From the Tawy to the Tawe unveils a little-known facet of Welsh heritage: the remarkable presence of ancient Egyptian collections across the nation. This lecture delves into the surprising depth and geographical spread of these holdings, presenting a concise overview of artefacts housed in over 25 institutions throughout Wales.

Moving beyond a simple catalogue, we will explore the diverse histories behind these collections, their varying degrees of accessibility, and the cultural significance of key objects. By highlighting the unexpected connections forged between the "Two Lands" of ancient Egypt (tꜣwy) and the land of the River Tawe, this presentation aims to illuminate Wales' unique, yet largely untold, relationship with the world of pharaohs and pyramids.

About the Speaker

Dr Ken Griffin currently serves as the Curator of the Egypt Centre at Swansea University. Prior to this role, he held the position of Collections Access Manager at the same museum. His connection to the Egypt Centre began in 2000 when he signed up as a volunteer. Over the past two decades, he has dedicated himself to researching and promoting the collection, resulting in the publication of several artefacts. His passion for the subject has led him to visit Egypt over 60 times, and since 2010, he has actively participated in archaeological fieldwork in both Egypt and Sudan.

The Egypt Centre at Swansea University is Wales' largest collection of Egyptian antiquities, featuring over 7,000 artifacts, with around 2,000 on display. Originating from the Wellcome Collection, it offers insights into ancient Egyptian life and funerary practices through its "House of Life" and "House of Death" galleries. The museum is dedicated to research, education, and community engagement, providing free access to explore Egypt's rich history.