If you are someone who scrolls through social media channels and is constantly updated with what is happening around; you already know about the whole debate that has happened with the release of the Netflix series, Cleopatra. And now, after an exhibition in the Netherlands that depicted Black American singers and rappers, as the rulers of ancient Egypt, people are not too happy. As a result, it was recently reported that Egyptian officials have banned Dutch archaeologists from the country. Here’s what you need to know about this turn of events.
Egypt Bans Dutch Archaeologists From Saqqara Burial Site?
According to a news report published by the Arab News, it was mentioned that an exhibition happened at the National Museum of Antiquities in the Netherlands, called Kemet, which translates to black land. The exhibition, according to the organisers, explores the significance of ancient Egypt and Nubia. So, at the museum, black American singers like Beyonce and Rihanna were depicted as Queen Nefertiti and American rapper Nas as Tutankhamun. However, first reported by the Times newspaper, it was mentioned that Egypt Antiquities Authorities has banned Dutch archaeologists from the important Saqqara burial ground near Cairo. This comes after the accusations of falsifying history and adopting an Afro-centric approach.
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What Does This Mean For The Site?
Since this museum has played an important role in excavations in Saqqara near Cairo, this ban could affect a major dig over there. Previously, the Egyptian authorities had also criticised a musician who dressed as Nefertiti at Coachella in 2018. Moreover, this condemnation comes after Egyptian authorities and many people were unhappy with the way Queen Cleopatra was depicted on Netflix’s docudrama series.
Briefly speaking, for those who’re not aware, Saqqara is a vast burial ground that served as the necropolis for Memphis, the Ancient Egyptian capital.
So, what do you think about this recent development?
Cover Image Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons