KEY POINTS:
The magnificent Dome at the Auckland Museum hosted guests for the opening of the museum's latest exhibition, Egypt: Beyond the Tomb.
The exhibition follows Keku, an Egyptian woman who lived 2700 years ago, as she makes the perilous journey through the underworld towards the eternal afterlife.
On display are more than 200 ancient Egyptian burial treasures from animal mummies to the magnificently decorated sarcophagus of Keku and the mummification and embalming tools used in the death rituals of this age-old civilisation.
The formalities began with performers ascending the stairs and addressing Osiris, God of the Underworld, starting the first phase of Keku's journey into the afterlife. This was followed by an address by Dr Jennifer Hellum from the classics and ancient history department of Auckland University.
Egypt: Beyond the Tomb is an international touring exhibition developed by the Australian Museum and the National Museum of Antiquities in Holland. It includes a full range of public events for visitors of all ages and runs until August 12 at the Special Exhibition Hall, Auckland Museum.
- Flash, NZHERALD
