TUT @ AGO

I feel comfortable admitting that mostly all my knowledge of Ancient Egypt, acquired in grade five history, disappeared long ago. Recently my mum and sister came to visit me in the city and we spent a highly educational and culture-filled day becoming reacquainted with King Tut: The Golden King and the Great Pharaohs - currently on display at the AGO (until April 18, 2010). 

It was pretty spectacular.  

The lineup went fairly quickly to enter, however, because it was a Saturday, admission was $18.50 for students, $32.50 for adults and the exhibition itself was quite crowded and slow-moving. (It's cheaper to go during the week and I'm sure less busy).

Harrison Ford narrates the introductory short film which gave me chills... (HAHA) Honestly though, Ancient civilizations really just boggle my mind! And the preservation of their belongings from THAT long ago!? HOW?! (Not to mention it's Han Solo himself, total babe. Likely making me, a total dweeb! bahah). Anyways, moving along...

Tut became king at age nine and died mysteriously at age 18. Although his reign was brief, his was the only tomb found in the modern era, mostly intact. The exhibition showcases 50 objects found in his tomb, including his bed made of woven reeds, a ten-foot tall statue of the Pharaoh and my favourite - jewellery and footwear!

The gold, lapis lazuli and red palette was beautiful - each piece unique and exquisite. It's no wonder designers have been drawing inspiration from this ancient wonder for their modern day collections continuously, season after season. 


John Galliano was hugely inspired by the antiquities for his Spring 2004 Couture collection.

Alexander McQueen channeled Nefertiti and Cleopatra hair and makeup, alongside an abundance of gold in Fall 2007.  Cleopatra (below) with the same elongated black eyeliner. 

Sophia Kokosalaki was inspired by tomb paintings for Spring 2009, pairing strong-shouldered jackets with A-line skirts. She chose patterns derived from early hieroglyphics and mimicked the colour palette of ancient Egypt. 

Most recently, Diane von Furstenberg was inspired by antiquity for her Spring 2010 rtw collection - gorgeous beadwork.

They say to draw inspiration from everything you do and see in the world around you - King Tut tells me I'm going to be seeing some ancient Egypt in my spring and summer wardrobe for 2010.  


Runway Images from Style.com.