des pharaons ............................ 11 Mammifères ..... 44, 66, 88, 148, 185, 189, 213, 219 Âne ......................................................... 213 Babouin ................................................... 189 Bélier ......................................................... 17 Chameau................................................... 31 Chat ........................................ 148, 164, 223 Chauve-souris ......................................... 225 Cheval ................. 55, 73, 102, 120, 188, 213 Chien....................................................... 148 Éléphant .......................................... 185, 225 Gazelle ...................................................... 67 Girafe ...................................................... 185 Hippopotame ......................................... 174 Léopard........................................... 122, 129 Lion ................................. 139, 147, 157, 223 Mouton ..................................................... 52 Musaraigne ............................................. 148 Panthère .................................................. 147 Singe ................................................. 88, 168 Taureau ..................................................... 70 Vache ........................................................ 52 Manuscrit .......... 22, 23, 24, 105, 187, 215, 246 256 Index Maquette .................................................... 106 Marathon ...................................................... 78 Masques .. 35, 89, 92, 106, 121, 168, 169, 171, 175, 178, 189, 190, 228 Mastabas .......................................... 35, 44, 70 Matériaux de construction Argile ........................................................ 36 Béton ........................................ 15, 169, 205 Bois ...... 14, 37, 46, 61, 63, 65, 72, 104, 113, 122, 123, 124, 127, 129, 142, 143, 144, 147, 157, 162, 167, 168, 171, 172, 175, 181, 183, 184, 186, 189, 190, 191, 192, 212, 219, 223, 233, 234, 236 Ébène .................................................. 122 Brique ................................... 19, 70, 84, 200 Brique crue .... 19, 29, 45, 46, 52, 70, 76, 77, 134, 168, 200, 236 Ciment ........................................ 11, 21, 226 Gypse ................................................ 73, 190 Plâtre ................................................. 29, 168 Mausolées .................................... 58, 142, 205 Mausolée de l’Aga Khan ......................... 175 Médailles ............................ 20, 21, 72, 74, 196 Médecine.............................................. 24, 110 Mers Mer Méditerranée ............... 31, 41, 126, 206 Alexandrie .. 10, 21, 33, 37, 43, 73, 74, 76, 101, 102, 103, 104, 106, 127, 192, 193, 206, 239, 240, 241, 242, 243, 246, 249, 250, 251 Marsa Matrûh .................. 9, 117, 244, 250 Mer Rouge .................... 10, 54, 59, 178, 243 Halâyyib ............................................... 161 Hurghada .......... 10, 59, 60, 150, 198, 249 Marsa ‘Alam ................................ 197, 198 Sharm al-Shaykh . 9, 10, 99, 116, 150, 197, 198 Métaux................ 15, 35, 46, 61, 100, 157, 210 Argent ...... 20, 23, 24, 26, 42, 104, 120, 122, 140, 141, 143, 180, 213 Bronze .. 61, 72, 73, 120, 136, 139, 143, 144, 168, 169, 191, 192, 200, 223 Cuivre ............................ 33, 43, 86, 196, 200 Fer ................................. 35, 47, 72, 117, 183 Or . 18, 20, 24, 26, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 42, 43, 56, 86, 93, 94, 95, 96, 105, 106, 121, 122, 125, 126, 129, 130, 132, 134, 136, 139, 143, 147, 152, 190, 226, 227, 228, 233 Microfilm....................................................... 24 BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Mihrâb ........................................ 183, 184, 236 Minaret ......................... 83, 182, 183, 184, 205 Minbar ........................................ 184, 186, 236 Ministères Ministère de l’Archéologie 9, 10, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 40, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 50, 59, 60, 61, 64, 65, 66, 68, 70, 71, 72, 75, 76, 77, 78, 80, 81, 85, 86, 87, 90, 91, 92, 95, 100, 101, 103, 104, 108, 109, 111, 112, 116, 117, 118, 125, 126, 127, 132, 133, 135, 136, 137, 138, 139, 140, 141, 144, 147, 148, 149, 151, 152, 153, 156, 158, 159, 160, 161, 162, 163, 166, 167, 169, 170, 173, 174, 177, 178, 179, 180, 182, 184, 185, 186, 192, 193, 204, 205, 209, 216, 217, 219, 223, 224, 225, 227, 228, 229, 231, 232, 235, 236, 237, 239, 240, 241, 244, 245, 248, 249 Ministère de l’Intérieur ............................ 177 Ministère de la Culture ................... 119, 211 Ministère du Tourisme 20, 98, 106, 139, 140, 149, 154, 196, 199, 215 Mission française des fouilles de Tanis (MFFT) ................................................................ 163 Mobilier ...................................................... 142 Moine ....................................... 32, 39, 40, 144 Moïse .......................................... 154, 185, 215 Momies .. 10, 18, 35, 37, 38, 39, 40, 51, 60, 63, 65, 68, 81, 90, 92, 93, 94, 95, 121, 122, 130, 131, 136, 148, 150, 152, 160, 161, 169, 171, 174, 175, 178, 180, 189, 190, 194, 195, 196, 198, 201, 202, 203, 204, 206, 207, 208, 223, 228, 230, 231, 235 Momie de Néfertiti ......................... 180, 202 Momie de Toutankhamon ........ 94, 203, 204 The 'screaming mummy'......................... 207 Momification.... 29, 51, 93, 124, 147, 164, 165, 175, 202, 229 Monastères .... 18, 19, 20, 21, 31, 32, 105, 144, 154, 157, 158, 185, 186, 215 al-Dayr al-Abyad ............................. 158, 159 al-Dayr al-Ahmar ..................... 157, 158, 159 Dayr al-Barâmus ...................................... 153 Dayr al-Suryân ......................................... 153 Monastère al-Muharraq ............................ 21 Monastère d’Abou-Nefer .............. 18, 19, 20 Monastère de Saint Bishoy ..................... 154 Monastère de Saint Ménas ... 30, 31, 32, 159 257 Index Monastère de Sainte-Catherine ..... 159, 185, 186 Monnaie 20, 21, 23, 24, 36, 37, 40, 60, 61, 82, 105, 126, 135, 136, 139, 175, 176, 200, 207, 213 Montgolfière ............................................... 146 Mosquées ..................... 58, 182, 183, 184, 236 Mosquée Ahmad Ibn Tûlûn .................... 221 Mosquée al-Hâkim .................................. 140 Mosquée al-Kâshif .................................. 184 Mosquée al-Mu’ayyid Shaykh ................. 186 Mosquée al-Mujahideen ......................... 184 Mosquée al-Tanbaghâ al-Mârdânî ............ 36 Mosquée de l’imâm al-Shâfi‘î ................. 142 Mosquée Fâtima al-Shaqrâ’ ............ 182, 184 Mosquée Khuwând Aslabây ................... 236 Mosquée Mangak al-Yûsufî............. 142, 143 Mosquée Muhammad ‘Alî ........................ 58 Mosquée Sîdî Shibl al-Aswad ................. 205 Murailles ....................................... 19, 142, 200 Musées Ägyptisches Museum und Papyrussammlung Berlin-Charlottenburg .............................................................. 27 Bolton Museum....................................... 124 British Museum ......... 27, 135, 145, 228, 229 Brooklyn Museum of Art ................. 117, 118 Grand Musée Égyptien (GEM) . 9, 14, 15, 25, 27, 34, 51, 62, 69, 77, 81, 105, 106, 111, 115, 121, 123, 126, 131, 145, 146, 151, 177, 178, 179, 180, 187, 197, 198, 199, 207, 208, 209, 210, 211, 212, 219, 227, 228, 234, 246, 247, 248 Grande Halle de la Villette14, 121, 122, 129, 130, 145 Michael C. Carlos Museum of Atlanta ... 169, 207 Musée archéologique d’Hurghada 10, 59, 60 Musée archéologique d’Ismâ‘îliyya . 102, 247 Musée archéologique de Kafr al-Shaykh .... 9 Musée archéologique de la Bibliotheca Alexandrina ......................................... 247 Musée archéologique de la Nouvelle Vallée ............................................................ 248 Musée archéologique de Mallawî ..... 20, 247 Musée archéologique de Marsa Matrûh ..... 9 Musée archéologique de Rosette ........... 248 Musée archéologique de Sharm al-Shaykh 9, 10, 99 BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Musée archéologique de Suhâg .... 9, 25, 26, 156, 158, 159, 247 Musée archéologique de Tantâ .. 9, 219, 220 Musée Atonien............................ 10, 67, 247 Musée Copte . 104, 105, 120, 143, 144, 158, 212, 213, 215, 247 Musée d’Art islamique . 20, 22, 23, 104, 158, 159, 247 Musée de Kom Ûshîm ............................. 247 Musée de la Barque de Chéops ............. 247 Musée de la Nubie ................................. 247 Musée de la Pointe-à-Callière................. 221 Musée de Plein Air17, 27, 28, 48, 49, 50, 74, 75, 102, 140, 193, 208 Musée des Carrosses royaux .................... 10 Musée des Textiles égyptiens ... 39, 40, 158, 160, 161, 162, 179, 247 Musée du Louvre . 27, 77, 79, 145, 146, 163, 228, 229 Musée Égyptien 9, 14, 15, 18, 25, 27, 34, 38, 39, 51, 60, 61, 62, 68, 69, 77, 79, 81, 89, 90, 92, 99, 104, 105, 106, 111, 115, 119, 121, 123, 125, 126, 131, 136, 139, 145, 151, 152, 158, 160, 161, 162, 177, 178, 179, 180, 187, 189, 190, 191, 192, 194, 195, 197, 198, 199, 201, 202, 203, 206, 207, 208, 210, 211, 219, 220, 221, 227, 228, 229, 230, 231, 232, 233, 234, 242, 246, 247, 248 Musée Erwin ROMMEL.............................. 247 Musée GAYER-ANDERSON 187, 190, 191, 220, 221, 247 Musée gréco-romain ... 10, 74, 100, 104, 192 Musée Manyal ......................................... 140 Musée national de la Civilisation égyptienne (NMEC) . 10, 111, 118, 131, 162, 195, 203, 206, 207, 208, 210, 228, 230, 231, 232, 247 Musée national de Rio de Janeiro .......... 180 Musée Whanganui .................................. 204 Museo Egizio di Torino .... 27, 109, 194, 221, 229 Museo Tattile Statale Omera .................. 232 National Geographic Museum........ 221, 223 National Museum of Scotland ...... 12, 13, 37 Neues Museum ....................................... 202 Rijksmuseum van Oudheden .................. 221 The Field Museum of Chicago ................ 123 The Metropolitan Museum of Art 39, 78, 79, 80, 89, 92, 145 258 Index Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) ........... 83 Muséologie 9, 10, 99, 108, 109, 110, 111, 116, 207, 229, 232, 238, 244, 246 Musique ..... 42, 61, 66, 97, 122, 129, 131, 145, 212, 215, 225 Instruments de musique Trompette ........................................... 122 N Naos ............................................................. 91 Nappe phréatique ...................................... 193 National Geographic Society ...... 94, 108, 221, 222, 223 National Organisation for Urban Harmony (NOUH) ............................................. 29, 250 Navire ................................................... 72, 127 Nécropoles .. 30, 40, 51, 66, 70, 71, 80, 89, 92, 102, 113, 129, 159, 160, 162, 163, 164, 166, 167, 182, 192 Nécropole al-Bâgawât ................ 39, 40, 235 Nécropole de Saqqâra ............. 71, 163, 198 Nécropole de Tûna al-Gabal .................... 65 Nécropole thébaine ........ 166, 168, 195, 202 Niche .............................................. 29, 65, 184 Nil .... 18, 21, 24, 26, 34, 37, 44, 47, 54, 55, 65, 67, 68, 72, 74, 75, 96, 97, 99, 100, 117, 129, 132, 133, 145, 146, 147, 175, 198, 208, 219, 227, 247 Noms de lieux Afghanistan ............................................. 108 Allemagne .... 10, 18, 31, 56, 67, 77, 94, 134, 138, 147, 170, 186, 187, 197, 198, 199, 224, 229, 232 Bavière ................................................ 147 Berlin .. 10, 27, 77, 79, 105, 106, 147, 186, 187, 202, 229 Hildesheim ...................................... 67, 79 Marburg ...................................... 186, 187 Munich........................................... 56, 224 Arabie saoudite........................... 26, 27, 176 La Mecque........................................... 143 Argentine .................................................. 81 Cordoba ................................................ 81 Australie .............................. 14, 87, 123, 145 Canberra ............................................... 87 Sydney ......................................... 123, 145 Autriche .................................. 116, 170, 188 Belgique...................... 13, 90, 134, 138, 225 Bruxelles .............................................. 221 Brésil ............................................... 134, 180 Rio de Janeiro ..................................... 180 BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Canada.............................. 14, 217, 218, 223 Montréal .............................................. 221 Ontario ........................................ 217, 218 Chine..................... 21, 65, 77, 155, 171, 198 Hong Kong .......................................... 155 Shanghai.............................................. 155 Commonwealth of Nations ..................... 226 Confédération Suisse ........ 87, 124, 125, 170 Berne ........................................... 124, 125 Genève .......................................... 84, 155 Corée du Sud ............................ 14, 123, 134 Écosse ........................................... 12, 13, 37 Édimbourg ...................................... 12, 37 Égypte Alexandrie .. 10, 21, 24, 32, 33, 37, 40, 41, 42, 43, 73, 74, 76, 100, 101, 102, 103, 104, 106, 117, 125, 126, 127, 139, 150, 156, 192, 193, 205, 206, 234, 239, 240, 241, 242, 243, 246, 249, 250, 251 Abû Mînâ ....................... 30, 31, 32, 159 Abûqîr ................................ 74, 234, 243 al-‘Âmiriyya .......................... 32, 33, 244 al-Manshiyya ...................................... 73 al-Wardiyân ...................................... 192 Burg al-‘Arab ................................... 240 Kom al-Shuqâfa ...... 101, 102, 125, 156, 192, 193, 242 Taposiris Magna .................... 40, 41, 43 Delta ..... 9, 44, 47, 58, 137, 166, 188, 192, 219, 239, 240, 244, 245, 246 al-Buhayra ..... 21, 46, 47, 154, 218, 219, 240, 241, 242, 244, 249 Abû al-Matâmîr .............................. 46 Damanhûr .................................... 154 Rosette 40, 77, 79, 183, 238, 243, 248 Tell al-Abqa‘în .............................. 218 Wâdî al-Natrûn ....................... 21, 153 al-Daqahliyya ....... 29, 44, 239, 240, 241 Kom al-Khilgân ............................... 44 Tell al-Samâra................................. 44 al-Gharbiyya.. 9, 21, 154, 220, 239, 241, 242, 243, 249 Samannûd ...................................... 21 Tantâ .......................... 9, 24, 219, 220 al-Ismâ‘îliyya... 15, 49, 73, 102, 247, 250 al-Mansûra ................................. 24, 249 al-Munûfiyya ... 136, 188, 205, 239, 246, 250 Qwisnâ ......................................... 136 al-Qalyûbiyya ................... 240, 244, 250 259 Index al-Sharqiyya ...... 21, 154, 162, 217, 230, 244, 250 Tanis 58, 162, 163, 210, 217, 228, 230 Tell Basta .................................... 9, 21 al-Zaqâzîq ................................ 210, 248 Damiette ............................ 24, 239, 245 Kafr al-Shaykh . 9, 21, 92, 110, 136, 154, 220, 245, 246, 249 Tell al-Farâ‘în ............................ 9, 246 Gîza 12, 13, 30, 35, 40, 48, 49, 50, 51, 53, 55, 56, 58, 62, 71, 78, 80, 81, 88, 103, 104, 112, 117, 121, 123, 125, 145, 157, 159, 169, 178, 179, 180, 181, 182, 198, 199, 208, 209, 210, 226, 228, 238, 239, 240, 242, 243, 244, 246, 249 Abûsîr ...................................... 153, 165 al-Lisht ............................................. 244 Dahshûr30, 56, 104, 117, 159, 165, 244, 246 Memphis ........................ 30, 49, 55, 159 Mît Rahîna ............ 49, 50, 112, 238, 241 Nazlat al-Sammân ............ 50, 51, 54, 62 Saqqâra..... 15, 20, 35, 71, 74, 104, 108, 117, 135, 137, 138, 153, 163, 164, 165, 166, 196, 197, 198, 204, 245 Sérapéum ....................................... 74 Haute-Égypte ... 18, 24, 28, 45, 64, 68, 74, 75, 97, 134, 148, 156, 158, 168, 183 Aswân 13, 18, 34, 38, 44, 45, 55, 57, 68, 91, 92, 97, 98, 116, 117, 125, 132, 133, 150, 156, 157, 171, 172, 174, 175, 177, 184, 185, 193, 197, 198, 238, 239, 247, 249 Abû Simbil. 30, 57, 58, 68, 69, 97, 98, 104, 116, 117, 134, 159, 198, 239, 242 Gabal al-Silsila ..... 32, 38, 91, 99, 100, 132, 133 Idfû ............................... 116, 125, 245 Kalâbsha ................................. 98, 177 Kum Umbû .. 101, 116, 125, 132, 133, 156, 193, 231 Philæ ...................... 30, 104, 116, 159 Qubbat al-Hawâ ....................... 44, 45 Subayra ........................................ 184 Asyût 16, 18, 20, 21, 103, 137, 153, 182, 183, 184, 239, 242, 243, 244, 250 Minqabâd ........................... 18, 19, 20 Louqsor ... 13, 16, 17, 18, 21, 28, 45, 46, 48, 64, 69, 75, 77, 84, 87, 89, 92, 95, BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 96, 111, 113, 115, 129, 144, 145, 146, 150, 155, 164, 166, 167, 168, 172, 173, 174, 178, 195, 197, 198, 203, 205, 208, 216, 217, 224, 231, 239, 243, 244, 245, 249, 250 al-‘Asâsîf ........................... 89, 92, 164 al-Dayr al-Baharî .... 93, 178, 195, 207, 229 al-Qurna ................................. 84, 239 al-Tûd ........................................... 246 Dayr al-Madîna ..................... 222, 223 Dhirâ‘ Abû al-Nagâ ..... 164, 166, 167, 168, 174, 197 Isnâ ................... 21, 77, 111, 112, 239 al-Gabalayn .............................. 100 Karnak . 17, 21, 48, 64, 68, 69, 91, 99, 104, 113, 117, 125, 133, 173, 174, 205, 208, 216, 217, 224, 226, 238, 239, 244, 245 Nag‘ Abû ‘Usba ................ 216, 217 Kom al-Hîtân ............................ 56, 57 Madînat Hâbû .............................. 133 Thèbes ..................... 30, 57, 159, 195 Nubie .. 91, 98, 116, 133, 161, 177, 238, 242, 247 Qinâ .... 27, 60, 239, 240, 241, 243, 245, 249 Dandara ..................... 27, 28, 79, 133 Le Caire .. 9, 10, 12, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 27, 30, 32, 36, 38, 39, 48, 49, 57, 58, 62, 63, 73, 74, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 89, 90, 104, 105, 111, 112, 120, 131, 132, 134, 135, 138, 139, 141, 142, 143, 149, 150, 151, 152, 153, 154, 158, 159, 160, 161, 163, 175, 176, 180, 182, 187, 188, 189, 190, 194, 195, 202, 203, 204, 205, 206, 207, 208, 209, 210, 211, 224, 225, 228, 229, 231, 232, 238, 239, 240, 241, 242, 243, 244, 245, 246, 248, 249, 250 al-Basâtîn ..................................... 86, 87 al-Darb al-Ahmar ............... 36, 238, 245 al-Fustât .... 10, 111, 118, 131, 195, 196, 203, 206, 207, 208, 230, 238, 241, 245 al-Gamâliyya ............................ 140, 243 al-Khalîfa ............................ 49, 141, 240 Bâb al-Khalq .......... 21, 23, 24, 158, 182 Darb al-Labbâna .......................... 82, 84 Héliopolis ....... 48, 49, 55, 211, 225, 226 Hilwân .................... 48, 80, 81, 142, 248 260 Index Ma‘âdî ................................ 21, 153, 154 Matariyya ...... 9, 21, 212, 225, 239, 241, 242, 247 Sayyida Zaynab ................ 190, 221, 240 Shubrâ ............................................. 240 Vieux-Caire ...... 104, 158, 207, 244, 245 Zamâlik .................................... 119, 120 Moyenne-Égypte ................... 18, 189, 240 Banî Swayf ................. 70, 239, 248, 250 Fayyûm ..... 30, 51, 55, 60, 62, 160, 186, 201, 210, 227, 228, 235, 236, 238, 241, 245, 248, 249 al-Lâhûn................................ 235, 236 Kom al-Kharâba al-Kabîr, Girzâ .... 201 Kom Ûshîm ................... 201, 244, 247 Tebtynis.................... 60, 61, 160, 201 Wâdî al-Hîtân ......................... 30, 159 Minyâ 10, 20, 21, 35, 38, 64, 65, 67, 68, 82, 135, 150, 151, 152, 153, 160, 208, 214, 241, 242, 248, 250 al-Amarna ..... 55, 66, 67, 88, 202, 239 al-Ashmûnayn (Hermopolis Magna) ............................................ 21, 189 al-Bahnasâ .................................... 245 Banî Hasan ..................................... 67 Banî Mazâr ................................... 208 Hatnûb ........................................... 55 Mallawî ........................... 20, 238, 247 Tûna al-Gabal ...... 35, 65, 66, 68, 160, 178, 187, 189, 190, 213, 214, 240 Suhâg ...... 9, 25, 26, 38, 74, 75, 76, 133, 134, 148, 149, 151, 156, 157, 158, 198, 240, 245, 247, 248, 249 Abîdus . 133, 149, 156, 157, 158, 197, 240 Akhmîm . 18, 38, 74, 75, 76, 149, 151, 156, 158, 169 al-Diyâbât ............................. 148, 156 Athribis ......................................... 157 Nouvelle-Vallée ........................... 137, 235 al-Dâkhla .......................................... 242 al-Khârga ................................. 137, 235 Port Sa‘îd ............................... 64, 100, 161 Sinaï ...... 9, 20, 21, 24, 26, 30, 71, 72, 154, 161, 185, 201, 215, 238, 241, 243, 244, 246, 250 Nord-Sinaï ............ 20, 72, 200, 201, 241 Tell Abû Sayfî ........................... 71, 72 Tell al-Kidwa ................. 199, 200, 201 BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Sud-Sinaï .......... 185, 241, 243, 244, 250 Halâyyib ....................................... 161 Sirâbît al-Khâdim .......................... 244 Suez 14, 15, 26, 54, 64, 83, 100, 120, 199, 242, 243 ‘Ayn al-Sukhna ................................. 209 Wâdî al-Garf........................... 52, 54, 55 Émirats arabes unis ................................. 155 Chardja .................................................. 22 Espagne ...................... 31, 65, 117, 197, 224 États-Unis . 12, 14, 18, 41, 53, 56, 77, 78, 80, 94, 101, 113, 120, 125, 127, 128, 129, 145, 155, 156, 170, 173, 193, 196, 199, 207, 222 Atlanta ......................................... 169, 207 California ............................... 14, 145, 169 Chicago ................................. 53, 123, 173 Los Angeles ...... 54, 62, 95, 120, 122, 123, 129, 145 Manhattan ....................................... 78, 79 Michigan .............................................. 235 New York ......... 78, 80, 133, 145, 154, 155 Philadelphia ......................................... 123 Virginia .................................................. 54 Washington ................. 108, 123, 193, 221 Éthiopie............................................. 68, 107 France 14, 31, 53, 57, 58, 60, 74, 76, 89, 92, 103, 107, 114, 122, 127, 128, 131, 134, 138, 161, 162, 163, 170, 199, 229 Grenoble ............................................. 106 Paris .... 14, 23, 27, 56, 107, 120, 121, 122, 123, 126, 127, 128, 129, 131, 132, 145, 147, 155, 161, 217, 235 Grèce ............................ 47, 65, 77, 117, 171 Hongrie ................................................... 134 Inde ......................... 155, 171, 175, 198, 225 Iran .......................................................... 162 Israël ............................................. 25, 53, 87 Jérusalem .............................................. 23 Italie ..... 18, 40, 68, 117, 120, 134, 138, 170, 194, 196, 197, 198, 199, 210, 221, 229, 232 Ancona ................................................ 232 Florence ................................................ 83 Milan.................................................... 155 Rome ..................... 40, 41, 42, 43, 87, 223 Turin .......... 27, 52, 68, 109, 194, 221, 229 Japon ...... 12, 14, 62, 77, 180, 211, 219, 234 Kanazawa ............................................ 234 Osaka .................................................. 123 261 Index Tokyo................................................... 123 Jordanie .................................................. 171 Mali ......................................................... 161 Malte ................................................. 65, 134 Maroc ...................................................... 161 Mexique Mexico ......................................... 134, 171 Nouvelle-Zélande ........................... 204, 205 Wellington ..................................... 54, 204 Palestine............................ 20, 117, 161, 171 Pays-Bas .............................. 70, 71, 134, 229 Amsterdam .............................. 70, 71, 155 Pologne................................................... 170 Principauté de Monaco ........................... 169 République dominicaine ........................... 40 République Tchèque ........ 65, 112, 134, 152 Prague ......................................... 153, 164 Royaume-Uni ..... 17, 31, 124, 197, 198, 199, 202, 224, 229 Londres .... 16, 17, 22, 24, 27, 77, 82, 123, 131, 145, 155, 172, 223, 224, 226, 227, 229 Russie .............................................. 134, 155 Soudan .............................. 68, 120, 161, 171 Suède ................................................ 32, 134 Sultanat d’Oman ..................................... 126 Syrie ........................................ 108, 191, 222 Tunisie..................................................... 161 Turquie ............................ 18, 31, 60, 84, 199 Union Européenne .................. 134, 138, 229 Noms de personnes ‘Abbâs (al-Tayyib) ................... 178, 179, 247 ‘Abd al-‘Azîz (Muhammad) 85, 141, 149, 182, 225, 242 ‘Abd al-Basîr (al-Husayn) ......................... 247 ‘Abd al-Galîl (Muhammad) ...................... 177 ‘Abd al-Gawwâd (Sha‘bân)12, 17, 37, 70, 87, 124, 147, 223, 245 ‘Abd al-Maqsûd (Muhammad) ................ 243 ‘Abd al-Nâsir (Gamâl)................ 83, 120, 240 ‘Abd al-Râziq (Sabâh) ... 18, 38, 61, 139, 162, 191, 206, 229, 231, 233, 248 ‘Awad (Muhammad) ................................ 242 ‘Azab (Khâlid) .................................. 207, 247 ‘Ukâsha (Ashraf)....................................... 240 ‘Ukâsha (Tharwat) ...................................... 23 ‘Uthmân (Mamdûh) ................................. 159 Abû al-‘Azm (Hânî) .................................. 241 Abû al-‘Ilâ (Wa‘d)99, 101, 156, 193, 219, 246 Abû al-Khayr (Usâma)...................... 246, 248 BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 al-‘Ashmâwî (Ashraf) .................................. 46 al-‘Ashmâwî (Ayman) 29, 33, 44, 70, 77, 134, 171, 175, 218, 240 al-‘Awadî (Târiq) ...................................... 123 al-‘Inânî (Khâlid) 9, 10, 15, 21, 25, 27, 28, 32, 35, 36, 45, 47, 51, 57, 59, 60, 64, 65, 66, 68, 71, 77, 78, 79, 80, 81, 95, 97, 101, 102, 112, 113, 116, 121, 123, 125, 126, 127, 129, 131, 134, 135, 138, 139, 149, 151, 152, 153, 156, 157, 158, 159, 160, 161, 162, 163, 164,166, 170, 174, 178, 180, 182, 187, 193, 204, 217, 218, 227, 228, 229, 232, 233, 235, 236, 242 al-Damâtî (Mamdûh) ............................... 248 al-Kahlâwî (Muhammad).......................... 250 al-Kasabânî (Mukhtâr) ..................... 244, 249 al-Laythî (Hishâm) .................................... 241 al-Nabrâwî (Ra’fat) ........................... 249, 251 al-Nimr (Ahmad)...................................... 239 al-Saghîr (Mustafa) .......... 17, 21, 64, 69, 244 al-Sâwî (Ahmad) ........................................ 54 al-Shâzlî (Yâsmîn)....................................... 30 al-Siddîq (Wafâ’) ........................................ 25 al-Simistâwî (Gamâl) ........................ 213, 240 al-Sîsî (‘Abd al-Fattâh) 15, 33, 57, 58, 97, 98, 116, 158, 167, 170 al-Tîbî (‘Amr) ........................................... 238 Amîn (Mustafa) .................................. 36, 244 Babraj (Krzysztof)..................................... 206 Badîr (Muhammad) ................................. 243 Bárta (Miroslav) ....................................... 152 Belzoni (Giovanni) ................................... 203 Bokova (Irina) .......................................... 231 Bommas (Martin) ....................................... 45 Bonaparte (Napoléon) ............................ 119 Borchardt (Ludwig) .................................. 202 Breccia (Evaristo) ..................................... 192 Camp (Fredrica) ...................................... 168 Carter (Howard) 14, 45, 63, 93, 95, 113, 129, 145 Champollion (Jean-François) .................. 131 Chang (Ruey-Lin) ..................................... 201 Coulon (Laurent) ..................................... 217 Creswell (Keppel Archibald Cameron) 82, 83 De Lesseps (Ferdinand) .............. 15, 64, 100 Empain (Édouard Louis Joseph) .... 216, 225, 226, 242 Fathî (Hasan) ................................. 82, 83, 84 Fletcher (Joann) .............................. 124, 202 Gallazzi (Claudio) .............................. 61, 201 262 Index Goddio (Franck) ...................................... 126 Hanna (Monica) ......................................... 86 Hawwâs (Zâhî) 11, 12, 13, 40, 42, 43, 45, 51, 56, 63, 64, 76, 77, 88, 89, 92, 97, 113, 114, 115, 147, 150, 152, 161, 167, 169, 170, 174, 180, 181, 182, 194, 195, 196, 198, 201, 203, 204, 207, 208, 211, 224 Haykal (Fâyza) ......................................... 248 Hérodote ........................................ 126, 127 Ibrâhîm (Muhammad) ...................... 167, 243 Jacquemart (Henri-Alfred)......................... 73 Johnson (Ray) .......................................... 172 Kawai (Nozomu) ...................................... 234 Khidr (Nâdya) ............ 33, 192, 201, 219, 244 Lam‘î (Sâlih) ............................................. 251 Lauer (Jean-Philippe) ................................ 11 Lehner (Mark) ...................................... 55, 56 Lord CARNARVON ....................... 93, 146, 147 Loret (Victor) ........................................... 202 Mabrûk (Mahmûd)............................... 9, 232 Mariette (Auguste) .................................... 74 Martin (Geoffrey) ..................................... 203 Martinez (Kathleen) ................................... 40 Maspero (Gaston) ............................. 50, 104 Mitwallî (Muhammad) ............................. 243 Monreal (Luis)............................................ 94 Mubârak (Husnî) ...................................... 150 Muhyî al-Dîn (Ashraf) ....... 177, 179, 181, 240 Mustafa (Gamâl) ... 14, 20, 89, 157, 183, 185, 186, 235, 240 Nilsson (Maria) .......................................... 91 Peng (Shih-Fu) ......................................... 210 Petrie (William Matthew Flinders) ........... 156 Piacentini (Patrizia) .......................... 171, 175 Pirelli (Rosanna) ................................... 19, 20 Plutarque....................................... 41, 42, 43 Qutb (‘Abd al-Hamîd) ....................... 92, 245 Radwân (‘Alî) ..................................... 56, 250 Rayhân (‘Abd al-Rahîm) ........................... 238 Reeves (Nicholas) .................................... 202 Rommel (Erwin) ....................................... 247 Rushdî (Mustafa)...................................... 244 Sa‘îd (Mahrûs) ................................. 242, 247 Salâh al-Dîn (Ilhâm) 9, 18, 26, 38, 59, 60, 67, 100, 123, 158, 160, 212, 215, 247 Sâlih (Fathî).............................................. 250 Sourouzian (Hourig) .................................. 57 Stadelmann (Rainer) ............................ 56, 57 Strabon ................................................... 157 Sunbul (Gharîb) ............... 103, 192, 226, 240 BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Tallet (Pierre) ............................................. 55 Tawfîq (Târiq) ........................ 62, 69, 81, 178 von Pilgrim (Cornelius) .............................. 31 Ward (John)............................................... 91 Wazîrî (Mustafa).... 10, 14, 16, 17, 27, 28, 32, 33, 34, 35, 44, 45, 46, 64, 65, 69, 70, 71, 72, 75, 78, 80, 91, 95, 101, 102, 111, 113, 117, 118, 119, 133, 136, 138, 139, 148, 150, 151, 152, 164, 166, 167, 168, 171, 174, 175, 181, 185, 193, 200, 224, 236, 244 Weinstein (Carmen)................................... 87 Zaydân (‘Isa) ............ 123, 212, 219, 234, 247 Nourrice .............................................. 197, 207 Nouvelle capitale administrative égyptienne ................................................ 47, 49, 50, 58 Numérisation ...................... 107, 108, 186, 187 O Oasis al-Bahariyya al-Bâwîtî ............................................... 208 al-Dâkhla ....................... 28, 29, 36, 241, 245 Bîr al-Shaghâla ................................ 28, 29 Mût .................................................. 28, 37 al-Farâfra ................................................. 245 al-Khârga ........................... 39, 239, 242, 243 Sîwa................................................... 35, 198 Obélisques 9, 58, 91, 100, 132, 172, 173, 210, 227, 247 Offrande ............................................... 70, 189 Oiseaux......... 33, 51, 67, 93, 94, 148, 168, 174 Aigle........................................................ 148 Autruche ........................................... 26, 122 Faucon ...................................... 91, 148, 185 Ibis .......................................................... 189 Onguent ....................................................... 61 Organisations internationales Organisation islamique pour l’Éducation, les Sciences et la Culture (ISESCO) .......... 157 United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) ... 24, 29, 30, 31, 68, 69, 86, 116, 159, 223, 228, 229, 231, 235, 250 United States Agency for International Development (USAID) . 101, 125, 156, 193 Osiréion ...................................... 156, 157, 197 Ossements ... 18, 33, 38, 52, 72, 204, 213, 214, 219, 236 Ostraca ......................................................... 65 Ostracon ..................................................... 168 263 Index Ouchebti 35, 60, 122, 147, 166, 167, 168, 222, 236 P Pain ............................................................. 212 Palais 19, 23, 41, 48, 49, 55, 57, 66, 72, 73, 95, 103, 119, 133, 134, 135, 138, 139, 140, 145, 164, 187, 188, 190, 195, 216, 225, 226, 240, 242, 246, 247, 248 Palais ‘Â’isha Fahmî ............................ 72, 73 Palais ‘Âbidîn ............ 23, 134, 135, 138, 139 Palais Alexan ........................................... 103 Palais du baron Empain .................. 216, 242 Palais Khadîga Hânim ............................... 48 Palais Manyal .......... 140, 187, 188, 246, 248 Palais Muhammad ‘Alî ............................ 240 Palais Muntazah ...................................... 139 Palette de Narmer ...................................... 232 Papyrus ...... 22, 23, 24, 55, 61, 65, 67, 70, 127, 161, 168, 175, 189, 190, 194, 195, 246 Parfum .................... 61, 85, 140, 141, 222, 223 Parlement ..................................................... 73 Particuliers Hémiounou ............................................... 79 Jules César .................................... 40, 41, 42 Khuwy ..................... 137, 163, 164, 165, 166 Marc Antoine ................................ 40, 41, 42 Merer ........................................................ 55 Nekaw-Ptah ............................................... 71 Shedsu-Djehuty....................................... 166 Touya .......................................................... 9 Youya .......................................................... 9 Peinture . 19, 42, 63, 74, 87, 88, 110, 119, 120, 163, 188, 220 Pèlerinage .......................... 11, 20, 31, 32, 143 Perle ........................................................... 141 Phares ........................................................... 73 Pierre de Rosette .................................... 40, 77 Pierres .... 11, 12, 13, 17, 19, 21, 23, 27, 28, 33, 35, 37, 40, 43, 44, 52, 53, 55, 65, 67, 74, 75, 79, 92, 100, 106, 112, 117, 129, 130, 132, 133, 144, 161, 168, 171, 175, 177, 182, 184, 185, 192, 227, 232, 236 Agate ...................................................... 141 Calcaire .... 13, 29, 31, 46, 53, 55, 67, 70, 71, 75, 100, 105, 134, 136, 137, 148, 152, 157, 158, 164, 165, 168, 181, 193, 202, 206, 212, 236 Granodiorite ........................................... 173 Grès ............................ 68, 91, 100, 133, 134 Pigment ...................................................... 169 BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Pipe ...................................................... 30, 101 Places publiques Place al-Rimâya ................. 69, 123, 209, 210 Plateau de Gîza ..... 48, 50, 53, 55, 58, 78, 103, 104, 117, 121, 145, 157, 179, 180, 181, 182, 207, 208, 209, 246 Pluie ............................................ 101, 162, 193 Poissons ............................ 33, 52, 72, 147, 219 Polémique ........................................ 14, 26, 85 Polices ... 50, 62, 70, 80, 82, 92, 110, 186, 208, 235 Organisation internationale de police criminelle (INTERPOL) ......................... 224 Police du Tourisme et des Antiquités 34, 35, 60, 62, 82, 123, 148, 186, 212, 249 Porcelaine ........................................... 190, 191 Ports ......... 26, 55, 76, 117, 126, 132, 133, 239 Poterie ..... 31, 33, 34, 35, 44, 45, 61, 117, 147, 160, 168, 172, 213, 219, 222 Presse Ahram Online . 12, 13, 17, 28, 29, 35, 44, 45, 46, 47, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 78, 80, 87, 89, 90, 91, 100, 102, 104, 117, 120, 133, 134, 135, 136, 138, 148, 152, 166, 167, 170, 172, 173, 182, 185, 229, 231, 232, 233, 234, 237 Akhbâr al-Yawm ...................................... 153 al-Ahrâm .. 17, 25, 28, 34, 46, 47, 48, 49, 60, 62, 64, 68, 71, 72, 80, 87, 90, 102, 112, 117, 123, 124, 125, 126, 127, 132, 133, 135, 137, 144, 147, 151, 153, 155, 159, 160, 162, 170, 171, 182, 184, 185, 186, 191, 201, 205, 206, 208, 212, 214, 216, 217, 220, 221, 224, 226, 228, 229, 230, 231, 234, 237 al-Ahrâm al-‘Arabî ................................... 214 Al-Ahram Hebdo .. 10, 13, 16, 18, 20, 21, 25, 28, 29, 37, 38, 40, 47, 50, 57, 62, 64, 68, 74, 85, 92, 105, 107, 108, 109, 111, 117, 128, 132, 137, 141, 143, 144, 149, 151, 166, 167, 174, 180, 182, 184, 188, 190, 191, 192, 194, 201, 208, 223 Al-Ahram Weekly . 12, 22, 25, 30, 32, 43, 50, 51, 56, 57, 58, 65, 68, 75, 76, 80, 85, 86, 97, 98, 115, 123, 130, 132, 145, 147, 158, 164, 166, 174, 181, 182, 184, 195, 196, 198, 204, 209, 211, 212, 223, 224, 225, 226 al-Bawwâba News ................... 188, 190, 217 al-Dustûr . 119, 151, 159, 166, 167, 172, 176 264 Index al-Fagr ............................................. 162, 191 al-Masrî al-Yawm .. 14, 15, 16, 17, 25, 26, 28, 29, 32, 33, 38, 40, 45, 46, 47, 48, 51, 60, 61, 62, 64, 68, 69, 71, 72, 76, 77, 80, 86, 91, 100, 102, 104, 109, 112, 117, 119, 125, 126, 127, 132, 133, 136, 137, 147, 148, 151, 159, 160, 162, 163, 169, 170, 171, 174, 177, 179, 180, 182, 184, 198, 201, 205, 208, 213, 214, 217, 219, 224, 229, 230, 231, 237 al-Shurûq 16, 48, 62, 71, 112, 119, 124, 125, 133, 145, 185, 186, 208, 219, 221, 227, 228, 229, 232 al-Tahrîr ................................................... 172 al-Wafd ............. 15, 116, 144, 190, 191, 217 al-Watan16, 49, 80, 124, 125, 132, 152, 166, 177, 190, 211, 212, 216, 217 al-Yawm al-Sâbi‘... 10, 13, 14, 15, 17, 18, 21, 26, 28, 29, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 44, 45, 47, 51, 60, 62, 64, 68, 70, 71, 72, 76, 77, 78, 80, 81, 87, 88, 89, 90, 92, 98, 99, 100, 101, 103, 104, 109, 112, 116, 117, 123, 124, 125, 126, 132, 133, 135, 137, 140, 144, 148, 151, 153, 155, 159, 160, 161, 162, 163, 169, 170, 171, 174, 177, 179, 180, 182, 184, 185, 186, 187, 190, 196, 199, 201, 206, 208, 213, 214, 216, 217, 219, 220, 224, 226, 227, 230, 231, 233, 234, 235, 237 Egypt Independent .... 13, 15, 17, 25, 27, 29, 36, 38, 43, 44, 46, 47, 49, 62, 68, 69, 72, 77, 80, 87, 89, 92, 98, 102, 106, 109, 117, 118, 124, 126, 127, 133, 134, 137, 139, 151, 152, 155, 160, 161, 166, 168, 170, 174, 176, 177, 178, 182, 186, 201, 206, 208 Egypt Today .. 13, 17, 18, 25, 27, 28, 33, 34, 35, 36, 38, 45, 62, 69, 76, 77, 78, 80, 81, 82, 87, 88, 89, 90, 92, 97, 98, 99, 100, 116, 117, 123, 125, 134, 137, 139, 140, 148, 149, 150, 151, 153, 155, 159, 160, 162, 166, 167, 169, 171, 174, 175, 179, 182, 187, 192, 201, 205, 208, 211, 213, 214, 215, 218, 219, 220, 221, 224, 226, 227, 228, 230, 232, 233, 234, 235, 237 Egyptian Streets ... 14, 17, 27, 28, 29, 44, 45, 47, 59, 68, 80, 87, 138, 150, 154, 166, 167, 199, 208, 215, 220, 221, 224, 237 Masrâwî ............. 15, 179, 216, 217, 219, 230 Ruz al-Yûsuf ..................................... 125, 135 BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Sada al-Balad . 14, 15, 18, 21, 26, 27, 28, 29, 32, 33, 36, 37, 40, 43, 44, 47, 48, 50, 62, 64, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 76, 77, 78, 80, 81, 86, 87, 90, 92, 101, 102, 103, 104, 108, 112, 116, 117, 119, 120, 125, 126, 132, 135, 137, 145, 147, 151, 153, 155, 159, 160, 161, 163,170, 174, 177, 179, 180, 182, 184, 185, 186, 189, 194, 196, 208, 211, 212, 215, 216, 219, 220, 221, 224, 230, 231, 232, 233, 234, 235, 237 Vetogate . 119, 124, 151, 159, 191, 217, 230 Watanî 13, 29, 34, 36, 37, 44, 45, 47, 62, 72, 78, 81, 87, 90, 92, 109, 124, 125, 126, 133, 137, 147, 155, 161, 171, 172, 186, 189, 201, 215, 216, 227, 229, 233, 237 Pressoirs ................................................. 20, 47 Pressoir à vin ............................................. 47 Prêtres ... 35, 54, 55, 66, 78, 79, 146, 147, 152, 164, 181, 182, 189, 195 Behnui-Ka ............................................... 181 Nedjemankh ................................. 78, 79, 80 Nwi .......................................................... 181 Pétosiris................................................... 189 Prêtresses Hetpet ....................................................... 35 Procession ............................................ 43, 168 Projets Egyptian Mummies Project ............. 195, 203 Gîza Plateau Development Project . 179, 209 Historic Cairo Rehabilitation Project (HCRP) ...................................... 85, 149, 225, 242 Qubbat al-Hawâ Research Project (QHRP) ........................................................ 44, 45 Puits .............................................. 68, 137, 193 Pylône ....................... 16, 43, 75, 164, 172, 173 Pyramides .... 13, 15, 29, 37, 52, 54, 70, 71, 77, 78, 81, 88, 103, 104, 124, 137, 138, 159, 161, 164, 165, 170, 177, 182, 207, 227, 228, 236, 237, 246 Pyramide al-Lâhûn .......................... 235, 236 Pyramide de Chéops . 10, 11, 12, 13, 37, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 62, 77, 96, 177, 199 Pyramide de Chéphren ....................... 13, 77 Pyramide de Djoser ........................ 165, 197 Pyramide de Meïdoum ............................. 70 Pyramide de Mykérinos ............................ 13 Pyramidion.................................................... 91 Q Qibla ........................................................... 184 265 Index R Radars ..................................................... 11, 12 Radiations Rayons laser .............................................. 12 Rayons X ................... 90, 176, 186, 202, 234 Réaménagement ... 9, 10, 28, 48, 64, 101, 109, 117, 142, 163, 177, 179, 186, 207, 216, 217, 229, 230 Réfectoires .............................................. 19, 20 Relique ................................................. 31, 228 Réplique archéologique ..... 59, 63, 93, 95, 233 Reptiles Cobra .......................................... 91, 99, 222 Crocodile ................................................ 185 Serpent ................. 26, 75, 93, 141, 150, 225 Réservoir ..................................................... 143 Restauration... 9, 10, 11, 15, 16, 19, 21, 22, 24, 28, 33, 34, 36, 39, 45, 46, 48, 49, 59, 62, 63, 64, 67, 69, 70, 74, 75, 76, 81, 89, 90, 92, 94, 95, 96, 100, 102, 103, 104, 110, 111, 112, 114, 116, 123, 126, 136, 138, 139, 142, 143, 151, 153, 154, 156, 157, 158, 159, 162, 164, 165, 166, 167, 172, 174, 178, 180, 182, 183, 184, 192, 198, 205, 209, 212, 216, 219, 225, 226, 227, 228, 230, 234, 235, 236, 238, 239, 240, 241, 242, 243, 245, 246, 247, 248, 249 Restitution .................... 77, 125, 204, 224, 235 Résurrection................................ 144, 190, 222 Roches Albâtre ...................................... 55, 130, 160 Basalte ...................................... 55, 154, 155 Granit ... 13, 16, 43, 49, 55, 58, 76, 124, 137, 138, 157, 165, 173, 190, 212, 223, 231, 232 Marbre . 68, 73, 87, 119, 122, 139, 141, 184, 210, 223 Quartzite ......................... 113, 223, 224, 229 S Sainte Famille 20, 21, 153, 154, 198, 212, 213, 215 Salles d’enchères Christie’s Inc.... 154, 155, 223, 224, 227, 229 Sandale ....................................................... 222 Sang ..................................................... 39, 229 Sarcophage . 35, 37, 63, 65, 68, 78, 79, 80, 94, 113, 121, 122, 129, 130, 136, 148, 150, 152, 158, 160, 162, 165, 167, 169, 171, 175, 178, 181, 189, 192, 201, 221, 222, 223, 230, 231, 236 BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Sauvetage ..................................................... 32 Sceptre ............................................... 137, 165 Scribes ........................................................ 197 Sérail ................................................... 140, 188 Silo ...................................................... 218, 219 Socle ............................................................. 50 Son et lumière ................ 48, 51, 111, 198, 251 Souveraines Cléopâtre ........ 40, 41, 42, 43, 109, 222, 223 Cléopâtre VII ........................................... 222 Hatchepsout .... 13, 118, 168, 180, 194, 202, 207, 221, 222, 231 Souverains Ahmosis .................................................. 231 Akhenaton.. 10, 66, 67, 68, 88, 94, 118, 170, 194, 201, 203 Alexandre le Grand ............. 21, 41, 175, 234 Amenemhat II ......................... 231, 232, 234 Amenemhat III ........................................ 157 Amenhotep Ier 13, 16, 17, 21, 56, 57, 68, 91, 94, 99, 100, 173, 202, 229, 231 Amenhotep II . 13, 16, 21, 56, 57, 68, 91, 94, 99, 100, 173, 202, 229 Amenhotep III 13, 16, 21, 56, 57, 68, 91, 94, 99, 100, 173, 202 Ay .............................................................. 13 Cambyse ................................................... 16 Caracalla ................................................. 102 Chéchonq III ........................................... 162 Chéops... 11, 12, 13, 37, 52, 54, 55, 70, 123, 163, 177, 198, 219, 227, 242, 247 Chéphren .............................. 13, 69, 77, 181 Djedkarê ................. 137, 138, 163, 165, 166 Djoser...................................................... 197 Empereurs Auguste ..................................... 41, 42, 43 Constantin II .................................... 36, 37 Justinien ................................................ 32 Hadrien ................................................... 139 Horemheb ....................................... 170, 173 Mérenptah ...................................... 211, 212 Mérenrê .................................................. 166 Mykérinos.......................................... 13, 232 Narmer .................................................... 232 Ounas.............................................. 138, 165 Ouserkaf.......................................... 166, 181 Pépi Ier ..................................................... 166 Psammétique Ier .............................. 200, 201 Ptolémée Évergète Ier ............... 40, 168, 234 Ptolémée Évergète II .............................. 168 266 Index Ptolémée IV Philopator ............................. 40 Ptolémée V Épiphane Eucharistos 21, 40, 43, 157 Ptolémée VI ...................................... 21, 157 Ptolémée VIII Évergète II .................. 21, 157 Ptolémée XI ............................................ 157 Ptolémée XII ........................................... 157 Ramsès Ier . 16, 26, 28, 49, 50, 57, 58, 68, 74, 75, 76, 97, 98, 133, 134, 149, 151, 156, 162, 164, 166, 167, 172, 173, 174, 194, 195, 197, 198, 207, 210, 211, 218, 219, 222, 226, 227, 231 Ramsès II .. 16, 26, 28, 49, 50, 57, 58, 68, 74, 75, 76, 97, 98, 133, 134, 149, 151, 156, 162, 164, 166, 167, 172, 173, 174, 194, 195, 197, 198, 207, 210, 211, 218, 219, 222, 226, 227, 231 Séqénenrê............................................... 203 Sésostris Ier .............................................. 237 Sésostris II ............................................... 235 Séthi Ier 13, 56, 133, 156, 157, 195, 197, 231 Smenkhkarê ............................................ 202 Snéfrou...................................................... 70 Souverains musulmans ‘Alî (Muhammad) 58, 73, 74, 95, 119, 120, 127, 135, 140, 141, 187, 188, 240, 243 al-Ayyûbî (al-Nâsir Salâh al-Dîn) .. 132, 244 Ibn Tûlûn (Ahmad) ............................... 190 Ibrâhîm Pacha .................................. 73, 74 Katkhuda (‘Abd al-Rahmân) ......... 142, 143 khédive Ismâ‘îl ................. 23, 73, 141, 187 khédive Tawfîq .................................... 119 Qalâwwûn (al-Nâsir) ............................ 140 Qâytbây (al-Ashraf Abû al-Nasr) . 183, 238, 246 Roi Fârûq Ier ............. 58, 73, 103, 120, 141 Roi Fu’âd Ier ......................................... 119 Shagarat al-Durr .................................. 142 Shaykhûn al-‘Imarî al-Nâsirî ................. 143 Sultan Husayn Kâmil ...................... 74, 226 Thoutmosis Ier.......................................... 231 Thoutmosis II ............................ 13, 124, 222 Thoutmosis III.................................. 124, 231 Toutankhamon . 9, 13, 14, 45, 46, 59, 62, 63, 64, 88, 89, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 99, 100, 106, 113, 114, 115, 120, 121, 122, 123, 126, 127, 128, 129, 130, 131, 132, 145, 146, 147, 170, 177, 178, 180, 194, 195, 196, 197, 202, 203, 204, 210, 223, 224, 226, 227, 228, 229,231, 234 BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 Trajan ...................................................... 139 Sphinx .. 11, 12, 13, 51, 53, 91, 95, 96, 99, 100, 169, 182, 223, 231, 232 Criosphinx ........................................... 91, 99 Statue .... 11, 14, 16, 25, 26, 28, 35, 49, 50, 52, 54, 55, 60, 62, 67, 69, 70, 71, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 79, 81, 82, 91, 97, 98, 99, 100, 102, 108, 119, 120, 122, 124, 125, 126, 129, 130, 135, 146, 147, 149, 151, 154, 155, 160, 161, 166, 167, 168, 169, 172, 173, 174, 181, 189, 190, 193, 207, 221, 223, 225, 226, 227, 231, 234, 236 Statuette .... 121, 122, 129, 136, 169, 172, 174, 175, 189, 190, 191, 197, 222, 236 Stèles .......... 61, 64, 75, 76, 87, 89, 91, 92, 222 Suie ............................................................. 112 Survey ................................... 69, 117, 137, 164 Symposium ............................... 80, 81, 93, 115 T Table d’offrande ......................................... 164 Tell-s Tell Abû Sayfî ...................................... 71, 72 Tell al-‘Amârna .. 55, 66, 67, 68, 88, 202, 239 Tell al-Abqa‘în ......................................... 218 Tell al-Farâ‘în ...................................... 9, 246 Tell al-Farmâ ............................................. 21 Tell al-Kidwa ........................... 199, 200, 201 Tell al-Yahûdiyya ..................................... 246 Tell Basta ...................................... 9, 21, 238 Temples . 14, 16, 17, 21, 26, 27, 28, 34, 35, 40, 41, 43, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 64, 66, 68, 69, 75, 76, 77, 79, 91, 96, 97, 98, 104, 111, 112, 113, 116, 117, 125, 126, 132, 133, 134, 137, 138, 144, 149, 155, 156, 157, 165, 167, 172, 173, 174, 177, 189, 190, 193, 197,198, 205, 211, 225, 229, 231, 238, 239, 241, 242, 243, 245 Temple d’Abû Simbil ........ 57, 58, 69, 97, 98 Temple d’Abydos ................................... 149 Temple d’Amenhotep III ........................... 57 Temple d’Hibis........................................ 242 Temple d’Idfû ......................................... 125 Temple d’Isnâ ..................... 21, 77, 111, 112 Temple d’Opet ....................................... 174 Temple de Dandara ............................ 27, 28 Temple de Kalâbsha ............................... 177 Temple de Karnak...... 17, 21, 104, 125, 173, 205, 208, 224, 238, 245 Temple de Kom Umbû .. 101, 116, 125, 156, 193, 231 267 Index Temple de Louqsor 16, 17, 21, 28, 113, 144, 164, 166, 167, 172, 173, 174, 208, 239, 243 Temple de Montou ............... 21, 64, 69, 241 Temple de Philæ ..................................... 117 Temple de Ramsès II .......................... 97, 98 Temple de Séthi Ier............ 56, 156, 157, 197 Temple de Taposiris Magna ......... 40, 41, 43 Terracotta ..................................................... 61 Textes des Pyramides ......................... 138, 165 Textile .... 39, 40, 119, 142, 143, 158, 161, 229, 235 Coton ...................................................... 162 Laine ................................................. 39, 162 Lin 39, 60, 65, 122, 152, 160, 168, 175, 198, 213, 235 Soie ......................................................... 162 Tikiyya ......................................................... 143 Tombes.. 13, 15, 28, 29, 35, 40, 44, 45, 52, 53, 54, 55, 59, 65, 66, 67, 68, 88, 93, 94, 96, 101, 102, 113, 114, 122, 130, 138, 147, 150, 152, 166, 167, 174, 175, 181, 182, 183, 195, 197, 228, 230, 236 KV35 ................................................. 94, 203 KV55 ......................................................... 94 Tombe d’Amenemhat (TT123) .................. 81 Tombe d’Amenhotep Ier ................... 13, 202 Tombe d’Amenhotep II .................... 13, 202 Tombe de Cléopâtre .................... 40, 41, 43 Tombe de Khuwy ............................ 163, 166 Tombe de Mehou ................................... 164 Tombe de Néfertari ............................ 94, 96 Tombe de Panehsi .................................... 66 Tombe de Petosiris ................................... 66 Tombe de Tjt .......................................... 175 Tombe de Toutankhamon (KV62) 13, 45, 46, 63, 88, 89, 92, 93, 94, 96, 113, 115, 121, 128, 129, 146, 177, 178, 197, 203 Tombe de Toutou ................................... 148 Tombe G989 ........................................... 192 Tombe G990 ........................................... 192 Tombe KV21 ................................... 195, 203 Tomographie ........ 94, 180, 194, 195, 201, 203 Tourisme 10, 11, 14, 15, 17, 18, 21, 27, 29, 34, 35, 48, 50, 51, 57, 59, 62, 63, 64, 65, 68, 74, 75, 77, 78, 80, 82, 88, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 104, 105, 106, 107, 111, 113, 114, 123, 125, 126, 127, 139, 140, 141, 142, 143, 148, 149, 150, 151, 153, 154, 167, 174,177, 179, 185, BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 186, 196, 197, 198, 199, 208, 209, 212, 214, 215, 216, 229, 231, 232 Transfert .... 9, 10, 34, 37, 47, 50, 57, 123, 162, 206, 207, 208, 227, 231 Tremblement de terre .. 84, 139, 172, 183, 206 Trône ... 73, 74, 75, 95, 98, 106, 134, 138, 141, 165, 187, 195, 201, 222 U Unesco World Heritage List (WHL) .. 29, 30, 86, 158, 159, 229 Universités American University in Cairo (AUC) . 82, 159, 248 Harvard University ..................................... 83 Johns Hopkins University (JHU) .......... 56, 57 Liverpool University ................................ 178 Philipps-Universität Marburg .................. 187 Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG) .................................................. 81 Università degli studi di Milano .......... 60, 61 Università degli Studi di Roma.................. 19 Université Charles de Prague.................. 164 Université d’al-Azhar ................................. 24 Université d’Alexandrie ................... 117, 234 Université d’al-Minyâ ........................ 65, 160 Université d’Hilwân ............................. 80, 81 Université de Lund .................................... 91 Université du Caire ....................... 24, 83, 84 Université du Fayyûm ............................. 186 University of Oxford .......................... 95, 220 University of York .................................... 202 Waseda University .................................... 12 Uraeus .................................................... 91, 99 V Vallées Vallée de Subayra ................................... 184 Vallée des Reines ...... 96, 113, 114, 221, 222 Vallée des Rois . 45, 63, 81, 88, 93, 113, 115, 129, 145, 146, 195, 202, 203 Vases ............................ 19, 174, 175, 190, 229 Vase canope ........................... 122, 167, 229 Verre ............. 63, 105, 143, 189, 190, 196, 232 Vierge Marie ........................... 19, 20, 105, 239 Vin .......................................... 46, 47, 155, 212 Viscère ........................................................ 130 Vizirs ............................................... 74, 79, 229 Mehou..................................................... 164 Vol 79, 108, 109, 127, 128, 165, 176, 195, 229 268 Index W Wakâla-s ....................................................... 86 Wakâlat al-‘Anbariyyîn ........................ 85, 86 World Heritage Committee (WHC) .............. 31 Z Zone piétonne ............................................ 140 - - BIA LIX — Janvier/Juin 2019 269