Author: Emma Brand

The Egyptian authorities have suspended the dig license of Dutch archaeologists at the Saqqara excavation site, following an exhibition at the National Museum of Antiquities in Leiden that explores the influence of ancient Egypt on African-American artists.

After the release of the Netflix series African Queens, which portrayed Cleopatra as a Black queen, the exhibition ‘Kemet. Egypt in Hip-Hop, Jazz, Soul & Funk’ focusing on ancient Egypt has found itself at the centre of a heated debate.

‘Kemet’, meaning ‘Black land’, explores the profound impact of ancient Egypt and Nubia on the music of African American artists, who have drawn inspiration from these ancient African civilizations. The exhibition showcases portrayals of figures like Beyoncé, Nas, and Eddie Murphy, represented as Egyptian icons including Queen Nefertiti, Pharaoh Tutankhamun, and Pharaoh Ramses. 

Following its late April opening, the exhibition immediately sparked controversy in Egypt, predominantly on social media platforms. Egyptian authorities accused the museum of promoting Afrocentric manipulation and historical falsification through the exhibition.

The museum director, Wim Weijland, strongly denied the accusations and defended the exhibition’s balanced and scientific approach. The museum responded to the controversy by adding a clarification on its website and will maintain the exhibition without modifications, while also considering the inclusion of the Egyptian perspective. Additionally, an agreement was reached with the Museo Egizio of Turin to take over the investigations in Saqqara.

Daniel Soliman, the Egyptian-Dutch curator, suggests that this controversy is a reflection of Egyptian nationalism and a growing concern in Cairo regarding the external appropriation of cultural heritage. However, it appears that the outrage is somewhat selective. Interestingly, the museum previously organized an exhibition titled ‘The Hollywood's Egypt’ without eliciting any reactions from Egypt.

If you're planning to visit Leiden, the exhibition will be available until September 3.