Exhibitions Explore the Legacy of Ancient Egyptian Pharaohs

<p class="dropcap"><span class="smallcaps">Not so long ago</span>, public statuary was often viewed as irrelevant, primarily associated with autocratic regimes. However, recent events have sparked renewed interest in monuments, with debates over their significance and representation of history.</p><p>In Washington, D.C., significant taxpayer funds were allocated for the restoration of equestrian bronzes, while the Trump administration pursued plans for a controversial arch. Meanwhile, an exhibition featuring Kara Walker's reinterpretation of a statue of Stonewall Jackson gained widespread attention. This shift indicates a growing engagement with the narratives that monuments convey and the discussions surrounding their removal or repurposing.</p><p>Two major museum exhibitions titled “Pharaohs” highlight the ancient Egyptians' monumental achievements. Curated by Tarek el-Awady, the exhibition “<a href="https://www.famsf.org/exhibitions/treasures-pharaohs" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Treasures of the Pharaohs</a>” showcases over 100 artifacts, ranging from ancient amulets to the gold funerary mask of King Amenemope. The exhibition emphasizes the continuity of Egyptian society, which revolved around divine kingship and the afterlife.</p><p>Another exhibition, “Maverick Kings: Three Visionary Pharaohs of Egypt’s Golden Age,” at the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston, focuses on Hatshepsut, Amenhotep III, and Akhenaten, all from the 18th dynasty. These rulers are noted for their unique approaches to kingship and their efforts to shape their legacies through monumental architecture and art.</p><p>Hatshepsut, who ruled as co-regent and later declared herself king, is recognized for her monumental constructions, including obelisks and a temple complex at Karnak. Amenhotep III, known for his patronage of the arts, expanded existing temples and built new ones, establishing a classicism in Egyptian art. Akhenaten, who shifted religious focus to the Aten, is noted for his distinctive artistic style that emphasized naturalism and familial intimacy in royal depictions.</p><p>Despite their efforts, the legacies of these pharaohs faced challenges. Hatshepsut was largely erased from history by her successor, Thutmose III, while Akhenaten's reforms were reversed after his death. Amenhotep III's monuments were repurposed by later rulers, illustrating the transient nature of power and legacy in ancient Egypt.</p><p>The exhibitions also reflect on the cultural significance of the afterlife in ancient Egyptian society, as many artifacts were created for burial purposes. The contrast between the enduring nature of funerary items and the destruction of public monuments highlights the complexities of memory and history.</p><hr /><p><em><small>This article appears in the </small></em><a href="https://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/toc/2026/11/?utm_source=feed" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank"><em><small>November 2026</small></em></a><em><small> print edition with the headline “The Greatest Monument Builders of All Time.”</small></em></p>