Museum of Antiquities

For the love of Africa

Ancient Egyptian culture has a deeper meaning for artists from the African diaspora: to them, it symbolizes Africa’s inspirational past (Kemet means ‘the black land’ and it’s the name Egyptians used for their country). Just listen to the music of Miles Davis, Nina Simone, Erykah Badu, and Frank Ocean. Don’t miss the golden sculpture of Nas as Tutankhamun, the Egyptian collar worn by Eddie Murphy in a Michael Jackson music video, and garments from Sun Ra’s Arkestra

Stories never told

Kemet focuses on music by artists such as Beyoncé and Rihanna, Miles Davis and Sun Ra and Earth, Wind & Fire. By viewing old Egyptian objects from the museum’s collection through the eyes of these musicians, Kemet tells stories about ancient Egypt that have not been told before.

What do Beyoncé, Erykah Badu and Miles Davis have to do with ancient Egypt? Music exhibition Kemet dives into the connection between Egypt and hip-hop, jazz, soul and funk.

Soulful Egypt

Just half an hour from Amsterdam is Leiden, once one of the biggest cities in the Netherlands. It’s a city with a long and rich history, so it’s only fitting that the Rijksmuseum van Oudheden (National Museum of Antiquities) is located here. This summer, the museum presents a major exhibition about ancient Egypt and music.

Why does Beyoncé pose as Egyptian queen Nefertiti, does Nas portray himself as Pharaoh Tutankhamun and do Earth, Wind & Fire’s record sleeves feature pyramids? Kemet explores how artists with African roots connect with Egypt, and how they use it as a symbol of empowerment and resistance. Dive into 70 years of music history –hip-hop, jazz, soul and much more – and Egyptian antiquity.

UNTIL 3 SEPTEMBER, RMO.NL/KEMET2023

Music and art

Kemet is a unique experience for art aficionados and music lovers. You can watch music videos, concert registrations, and amazing record sleeves. Additionally, there’s art commissioned for the exhibition: a video installation by Richard Kofi and Christian Guerematchi, a song by rap artist Nnelg and a costume created by fashion designer Vanessa Martina that was inspired by one of Sun Ra’s most iconic outfits.