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'What to know in Egypt': Queenslanders, Antiquities and Egypt during the First World War
2pm – 3pm
All ages
For Queenslanders stationed in Egypt during the First World War, collecting ancient artefacts as souvenirs was a widespread past time, often informed by guidebooks like CEW Bean’s wartime “What to know in Egypt: a guide for Australasian Soldiers”. Many of the artefacts these service personnel collected were subsequently donated to the Queensland Museum.
In this talk presented by James Donaldson, we explore the experiences of some of these Queenslanders through the ancient Egyptian objects they chose to collect. We'll also consider the shifting perceptions of this historical practice and how to reconcile these with modern day ethics.
About the presenter
James Donaldson is Manager and Curator of The University of Queensland’s (UQ) RD Milns Antiquities Museum and a PhD researcher in how Australians made meaning with the antiquities they took as souvenirs during the First World War. Between 2019 and 2021 UQ and Queensland Museum (represented by Dr Brit Asmussen) collaborated on a research partnership to explore antiquities held in the QM collection that were collected by Queenslanders during the war.
More Information
Tickets are limited. Bookings are encouraged, however walk-ins welcome if space permits.
This presentation does not include exhibition entry to Discovering Ancient Egypt.
Please note, the Discovering Ancient Egypt exhibition includes sensitive subject matter including the display of human and animal remains. Read the full subject matter warning statement.
Accessibility
We offer a range of downloadable accessibility and sensory resources for moving around the museum, to help plan your visit.
For accessibility assistance and resources for this exhibition, please visit our accessibility page or contact the museum on (07) 3153 3000.
Banner image: Australians in camp at Mena. The Pyramids, Australians in camp at Mena. The Pyramids, Copied and digitised from an image in The Queenslander (Brisbane, Qld. :1866-1939) Negative number: 191321
What's on
View our calendar of exhibitions, events, activities and school programs.
Discovering Ancient Egypt
Journey back through time to explore the mysteries, artistry and rituals from one of the world's most captivating civilisations.
Hounds of Ancient Egypt
Gain a fascinating insight into ancient canine burials, the relationship between dogs and humans and their use as votive offerings during ancient Egyptian times.
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Accessibility
Accessibility and sensory information to help you plan your visit to Queensland Museum Kurilpa.