Petrie Museum of Egyptian Archaeology

The collection is full of 'firsts': One of the earliest pieces of linen from Egypt (about 5000 BC); two lions from the temple of Min at Koptos, from the first group of monumental sculpture (about 3000 BC); a fragment from the first kinglist or calendar (about 2900 BC); the earliest example of metal from Egypt, the first worked iron beads, the earliest example of glazing, the earliest 'cylinder seal' in Egypt (about 3500 BC); the oldest wills on papyrus paper, the oldest gynaecological papyrus; the only veterinary papyrus from ancient Egypt, and the largest architectural drawing, showing a shrine (about 1300 BC).

More than these highlights, though, the collection is uniquely important because so much of it comes from documented excavations. The large typological series of objects (amulets, faience, objects of daily use, tools and weapons, weights and measures, stone vessels, jewellery) provide a unique insight into how people have lived and died in the Nile Valley.

Collection details

Archaeology, Archives, Costume and Textiles, Decorative and Applied Art, Natural Sciences, Personalities, Science and Technology, Weapons and War

Collections services

• General guide to collections available
• Object identification and/or written enquiry service
• Public access available to collections information
• Specialist publications on collections available
• Object study facilities available (enquire in advance)