An accessible exploration of the rich and varied portrait traditions of Ancient Egypt, based on masterpieces from one of the world’s premier collections

Over the course of some 3,000 years, Ancient Egypt fostered a vibrant and dynamic portrait tradition that encompassed innovations, revivals and renaissances. From imposing colossal statues of kings to glamorous sculptures of queens and divinities, to strikingly realistic heads of priests and officials, supremely accomplished artists brought their subjects to life—literally, as statues were places where the spirits of the dead could reside.

Faces of Ancient Egypt draws on masterworks in the peerless collection of the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, to tell the story of how the creators of these portraits strove to balance realism and symbolism, humanity and divinity, tradition and the particular desires of their subjects. Their enduring legacy brings us face to face with a gallery of ancient Egyptians and confirms the surpassing achievements of those who portrayed them.