Egyptian officials ban archaeologists over portrayal of black celebrities as rulers of ancient Egypt
Egyptian officials have banned Dutch archaeologist from the country after an exhibition was launched which portrays black American singers, comedians, and musicians as the rulers of ancient Egypt.
Dutch National Museum of Antiquities (RMO) in Leiden were condemned by the authorities in Cairo following the launch of their exhibition titled ‘Kemet’.
Kemet, which means ‘black land’, explores the ancient civilisation through jazz, soul, and funk music to show the ‘significance of ancient Egypt and Nubia in the work of musicians from the African diaspora’.
The exhibition shows a number of black American stars as popular historical Egyptian figures. This includes, Beyoncé and Rihanna as Nefertiti, American rapper Nas as Tutankhamun, and Eddie Murphy as Ramesses.
However Dutch archaeologists have been banned from the Saqqara burial ground, near Cairo because of the portrays which have been described by as ‘falsifying history.’
Museum Director Wim Weijland told Dutch newspaper NRC Handelsblad: ‘The accusation of falsifying history is inappropriate. This exhibition has been made with great care.
‘As scientists, you don’t accuse each other like this. I want that qualification to be withdrawn.’
The controversy comes after Netflix received backlash for their casting of black British actress Adele James as Cleopatra.
The show has been subject to ‘blackwashing’ claims after James was cast despite historical records showing Cleopatra was Macedonian-Greek.
The ban comes as a big blow to RMO who have been active in Sakkara since 1975.
Last updated: Just Now
See All Latest Nigerian Music Right Now!!!
Share On:
Top 10 Hottest Songs
Nigerian / African Music MUSIC: Bien ft. Franglish & Ayra Starr – My Baby (Remix)
Nigerian / African Music MUSIC: Sarz ft. Charmaine ‘L A & Gimba – Steady
Nigerian / African Music MUSIC: Illbliss ft. Teni – Oh My God
Nigerian / African Music MUSIC: Bloody Civilian ft. ODUMODUBLVCK – Mad Apology
Nigerian / African Music MUSIC: Zlatan ft. Burna Boy – Killin Dem
Gospel Music MUSIC: Samsong ft. Steve Crown – Master Of The World
Nigerian / African Music MUSIC: Kaestyle ft. Kizz Daniel & Omah Lay – My Dealer (Remix)
Nigerian / African Music MUSIC: Lil Emm – Nwanyi Oma (Speed Up)
Nigerian / African Music MUSIC: Wiz Mzy – UnGodly
Nigerian / African Music MUSIC: Jidenna – Safe