Review: Exclusive viewing of Tutankhuamun: Treasures of the Golden Pharaoh

Please note that my family were provided with family press tickets in order to visit and review this exibition.

Just before Christmas I was sent an invitation to a Family Press Day event at the Saatchi Gallery to take a look what at the the treasures of Tutankhamun have to offer.

Unfortunately, I couldn’t make it (damn my busy life!) but thankfully, I was able to offer the tickets to some of my family who could go. This included my sister and her partner and my brother and his family. As a result, my sister-in-law, Vicki, has kindly written about their experience.

A bit about King Tutankhuamun

Ever since Howard Carter unearthed King Tutenkamuns tomb in 1922 the world has been fascinated by the Egyptian boy king. Whether it’s the supposed curse that was put on the tomb; the tragic story of a young king struck down at such an early age or the beauty of the items preserved inside the tomb people love the story and it’s a fascination I share. So you can imagine my excitement at the opportunity to visit the King Tutenkamun exhibit at the Saatchi gallery.

Our Experience

The experience started with us all gathering in a large room where a short film set the scene of Howard Carters excavation. The exhibition is for both adults and children alike and I thought the film particularly useful for the children and giving some background information in a very accessible way.

After the film it was through to the first gallery. The exhibition is divided into 5 galleries depicting King Tuts journey through death. One thing it is really important for people to know before they go is that the exhibition does not feature King Tut’s mummy nor his iconic death mask and whilst that might be disappointing for some the number of other artefacts more than makes up for it. Presented in glass cases, often freestanding allowing a 360 view, visitors are able to get so close to the artefacts you can see the minutest detail. The statues are simply captivating; the colours still so vivid and the attention to detail breathtaking.

Something for all ages

The exhibition has been designed to be accessible for both adults and children and for children there is an activity sheet. It’s always nice for children to have some activities although our 6 year old did struggle with the sheet and something a bit simpler may keep the kids more engaged.

As you walk through there is information to read or you can get an audio headset. As we were visiting with a 6 year old we didn’t go for the audio headset and we kept up a brisker pace than I may otherwise have done but it didn’t stop us appreciating the items and the 6 year old was certainly captivated by a lot of the items and this prompted lots of questions.

The exhibition ends in the shop where there is also a chance to purchase a souvenir photo which was a nice touch.

Why should I visit?

This is billed as the final world tour for these artefacts. Once they return to Egypt they will entombed once again; this time in the swanky new museum that is being built. It’s not a cheap experience but given that it could be a once in a lifetime opportunity for those unable to travel to Egypt it is worth it.

The Egyptians believe that you die twice. Once when your body does and again after the last time someone says your name. For that reason alone King Tut remains and properly will always remain immortal and a constant item of fascination.

Details on how you can visit

The discovery of Tutankhamun captivated the world and is still such a milestone in history that it is taught in school today. Go along to the Saatchi Gallery and learn about his incredible story with your family.

• Exhibition: TUTANKHAMUN: Treasures of the Golden Pharaoh presented by Viking Cruises
• Venue: Saatchi Gallery, Duke of York’s HQ, King’s Rd, Chelsea, London SW3 4RY
• Dates: Saturday 2 November 2019 – Sunday 3 May 2020
• Opening Times:
  • Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Sunday – Open from 09:00 with last entry at 17:30
  • Thursday, Friday, Saturday – Open from 09:00 with last entry at 20:30
    • A timed entry system is in place, with tickets allocated every half hour
    • You may spend as much time as you like enjoying the exhibition but please note that the gallery will close 90 minutes after last entry
    • The average length of stay is between 60 and 90 minutes
    • Children under 16 cost from £16.50 and Adults from £24.50
    • Concessions available
    • Children aged 3 and under go free

Find out more at the Saatchi Gallery website – https://www.saatchigallery.com/art/tutankhamun.php

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