Presentation of the exhibition
On the occasion of the bicentenary of the deciphering of hieroglyphics, the BnF is presenting an exhibition that focuses on the figure and discoveries of Jean-François Champollion (1790-1832), the father of Egyptology. Barely 32 years old, the young scholar demonstrated his brilliant interpretation of the graphic system of the ancient Egyptians. He offered the world the knowledge of the names of the pharaohs who built the pyramids, the deciphering of the books of the dead found in the tombs and the understanding of a lost language and literature. The exhibition, which is intended for all and particularly for young audiences, highlights Champollion’s approach, his relevance and his influence to the present day.
Nearly 350 items – manuscripts, prints, photographs, papyruses, sculptures… – from the collections of the BnF and exceptional loans – notably from the Louvre Museum and the Egizio Museum in Turin – will introduce the public to the “Champollion method” and bring back to life a civilization that still fascinates today. The exhibition reveals the figure of the father of Egyptology but also Champollion the man, his passion, his immense curiosity, his temperament and his literary talents.
More information, activities around the exhibition and ticket reservation on the BnF website (in French).