| Description |
The Archaeology Department at Boston University in collaboration with the Greater Boston Vintage Society present a historical reenactment of a Victorian mummy unrolling. Guests are invited to participate in an evening of Victorian science and showmanship, and dress in period-appropriate 19th century evening wear (or in the spirit thereof). Drinks, light hors d’oeuvres and music will accompany a display of artifacts from the Gabel Museum, recently returned from our traveling Cabinet of Ancient Wonders, and a program of lecture and performance.
Learn about the history of the West’s obsession with the inhabitants of the Nile, and the evolution from morbid curiosity to scientific investigation. The evening of entertainment and enlightenment will culminate as we delve headfirst into Egyptomania ourselves, reliving the Victorian obsession with death and with their fascination, but ultimate disregard, for the other. Guests will witness the unwrapping of our very own (simulated) mummy in the spirit of scientific showmanship and love for the grotesque which characterized the Victorian era. Mummy unveilings were common events during the height of Victorian Orientalism, and reflected a tradition of cultural appropriation and fetishism of the exotic lands of Egypt.
Surrounded by the elegant Tudor-style settings of the Boston University Castle, guests may expect a glimpse of a horrific past, which saw heights of imperialism, cultural appropriation, macabre fascinations, and showmanship. We hope this evening will provide a unique lens by which to explore our history of fascination with an exoticized past, and how modern methods allow for non-destructive study and true understanding of the day-to-day lives of the Ancient Egyptians.
Disclaimer: Although the mummy presented is simulated the audience is warned that all attempts have been made to make it appear as real as possible. While there will be no gore involved, the appearance of a desiccated cadaver has been recreated for the purpose of this performance. Additionally, the actual practice of mummy unwrapping is considered unethical and highly destructive for both moral and scientific reasons. This performance has been
conceived in an as authentic as possible light in order to invite the audience to reflect on the lines between science, entertainment, and the long shadow of imperialism.
Cabinet of Curiosity 4-7pm
Mummy unwrapping 7-9pm |
