aixcentric

One hundred and fifty-three treasures from ancient Egypt have gone on show at Aix’s Musee Granet, many of which come from the town’s own collection.  During the 19th c, there was a fascination amongst travellers for all things Egyptian, and collectors include Granet himself and town mayor Francois Sallier. These have been carefully restored and are on show for the first time in 25 years. The exhibition also contains items from other museums including the Louvre.

Also included, a mummified ‘varan de Nil’ which even the Museum in Cairo doesn’t have, apparently. My dictionary couldn’t help me with this one but it turns out to be a monitor, or giant lizard.

There will be a tour in English on Saturday 3rd Oct, at 16:00hrs, given by Emilie from the Education Dept – she is a knowledgeable and enthusiastic guide.  Details: http://www.museegranet-aixenprovence.fr/en/activities/for-adults/guided-tours-for-individuals.html

For even more on ancient Egypt, head off down the cours Mirabeau to the departmental cultural space just down from Monoprix, to see 40 watercolours by Jean-Claude Golvin. He’s a specialist in recreating scenarios of ancient civilisations and works with the Musee de l’Arles Antique. I have long admired his recreations of Roman Aix which are imaginative reconstructions of what the town must have looked like.  At ’21bis Cours Mirabeau’, Wed-Suns 11:30-18:30. I have read it’s open until 11 October but could close/have closed sooner.  If you have info, please share!