Both the Legion of Honor and de Young are open to the public. Please read our safety guidelines.
In this lecture, Dr. Tarek El Awady looks beyond the dazzling gold and asks what these treasures
really mean. He questions whether the marvelous workmanship of the artifacts have
overshadowed the fascinating human stories behind their discovery. He also reflects on what
these objects have taught us about history. Most importantly, Dr. El Awady tackles a central
question that runs through the entire exhibition galleries: Why did the Pharaohs bury so much
treasure in their tombs? Did they really spend their whole lives preparing not for life — but for
death?!
Treasures of the Pharaohs exhibition is presented at the de Young Museum from 1 August 2026 through 31 January 2027. For more information, please click here.
About Programs at the Ancient Art Council
Programs are varied and include such activities as lectures by noted archaeologists, museum curators, and ancient art historians; exclusive tours of the Museum’s permanent collection and special exhibitions; fund-raising events; and travel programs to ancient sites and other museums. Members also receive invitations from related organizations to attend lectures ad exhibition openings. Your annual membership dues and contributions will assist in furthering the Ancient Art collection at the Fine Arts Museums.
PROGRAM
August 1, 2026 at 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Treasures of the Pharaohs: What the Gold Doesn't Tell You
Koret Auditorium, de Young Museum, 50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Drive, Golden Gate Park, San Francisco
Presented by Dr. Tarek El Awady Inspector of Antiquities, Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities and Supreme Council of Antiquities, and Field Director, Eastern Assassif, West Bank, Luxor
Admission:
This lecture is free and open to the public on a first-come first- serve basis.
With additional help and support from Public Programs of the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco.
