Egypt Donates Tutankamun Mask Replica to Peru

Why this is here: The replica mask is the first sculptural piece incorporated into the Metropolitan Museum of Lima’s new Hall of Millennial Cultures, which aims to eventually showcase works from civilizations like China, India, and Turkey.

The Egyptian ambassador to Peru, Ahmed Hamdi Bark Mohamed, formally donated a replica of Tutankamun’s funerary mask to Lima, Peru. The sculpture, a precise reproduction of the mask discovered in 1922, now resides at the Metropolitan Museum of Lima.

This donation marks the official beginning of the museum’s future Hall of Millennial Cultures. The museum plans to progressively unveil new pieces donated by embassies from various countries throughout the year. Lima’s municipal government intends to establish the city as a cosmopolitan hub for cultural education and international exchange.

During a diplomatic ceremony, officials noted parallels between ancient Egyptian and Andean civilizations regarding their understanding of life, death, and sacredness. Archaeologist Pieter Van Dalen Luna spoke on the similarities and differences between the two cultures, highlighting the shared respect for history and cultural identity. The museum currently charges S/10 for general admission and S/4 for seniors, people with disabilities, and students.

The museum expects to add a new piece each month, but funding and securing further donations remain ongoing challenges. The project continues with plans to expand the collection.