The Scribe

New Museum Website and Media!

2009-07-30T09:01:00.000-07:00

The Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum
has a new web home!

We are delighted to announce that the Museum has a new Website:

http://www.rosicrucianegyptianmuseum.org/

Please visit us to enjoy this beautiful new site and features!

Also, please visit and become a Fan of the our Facebook pages:

Rosicrucian Park: http://bit.ly/tO9dr

Official AMORC Site: http://bit.ly/74clt

Or, just Log on (or join) Facebook and then search for "Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum" and "Rosicrucian Park" and "Rosicrucian Order AMORC" for information on new features and news!

You can also follow us on Twitter at

Enjoy these new resources!

Ancient Egyptian Epagomenal Festival: July 18 – 19, 2009

2009-07-15T16:30:00.000-07:00

The Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum will be hosting its annual Egyptian Epagomenal Festival on Saturday, July 18 and Sunday, July 19. In ancient Egyptian mythology, the calendar included 360 days plus five additional epagomenal days. These epagomenal days were days “out of time” when the goddesses Isis and Nephthys, and the gods Osiris, Seth and Horus were born. The Egyptians celebrated the birthdays of these gods with a festival each year. Our version of this festival will include a variety of special lectures, tomb tours, workshops and children’s activities held throughout Rosicrucian Park.

Visit our outdoor booths, held all day on Saturday and Sunday! Booths include hands-on activities such as henna and perfume-making, or get your picture taken at our ancient Egyptian “photo booth.” You can even learn to write in hieroglyphs on papyrus paper!

Saturday, July 18 Schedule

11:30 Gallery Talk: The Goddess Nephthys

12:00 Gallery Talk: The Goddess Isis

12:30 Opening of the Mouth Ceremony and Tomb Tour

12:30 Ancient Egyptian Games Workshop

1:30 Gallery Talk: Ancient Egyptian Creation Myths

2:00 Planetarium Show: The Mithraic Mysteries*

2:00 Ancient Egyptian Jewelry Talk and Jewelry-Making Activity*

3:00 Gallery Talk: The God Osiris

3:30 Planetarium Show: The Mithraic Mysteries*

3:30 Gallery Talk: The God Horus

4:00 Gallery Talk: Mummification

4:30 “Weighing of the Smarts” Ancient Egyptian Trivia Contest*

Sunday, July 19 Schedule

11:00 Gallery Talk: The God Horus

11:30 Ancient Egyptian Mummies Workshop

12:00 Gallery Talk: Scribes and the Rosetta Stone

12:30 Artifact Exploration Workshop

1:30 Opening of the Mouth Ceremony and Tomb Tour

2:00 Planetarium Show: The Mithraic Mysteries*

2:30 Gallery Talk: The Goddess Isis

3:00 Gallery Talk: The God Seth

3:30 Planetarium Show: The Mithraic Mysteries*

3:30 Gallery Talk: The God Osiris

4:00 Gallery Talk: The Goddess Nephthys

4:30 “Weighing of the Smarts” Ancient Egyptian Trivia Contest*

5:00 Ancient Egyptian Garden Tour and Planting Activity*

All activities are complimentary with museum admission.

*Space is limited for some activities, and special tickets are handed out on a first-come, first-served basis, so arrive early to secure your ticket!

For more information email us or call 408-947-3635.

Workshop Highlight: Ancient Egyptian Mummies

2009-06-06T07:38:00.000-07:00

This new addition to our weekend workshop series is all about mummies! The workshop was created to take full advantage of the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum’s four resident human mummies, who provide us with a wealth of information about ancient Egypt.

Part archaeology and part CSI, the workshop currently focuses on all of the information that can be derived from the scientific study of mummies. Participants will be led on a walking tour of our mummy collection, which will illustrate the many techniques that have been used to study these mummies, including forensic anthropology, x-ray and CT scanning, digital imaging, and chemical analysis.

You will get to know all of these four human mummies and exactly what we have learned about each of them. Their stories are fascinating, from the suspicious bone fractures on a 28-year-old woman to the mysterious mummy that arrived at the museum, unwrapped and quite unexpected, in a coffin that did not belong to him.

You will hear about how cutting-edge imaging technology allowed us to see inside the mummy of a 4 ½ year old girl without even touching her, and how these images were used to create an accurate facial reconstruction of the child. The workshop will also cover the process of mummification, why it can preserve bodies for thousands of years, and what visible traces of the process can be seen on the mummies in the museum.

The Ancient Egyptian Mummies Workshop is held on the first Saturday of every month at 12:30 pm, and is free with museum admission. New topics may be added to this workshop in the future, so check the Scribe online for updates!

Discovering the Mummy of Hatshepsut

2009-05-23T14:03:00.000-07:00

One of Egypt’s most famous pharaohs, Hatshepsut is known for an ambitious building program, legendary trading expeditions, and an exceptionally prosperous reign. Hatshepsut is most famous, however, for being one of the few women to rule Egypt as king. Until recently, the body of this legendary ruler was thought to be lost to history, destroyed, like her monuments, in attempts to wipe out all evidence of her reign. However, recent studies suggest that an anonymous mummy in the Valley of the Kings may indeed be "the king herself."

Hatshepsut lived during Egypt’s Eighteenth Dynasty, whose well-known members included Akhenaten, Nefertiti, and Tutankhamun. Her father was Thutmose I, and she married her half-brother, Thutmose II (a common custom for Egyptian monarchs). When Thutmose II died, his son Thutmose III, whom he fathered by another wife, was too young to rule. Queen Hatshepsut became his co-regent and ruled on his behalf, another common custom.

Hatshepsut broke with tradition, however, when she declared herself king. She ruled for a time on her own, and then later as co-Pharaoh with Thutmose III. She used male titles and portrayed herself with traditional kingly attributes. This probably helped to legitimize her reign, since Egyptian custom held that kings should be male. She also reinforced her right to rule by claiming divine descent, and emphasizing her royal lineage through her grandmother, Ahmose-Nefertari. Thutmose III eventually became king, but there is little evidence to suggest he felt animosity toward his step-mother. The destruction of her monuments most likely represents a later political attempt to erase the memory of a female pharaoh and preserve Egyptian tradition.

Hatshepsut’s official tomb, KV20, contained canopic jars for her internal organs but no mummy. A box inscribed for Hatshepsut was found in the cache of royal mummies at Deir el Bahri, but her mummy was not found there. The box contained viscera, probably r from the mummification process, and a fragment of a tooth. The tomb of Hatshepsut’s wet nurse, Sitre-In, is labeled KV60 and contained two female mummies. One was found in a coffin inscribed for Sitre-In, the other was on the floor without a coffin. Despite the fact that her left arm was crossed over her chest in the gesture associated with royalty, the latter mummy was ignored while Sitre-In was taken to a museum. After all, there was little to suggest the glory of who this mummy had been in life- the body was of an obese woman around 50 years old, who suffered from severe gum disease and tooth decay, diabetes and advanced bone cancer.

In 1989, fragments from a gilt wooden coffin were found in KV60. This coffin had a notch for the attachment of a false beard of the type worn by pharaohs, which might suggest a pharaoh had once been buried there- but the bodies from the tomb were both women. Recent analysis of the mummy left in the tomb also showed that it was missing a tooth. When researchers compared it to the tooth fragment from the box inscribed for Hatshepsut, it proved to be an exact match. It was becoming evident that this mummy could be that of the legendary queen. The next step in the process is DNA analysis, which is currently being conducted. Preliminary tests have been “encouraging” in suggesting a relationship between this mummy and that of Ahmose-Nefertari, Hatshepsut’s grandmother.

The search for Hatshepsut’s mummy has led to the construction of a new DNA laboratory near the Cairo Museum, the first of its kind dedicated specifically to mummy studies. National Geographic Magazine also made Hatshepsut the cover story for its April issue. With all of this excitement and new possibilities for research, the results of this study will be widely anticipated and may solve one of ancient Egypt’s greatest mysteries.

Image Credits:

1. Wikimedia Commons: Hatshepsut, Eighteenth dynasty of Egypt, c. 1473-1458 B.C. Indurated limestone sculpture at the Metropolitan Museum of Art,New York City. Photo by Postdlf

2. Wikimedia Commons: Schreibkraft and Luestling

3. At the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum, you can see a model of Hatshepsut’s mortuary temple at Deir el Bahri, and this blue cylinder bead inscribed with the queen’s throne name, Maatkare.

International Museum Day Monday May 18

2009-05-17T22:36:00.000-07:00

This Monday, May 18, is International Museum Day. In the Spirit of Community, our Museum offers free admission on this day!

Come and Enjoy the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum, including

Interactive Audio-Visual Exhibits
Hidden Clues
Exploration of the Rock Cut Tomb Replica
Planetarium Show on the Mithraic Mysteries

Free on Monday May 18!

Open 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Gift Shop Closes at 4:30 pm
Planetarium Show at 2:00 pm
Research Library open 9:00 am - 5:00 pm

For more information, call 408-947-3635.

CATS IN EGYPT

2009-04-27T10:33:00.000-07:00

Who or what is a Miu, Pa-Miu, Ta-Miut or a Ta-Miit? The answer is a simple “meow,” as all of these names mean “cat” in ancient Egyptian. Miu or Pa-Miu is the male form for cat. Pa-Miu means “The Tomcat” and the other two words are the feminine forms for cat. The sun god Ra would sometimes take on the form of a large cat, being called the “Supreme Tomcat.” Miut and Miit were also given as personal nicknames, such as Miit being given to a five year child from the household of Mentuhotep.

No one knows exactly when cats became domesticated, but some experts believe it was about 10,000 years ago. The ancestors of the domestic cat were probably Libyan wildcats from North Africa and were much larger in size than those in Egypt today. Their fur was yellow-gray with striped markings. The markings provided camouflage that the cats needed to hide among the rocks and sands of the desert.

Perhaps as an act of gratitude or to tame them, the ancient Egyptians would leave morsels of food around for the cats to eat. Eventually the cats accepted the Egyptians and became an important part of their households. The Egyptians realized that cats were very skilled hunters and very adept at killing rats, mice and most importantly, poisonous snakes such as the cobra or the horned viper whose bites were usually deadly. This rodent hunting helped reduce the spread of diseases such as bubonic plague, typhoid, salmonella, and dysentery.

Cats also played a part in Egyptian medicine. The fat, fur and excrements of a male cat were used in medicine, while the placenta and the fur would be used from a female cat. A female cat’s fur, in combination with human milk and resin, could be applied to the skin to soothe burns. Feline placenta would be used in a lotion to keep the hair from turning gray. Cat fat, as well as other animal fats, was used in bandages as a remedy for stiffness. The fat of a tomcat rubbed over things was also guaranteed to keep the rodents away.

The Egyptians loved and pampered their cats. Even in times of famine, household cats would be well fed and cared for. They were routinely bathed and groomed and when mummified were rubbed in cedar oil and wrapped in linens. In Egypt, a Roman soldier was said to have accidentally killed a cat. As punishment, the soldier was killed by the townspeople. When a cat died, the inhabitants of the house where the cat had lived would shave their eyebrows in mourning. To this day, a cat’s home is still the streets, mosques and ancient temples of Egypt.

Cats were also much prized as subjects for mummification. ometimes this was to honor a household cat. In other circumstances, cats were routinely killed in order to be mummified as an offering to a deity, or for a burial.

The Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum has a collection of feline mummies, amid its other animal mummies. Several examples of cat mummies and coffins accompany this article. Visit the Museum in person or online to see these and more!

Earth Day at the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum!

2009-04-22T08:56:00.000-07:00

Activities at the Museum for Earth Day, Wednesday, April 22, 2009

Every year since the spring of 1970, the U.S. and other countries have celebrated Earth Day, focusing attention on the environment and bringing awareness to our material impact worldwide. This day salutes the progress we have made towards greener living and serves as a platform to launch new initiatives.

At Rosicrucian Park, we are continually striving to do our part in decreasing our global footprint. We compost our yard clippings, use recycled materials, prohibit the use of pesticides, take public transportation, and more.

So get your green on and join us for fun-filled activities and tours here at the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum on Earth Day:

10:30 am: Docent-led tour of Rosicrucian Park

12:00 Noon - 4:00 pm: The Museum will have a Garden Booth by the Rosicrucian Park's Central Fountain with ongoing activities, including:
A Powerpoint presentation on Ancient Egypt and Ecology

Coloring, Acrostics and other activities for kids of all ages

Welcome All!
For more information, call 408-947-3635.

The Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum is on Twitter!

2009-04-17T09:27:00.000-07:00

The Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum is now on Twitter!

We have firmly entered the 21st century with the Museum's new Twitter entry

RCEgyptMuseumSJ

If you have a Twitter account, just set it up to "follow" us to receive updates daily on events at the Museum!

Our sister institution, the Rosicrucian Research Library, is also on Twitter too, at RCLibrarySJ. Follow both to learn about events at Rosicrucian Park.

The Twitter for The Rosicrucian Order, AMORC is AMORC.

To learn more about Twitter, the phenomenon that is all over the Internet, go to the Twitter site.

Upcoming Events for Spring/Summer at Rosicrucian Park 2009

2009-03-31T11:10:00.000-07:00

Join the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum as we celebrate Earth Day, Astronomy Day, Spring in Guadalupe Gardens, and our Epagomenal Festival!

April 22- Earth Day
April 25- Spring in Guadalupe Gardens
May 2- Astronomy Day
May 18- International Museum Day
July 14-18- Egyptian Epagomenal Days

Earth Day
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Museum and Park grounds

Every year since the spring of 1970, the U.S. and other countries have celebrated Earth Day, focusing attention on the environment and bringing awareness to our material impact worldwide. This day salutes the progress we have made towards greener living and serves as a platform to launch new initiatives. At Rosicrucian Park, we are continually striving to do our part in decreasing our global footprint. We compost our yard clippings, use recycled materials, prohibit the use of pesticides, take public transportation, and more. So get your green on and join us for fun-filled activities and tours here at the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum on Earth Day!

Spring in Guadalupe Gardens
Saturday, April 25, 2009
10am-3pm
Guadalupe Gardens
Between Coleman Avenue and Taylor Street

Located in Guadalupe Gardens, downtown San Jose, this annual festival celebrates Green Living, Earth Day and the great outdoors. Here, you will find more information on Spring in Guadalupe Gardens in addition to a schedule of activities. The event is family-friendly and includes entertainment for all ages, food, a live band and a raffle. Expert gardening advice and booths from a variety of organizations focusing on sustainability and the environment are also advertised.

This year, guests of the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum’s booth are invited to partake in a Papyrus Planting activity. Each participant will receive a papyrus seed, potting soil and a biodegradable pot. As the seeds are planted, guests will learn about the importance of papyrus in ancient Egypt, particularly as a source for paper. Guests will also have the opportunity to write or stencil their names in Egyptian hieroglyphs on a piece of real papyrus paper. We will also have information available regarding the many uses of papyrus and fun facts about other ancient Egyptian plant products including frankincense, myrrh and cinnamon sticks.

Astronomy Day
Saturday, May 2, 2009
Museum and Planetarium

In 1973, Astronomy Day was started as a means to bring together astronomy enthusiasts, professional organizations, amateur astronomers, planetariums and the general public to converse on astronomy. Each year Astronomy Day falls on a different day between May and April in anticipation of the first quarter moon. Rosicrucian Park displays a great connection to Astronomy through our Planetarium. Every day at 2:00pm, with an additional showing at 3:30pm on the weekends, we feature “The Mithraic Mysteries”, a cosmological origin theory of the ancient Roman mystery religion known as Mithraism.

The Rosicrucian Planetarium, opened in 1936 is the fifth planetarium built in the United States and the first in history to feature an American-built star projector. H. Spencer Lewis, the founder of Rosicrucian Park, was an avid astronomer and his forays into science and mysticism can be seen in our Welcome Center exhibit, located in the Planetarium. In times more dangerous and uncertain than the present, ancient Egyptians would often look to the heavens for answers and explanations. Our Museum’s Kingship Gallery holds a replica of the Dendera Zodiac, one of the most complete and intriguing examples of ancient Egyptian cosmic conceptions. Please join us on May 2nd for an Astronomy-themed day of talks, tours and presentations in our Museum and Planetarium.

International Museum Day
Monday, May 18, 2009
Museum

Since 1977, museums around the world have celebrated International Museum Day. Developed by the International Council of Museums (ICOM), this is a day for the worldwide museum community to collectively interpret the past in light of the present to shape a better future and to bring attention to the importance of culture in our communities. The aim of this annual event is also to raise public awareness of the vital role museums play in society. Museums all over the world mark the occasion with open days, guided tours, public events and workshops. This year’s theme is “Museums and Tourism”. Please join us on International Museum Day for a variety of talks and tours on the intricacies of life and death in ancient Egypt. Admission is complimentary!

Epagomenal Festival
Saturday and Sunday July 18-19, 2009
Museum and Park grounds

The Epagomenal Festival in ancient Egypt marked the birthdays of the gods Horus, Osiris, Seth, Isis, and Nephthys. The ancient Egyptian calendar traditionally consisted of 360 days, plus an additional 5 days “out of time” when the sky goddess Nut birthed her children. All over Egypt, celebrations filled with dancing, music and general merrymaking were held to commemorate these renowned, Nile-spanning Egyptian deities. In spirit of this ancient Egyptian tradition, the Museum will put on a weekend festival in its honor. In previous years we’ve held activities on henna, cooking, perfumes and cosmetics on the park grounds, Senet and other games in the gardens, special talks and tomb tours in the museum, planetarium activities and more. Please check back in the next few months for a full event list.

A Dream of the Stars: A Brief Look at the Historic Rosicrucian Planetarium (Part 2)

2009-03-30T15:29:00.000-07:00

The Rosicrucian Planetarium was the fifth built in the United States, and part of a very long tradition. Planetarium history begins during ancient Egypt and the tomb of Senenmut— the earliest known depiction of the sky. Nearly 2,200 years ago the Greek philosopher Archimedes (287–212 BCE) is credited with creating the first early planetarium device that could predict the movements of the Sun and the Moon as well as the planets. Today these devices are usually referred to as orreries. In fact, many planetariums today have what are called projection orreries (including ours) which project onto the dome the Sun and planets, usually those planets limited to the ones visible with the naked eye (Mercury - Saturn).

The first device that we might refer to as a true “planetarium," that is an enclosed area intended to observe an artificial sky, appears to have been a type of tent with holes punched in it so as to emulate the constellations as they appeared in the sky.

Originally designed and crafted by the Arabs of the 13th century, the device eventually came to Europe as a result of the Crusades. In 1229 the emperor Friedrich II of Hohenstaufen brought one such tent with him from a campaign in the Near East. Although none remain today and the details are limited, it seems that the viewer sat within, while a kind of rotating platform moved the tent around the individual.

The covering was perforated with tiny holes used to represent stars. The sky, the constellations and their motions could now be viewed during daylight hours. Over the next 600 years the same idea led to the making of various domes and globes for viewing the heavens above. The majority featured the same basic idea as the tent previously mentioned only the tent itself was replaced by a stationary domed building.

The first modern planetarium emerged from Germany in the in the early 20th century. In 1903, the German scholar, Oskar von Miller, began planning the German Museum in Munich. This museum was intended to celebrate the accomplishments of modern science and technology. It was also to feature a section dedicated to astronomy. Here the first modern star projector would replace forever the antiquated stationary domes of the 18th and 19th centuries.

The optical star projector as a concept is surprisingly simple. It revolves around the idea of a single globe punctured with holes to emulate the stars and their position in the sky, each hole fitted with a lens to amplify the light. A powerful bulb within the globe would therefore project the sky up on to a dome. Motors would rotate the unit so as to emulate the movement of the heavens. All of this sounds simple yet getting all the components to function together proved troublesome to its inventors.

The company responsible for the star projector's creation was the optical company Carl Zeiss located in Jena, Germany. Its creation however, as mentioned, would not be an easy task. In addition to the mechanical difficulties, the First World War and the economic crises plaguing the world at the time caused the project to be delayed for several years.

Finally in 1923 the German Museum’s planetarium powered by the Zeiss Model I projector opened to worldwide acclaim. This would become the prototype for all modern star projectors and planetariums over the ensuing 60 years.

When the Rosicrucian Planetarium opened in 1936, it included the first ever U.S.-built star machine designed and constructed by H. Spencer Lewis, and a team of engineers and scientists here at Rosicrucian Park. Regularly scheduled “star shows” began.

Today we have a modern Spitz projector powering our shows. Our Spitz system 512 projector is capable of projecting more then 1,300 stars onto the dome. The star machine also features latitudinal, daily, annual and precessional motions for the demonstration of various celestial phenomena. This model is in fact one of the most widely used in the world being installed in over 150 planetariums worldwide.

For over 70 years our Planetarium has faithfully served the community by bringing the wonders of the cosmos alive. Please feel free to join us for our current planetarium show The Mithraic Mysteries. This show plays daily at 2:00 pm with an additional showing at 3:30 pm on Saturdays and Sundays. In addition to our show the planetarium is also home to the Rosicrucian Welcome Center, a fascinating exhibit on the history of Rosicrucian Park.

Bes Jars

2009-03-21T08:45:00.000-07:00

Bes was one of the most important gods of ancient Egypt, although few people have heard of him. Unlike the official forty-two state gods, Bes was a household god. He was easily identified by his curly beard and the knives or rattles that he wielded. He was portrayed as looking fierce and threatening, in order to ward off bad luck and evil. Before being given the name ‘Bes’, he was known as the demonic ‘Aha’, or fighter. He was thought to be able to strangle bears, lions, and snakes with his bare hands.

Originally being reserved solely as a protector of the king, he soon became a popular god of everyday ancient Egyptian people, and was often depicted on household items such as beds, chairs, mirrors, and walls. Bes protected the home, and the people of ancient Egypt would honor him in the hope of family protection.

Bes may be most well known though, for his protection of children, beginning at birth. Images of him were painted on walls of birthing rooms protecting both mother and child. If problems arose during labor, a clay statue of Bes was placed by the head of the mother, while protective spells were cast over her. Children throughout all of Egypt, both rich and poor, wore amulets of him in hopes of keeping accidents and illnesses at bay.

The ancient Egyptians believed in a principle called Ma’at, or balance in everything. Probably owing to this belief, Bes was not just associated with fierceness, but also entertainment, laughter, and happiness. He was thought to please and entertain children with singing and dancing, and is therefore depicted as both happy and jovial.
One of the most common depictions of Bes were jars decorated with his face. If a child were ill, milk would be given to them in one of these Bes jars. It was believed that the milk would turn to medicine and protect the child. If the child didn’t get well though, of course a doctor would be called. It was then not uncommon for the physician to offer medicine out of a Bes jar.

The final form of Bes jars came during the Roman period. Bes jars were no longer delegated to only children. Soldiers, believing that they were vulnerable, just like a child, often drank their beer rations out of Bes jars in hopes of protection from attacks.

The most important aspect of life to the ancient Egyptians was family. Ancient Egypt was a very dangerous place to live, with 30-50% of people not even making it to adulthood, due to disease, animal attacks, and more. Rather than feeling helpless to the dangerous conditions, Egyptians honored gods such as Bes to protect their family, therefore giving them a sense of control over their chaotic world.
-- Jen Slauter, Docent

The Ides of March

2009-03-12T19:10:00.000-07:00

The Ides of March: Cleopatra VII’s Egypt at the Dawn of the Roman Imperial Era

On March 15th, 44 B.C.E. Julius Caesar was assassinated. The Ides of March has long been associated with the beginning of the juggernaut known as the Roman Empire, an empire that would span the Mediterranean and lay the foundations for much of our modern Western society. Yet this history-changing event would also lead to the downfall of Pharaonic Egypt and be seminal in the life of Cleopatra VII (image at left), the last Egyptian Pharaoh and one of the most famous personalities from the ancient world.

Descended from Ptolemy I Soter (Ptolemy “the savior”) who arrived with Alexander the Great’s army about 300 years prior, Cleopatra VII came from a Macedonian Greek lineage that would rule Egypt as monarchs who were sometimes out of touch with their people. Even though great building projects were undertaken during their time consistent with traditional Egyptian themes, the Ptolemies outwardly appeared more focused on their heritage across the Mediterranean. Their statuary was kept consistent with the idealistic yet still fluid representations of Greek Kings and Queens, while their living quarters, palaces, dining tendencies, writing and overall day to day life resembled that of their home country, until Cleopatra VII took the throne.

She was the only one of her dynasty recognized as having learned the ancient Egyptian language, Cleopatra often identified herself with the goddesses Isis and Hathor (Two very similar goddesses representing magic and love/beauty respectively), and held parades and rituals in traditional Egyptian style. Her statues were also portrayed in the age-old Pharaonic manner with the left foot forward, a straight and rigid body posture, the goddess Wadjet adorning her brow, and a stoic countenance.

During the rise of Rome’s military might, Cleopatra formed a political and personal union with the most celebrated and revered general of that country, Julius Caesar. Their alliance kept Cleopatra on the throne and Egypt free of Rome’s ever-expanding armies. The Egyptians were able to go about their lives as they had for millennia past. Unfortunately, Roman sympathies were not with Caesar and his new ally. Egypt, to the egalitarian Republic of Rome, was a land of absolute monarchy where the Pharaoh was a god incarnate and had unqualified say over the populace’s governance, morals and values. Caesar’s dalliance with Cleopatra caused the Romans to fear he would make himself King to her Queen, ruling by her side not only in Egypt but perhaps in Rome as well. These fears culminated on March 15th, 44 B.C.E., where Julius Caesar was mobbed and stabbed by a gang of Senators in Rome, leaving Cleopatra without her Roman connection.

Living in Rome at the time, Cleopatra fled back to Egypt with the angry sentiments of the Roman populace focused upon her. For the next few years she was able to hold Egypt’s sovereign position by forming an alliance with Marc Antony, another powerful Roman general. Ultimately though, Egypt and Cleopatra’s hopes for continued autonomy had died with Caesar. The Romans, fearing that another of their leaders had a taste for ultimate power, backed Caesar's nephew Octavian (later to become the first Roman Emperor, Augustus) in war against the partnership of Marc Antony and Cleopatra. Octavian invaded Egypt, and further expanded Rome into a true Empire.

He was successful, and with the death of both Marc Antony and Cleopatra, Egypt would become a province of Rome, and a new chapter in the history of Egypt was to begin. The Ides of March marked the beginning of the end for a governmental system that had persisted for close to 3,300 years. During the ensuing 600 years of Roman rule, Egyptian, Hellenistic and Roman culture would blend into a new, and ultimately Christian society, the Coptic culture.

In the Museum’s Kingship gallery stands a statue of Cleopatra VII, only one of seven that survive to this day. Please be sure to visit this magnificent testimony of this moment in history and enjoy an audio presentation of her story upon your next visit.

(above) Roman-Egyptian Mask (30 BCE - 4th century CE) Romans, like Egyptians, practiced a form of ancestor worship. This mask of a woman was probably venerated by her family. While it is of the Roman style, it does possess Egyptian traits. The top of the head is surmounted by a scarab beetle and solar disk for protection. The woman was probably of a prominent Romano-Egyptian family.

A Dream of the Stars: A brief look at the historic Rosicrucian Planetarium (Part 1)

2009-02-03T07:54:00.000-08:00

In 1936 a small group of esteemed guests and eager members of the community watched as Dr. H. Spencer Lewis opened the Rosicrucian Planetarium and Science Center for the first time to the public. Since then thousands more have visited in hopes of learning the mysteries of our universe. This historic building is the fifth planetarium built in the United States and the first in history to feature an American built star projector. Before its opening, planetariums were just starting to come to public attention and most were out of the way and difficult to get to. The Rosicrucian Planetarium made strides to bring the public closer to the stars.

Harvey Spencer Lewis and Mrs. May Banks-Stacey were the co-founders of the Rosicrucian Order, AMORC in 1915, a non-profit organization which was heir to the Rosicrucian philosophical and initiatic tradition dedicated to the knowledge, understanding and betterment of one’s self, humanity and the planet. Lewis had been initiated into the Rosicrucian Tradition in Toulouse in 1909, 100 years ago this year, while Banks-Stacey had been initiated earlier in India.

The decision was made in 1927 to bring AMORC's headquarers to San Jose in the hopes that it would blossom and flourish in this wonderful environment, and flourish it did. Soon Rosicrucian Park would become a city center for culture, science and art, a distinction we still hold today. As the park expanded so did H. Spencer Lewis’s dream.

One of the most striking aspects of our Planetarium is its unique design. The high arching doorways and windows along with the spired dome are all elements of North African architecture. This style is most commonly seen throughout the Near East and in other parts of the Islamic world. The Planetarium was designed by Lewis as a tribute to the Arab astronomers of old, widely recognised as the parents of modern astronomy.

Greeting you as you walk through the front doors is our Foucault's pendulum. The Foucault's pendulum's namesake was Jean Bernard Léon Foucault (1819-1868), a French physicist. While physicists had known about the rotation of the Earth for some time, Foucault's Pendulum was the first proof that people could duplicate it in an easy experiment, winning it much attention.

The Pendulum works in a very specific way. If you set the pendulum moving, the direction of its swing will change very slowly over the course of the day because of the rotation of the earth. This is called the Coriolis Effect. However, this is not the whole story. The pendulum is not actually changing direction... it is "trying" to continue swinging in the same direction as it started, despite the turning of the earth beneath it. If the pendulum were placed at the North or South Pole, it would continue swinging in the same fixed direction compared to the stars as the earth turned freely below it. The pendulum would therefore (as we see it) make one entire rotation per day. At other latitudes, its rotation is slower. A Foucault's pendulum does not work at the equator.

This is a wonderful experiment, but air resistance and the force of gravity will eventually stop even a large pendulum like ours. The Coriolis Effect will not help the pendulum keep swinging; it simply affects the direction of the swing.

That is where our clever motor comes in. At the very top of the pendulum is a magnetic ring. Every time the pendulum swings through the center position, a sensor determines its direction and gives it a gentle magnetic "push" in precisely the same direction--just enough to keep the pendulum from slowing down, without altering its direction and affecting the Coriolis Effect. You can swing the pendulum when the motor is turned off and observe precisely the same effect. The only difference is the pendulum will slow down and eventually stop swinging after an hour or two.

Please check back in the next few weeks for Part 2 of our Planetarium’s History and other articles dealing with Rosicrucian Park, the Museum and the ancient world.

In the meantime, please feel free to join us for our current planetarium show The Mithraic Mysteries. This show plays daily at 2:00 pm with an additional showing at 3:30 pm on Saturday and Sunday.

In addition to our show the planetarium is also home to the Rosicrucian Welcome Center, a fascinating exhibit on the history of Rosicrucian Park.

CHICKPEA SALAD: A Refreshing Treat!

2009-02-03T07:36:00.000-08:00

Reconstructing the ancient Egyptian diet may at first seem challenging. The ancient Egyptian culture combined with Roman culture during the first six centuries of the first millennium CE. The Empire ruled first from Rome, and then from Constantinople after the mid-4th century. A distinctive Coptic culture emerged: an inheritance of the ancient Egyptian culture with Hellenistic influence and increasingly Christian through the first six centuries of the current era.

While a few detailed documents remain of ancient Egyptian activities and industries (as in the Medical Papyri), we have no such comprehensive resource for food preparation. It is only in rare instances that we have a full recipe preserved, as is the case with “Date Candy,” found etched on a piece of broken pottery to about 1600 BCE. In order to recreate what they ate, we instead rely on a diverse array of sources including temple records, tomb paintings, food remains in tombs, and ethnographic examples from past and present Egyptian eras.

Chickpea Salad is a reconstruction based mainly on this latter category. A popular and refreshing dish from Egypt’s Coptic, Islamic and modern periods, this salad combines a few simple native Egyptian and imported ingredients from the past 4,000 years.

Ingredients (the basics):

1 can Chickpeas (Garbanzo Beans) (15 oz.)
1 ½ cup coarsely chopped Cucumbers
1 ½ cup chopped Tomatoes
½ cup chopped Red Onions
1 cup coarsely crumbled Feta Cheese
½ cup Olive Oil
1/3 cup Vinegar

Ingredients (optional):

Celery, Garlic, Salt & Pepper, chopped Parsley, and plain yogurt. Large leaf lettuce for optional serving suggestion. Eat with Pita bread.

Preparation:

Mix olive oil and white wine vinegar
Add in drained garbanzo beans with oil/vinegar mix and let sit for 5 minutes
Add in cucumbers, tomatoes, onions and feta
Add in any optional ingredients desired
Mix well and enjoy!

Serving Suggestion:

Spoon mixture into a bowl lined with large lettuce leaves, as in the photos.

2008 In Egyptology

2008-12-29T12:37:00.000-08:00

The Year in Egyptology

2008 has been a wonderful year for Egyptology. Many important discoveries have been made that contribute to our knowledge of Egyptian history and enhance our understanding of this fascinating culture. Let us begin the new year with a review of the discoveries that made the news in 2008.

(Left: a Pyramidion in the Collection of the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum)

Newly Discovered Pyramid at Saqqara

Perhaps the most compelling find of 2008 was the “missing pyramid” at Saqqara. The existence of this pyramid was recorded in 1842 by a German archaeologist, Karl Lepsius, but desert sands subsequently covered the site, making it impossible to locate. It was finally re-discovered by a team led by Zahi Hawass in 2008. The pyramid was originally named the “Headless Pyramid” by Lepsius, because only the lower portion of the structure remained, explaining why the site was so easily obscured by the encroaching sand, which had accumulated to a height of 25 feet.

Based on the style of the pyramid and the lid of a gray granite sarcophagus found in the burial chamber, Hawass has dated it to the Old Kingdom, specifically to the 5th Dynasty king Menkauhor, who reigned for only 8 years. In addition to the pyramid, the site also produced the remnants of a ceremonial procession road dating to the Ptolemaic period. These recent discoveries have only served to increase the archaeological significance of Saqqara, a site already famous as the location of the first pyramid in Egypt, the Step Pyramid of king Djoser.

Mummies with Malaria

Egyptian mummies have also recently provided evidence of the earliest known cases of malaria. In October, German researchers released the results of a study conducted on bone tissue from mummies. The study showed that malaria was present in two mummies from western Thebes dating between 1500 and 500 BCE. This is important because the only references to malaria in ancient Egypt came from the 5th century historian Herodotus and a few vague references in Egyptian papyri. The disease was first clinically described by Hippocrates in 400 BCE, but no evidence had been found to support its existence in Egypt at that early date. The discovery of malaria in these mummies not only proves the veracity of the historical accounts, but may also allow scientists to trace its development through history and enhance their understanding of the parasite, perhaps leading to better treatment methods.

Giza in the Spotlight

The pyramids of the Giza Plateau were the subject of another interesting study in 2008. Giulio Magli, a mathematician at Milan’s Polytechnic University, has proposed that the Great Pyramid of Khufu and that of his son, Khafre, were designed not as separate structures but as part of one great plan. The plan was initially Khufu’s, and the monuments were both intended to be part of his great mortuary complex. Magli’s theory is that Khafre later usurped the smaller of the two pyramids for his tomb. This theory is based upon geographical and astronomical observations. During the summer solstice, if one stands next to the sphinx facing the pyramids, the sun sets directly between the two pyramids of Khufu and Khafre. This essentially created a monumental representation of the hieroglyph aket, or horizon, comprised of two peaks surmounted by a sun disk. This would have been a potent symbol of Khufu’s power and connection with the sun.
In Egyptian sources, the Great Pyramid is referred to as akhet khufu, the horizon of Khufu. This symbolism would not have been possible were the pyramids built at different times; it only works if the two were planned as a single project. Magli has gathered more evidence to support his theory, and many experts agree with his findings.
(Giza Photos by Jorge Enriquez, F.R.C. from the December 2008 Rosicrucian Tour of Egypt.)

Further Discoveries

Some other important events in 2008 were the discovery of a 2,500-year-old Greek temple in Alexandria, and the announcement of plans to build the world’s first underwater museum in Alexandria at the site of Cleopatra’s palace. Though several important discoveries were made in 2008, some of the most compelling events were the announcements of new research and building projects that will give us a great deal to look forward to in the next year. 2009 promises to be an even more amazing year for Egyptology with the potential for great discoveries, and we can all anticipate an exciting new year!

Ancient Egyptian Cosmetics Workshop

2008-12-21T15:56:00.000-08:00

Ancient Egyptian Cosmetics Workshop

On the second Saturday of every month, the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum hosts a workshop that focuses on the history of ancient Egyptian cosmetics. Topics include the discovery and implementation of raw materials that were used as pigments, the transitions in tradition of cosmetic design and symbolism throughout ancient Egyptian culture and also the importance the roles of the gods and goddesses played in daily cosmetic application. We will also discuss the significance of personal hygiene, therapeutic and medicinal aspects of cosmetics application for the ancient Egyptian people.

The workshop is given by one of the museum docents and is complimentary with museum admission.

A Brief Introduction to Ancient Egyptian Cosmetics:

Cosmetics are as old as vanity, and there are clues to this left in the archaeological record. Excavations have unearthed cosmetics from some of the oldest burials in Egypt and continued right into modern times. The ancient Egyptian people had several reasons for applying cosmetics. One reason is that decorating their bodies with make-up would appease certain gods, especially the goddess Hathor, who was the goddess of beauty, love, and fertility.

Another reason for cosmetic application would have been a fairly practical use. Not only did they view cosmetics as making them beautiful, eyeliner may have been used as a prophylactic, aiding in the protection of one’s eyes from the hot, glaring desert sun.

Yet another example of why ancient Egyptians wore make-up was because of the cultural expectations of personal hygiene. People were expected to show the best version of themselves, especially priests and elite members of society, to not only the public but to the gods and goddesses as well. Keeping yourself clean and well groomed meant keeping parasites at bay and body odor to a minimum. Cosmetics application was the finishing touch to a well-groomed individual. Make-up was so important it's even referred to in the Book of the Dead, regarding the gods’ and goddesses’ questioning at the negative confession of the deceased. Chapter 125 states,

"They give their speech when they are pure, clean, dressed in fresh clothes, shod in white sandals, painted with eye-paint, anointed with the finest oil of myrrh."

Come to the museum on the second Saturday of every month at 12:30 pm, and have fun learning about a very important custom that was integral to ancient Egyptian culture and custom. We look forward to seeing you!

Tear Bottles

2008-11-25T16:57:00.000-08:00

The first documented reference to collecting tears in a bottle appears in the Hebrew Scriptures. David prays to God, “Thou tellest my wanderings, put thou my tears in Thy bottle, are they not in Thy book?” (Psalms 56:8, approximately 1020 BCE)

Tear bottles, or lachrymatories, also abound in stories of ancient Egypt and Rome, as well as Middle Eastern societies.

Around 100 CE many of these small bottles were found in tombs. Because so many glass vials were found in tombs, the theory was developed that they were part of the mourning ritual. It was believed that mourners would fill the small glass vials with tears and place them in burial tombs as a symbol of love and respect. Sometimes mourners were even hired for wealthy funerals. Those crying the loudest and who produced the most tears received the most compensation. The more anguish and tears that were produced, the more valued and important the deceased person was seen to be, or so the stories go.

Glass blowing was prevalent during the Roman Period, and continued throughout most of history. Byzantine (East Roman Empire) Glass was well known, and even in Western Europe after the withdrawal of Roman power there, the Franks continued the tradition. Examples of glass blowing in the Islamic world, and to the East, in China and Japan are all attested. The western European Renaissance saw a tremendous upsurge in glass blowing, especially in Venice, where it is still famous today.

Because tear shaped bottles were an extremely popular shape during the Roman Period, it is debated whether or not the bottles were actually used to hold tears, possibly being used for perfumes and medicines instead. For instance, bottles found during the Hellenistic Period (300 CE) were very large, about 11-25 cm tall, and therefore would not have been very practical to hold tears.

The story of tear bottles continued unabated. During Victorian Era funerals, lachrymatory were distributed for guests to catch their tears in. The bottles held special stoppers, and it is said that when the tears evaporated, the period of mourning was complete. Stories have also been found of soldiers during the U.S. Civil War leaving their wives with tear bottles as they departed for battle. It was hoped that the bottle would be full upon their return, to show their wives love and devotion.

Therefore, while the exact origin and historical use of bottles to catch tears still remains a mystery, it is certain that they were an important part of legend and popular culture of the time.

Please visit the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum to view some examples of Egyptian and Roman glass tear bottles in our Daily Life Gallery.

-- Jen Slauter, Docent

Volunteer of the Month: Silke Higgins

2008-11-02T16:22:00.000-08:00

Silke Higgins began in our Volunteer Program just a few months ago in July. Her work supplements her studies at San Jose State, where she is working towards her B.A. in Anthropology (with an emphasis on Archaeology), by being a positive and enthusiastic presence to both staff and guests here at Rosicrucian Park.

While Silke might be one of our newest volunteers, her contributions have been prodigious! They include reorganizing the museum’s Curator's Library, assisting at workshops, giving talks, aiding with staff projects and putting in many over-time hours at our events and festivals. She will volunteer in whatever capacity she is needed, from the complex set-up and takedown of events to developing talks and being a professional and informed resource for our guests, assuring that both knowledge and fun are part of their visit.

Silke’s fascination with Egypt began at a early age. Originally from Germany, Silke grew up reciting king lists and memorizing random Egyptian facts while other children played. Stories from ancient Egypt enchanted her throughout childhood, while the lion-headed goddess Sekhmet captured her heart and imagination.

For Silke, Sekhmet represents the ancient concept of Ma’at, a true symbol of balance. Her surprise and delight were magnified when she found a small, almost perfectly preserved statue of Sekhmet in the museum’s collection, and further, an entire gallery dedicated to this deity. This small Sekhmet statue, RC #1, the first artifact to come into the museum’s collection has been enthralling people all the way back to the time of the Museum’s founder, Harvey Spencer Lewis.

The statue sat on H. Spencer Lewis' desk at the headquarters of the Rosicrucian Order, AMORC during the early years of the 20th century. When greeting visitors, he would point to Sekhmet and say, "Here is the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum!" From his vision, our present Museum has grown to be the largest display of ancient Egyptian artifacts in Western North America.

Besides the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum, Silke has been a frequent visitor to both the Berlin and British museums, but by far her most memorable experience occurred in Köln (Cologne) where, as a grade-schooler, she came face to face with King Tut’s mask on its travels through Europe.

Silke is a true people-person and finds day-to-day enjoyment while walking about the museum and partaking in other activities that allow her to interact with guests. She easily draws people into her tales by sharing her knowledge and joy of the artifacts.

In her own words, Silke describes the museum as “A joyous place! It rewards educating people about a time so long ago, but is still so vivid in everyone’s eyes. Who doesn’t know something about ancient Egypt? It’s rewarding being able to bring it to life and make it real for our guests.”

Danke Sehr! Silke for your volunteer service at the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum!

Ushabti of the Chief Sculptor, Men

2008-10-13T11:32:00.000-07:00

Ushabti of the Chief Sculptor, Men
c. 1375 BCE
RC 2084
Fine limestone, pigment

This statuette of a man, named “Men” may have belonged to the father-and-son team of Men and Bak, who were court sculptors for the pharaoh Amenhotep III, and later his son, King Akhenaten and is one of the finest surviving examples of a miniature mummiform statuette.

This large, brightly colored figure is a fine example of how most Egyptian statuary originally looked. The beautiful color on this ushabti has survived intact for over three thousand years. The paint on most surviving Egyptian statues has worn away.

The word ushabti is ancient Egyptian and may also be seen written as shabti, ushebtis or shawabtis. Ushabti may have been derived from the Egyptian word Swb, "stick" originally, and perhaps reinterpreted as from Egyptian word wSb "answer," or "respond" in the first millennium BCE.

Ushabtis are small figures in human form inscribed with a special formula to be recited, most often from the Book of the Dead, or of figures representing the function expressed in that spell, namely, to carry out heavy manual tasks on behalf of a person in the afterlife.

This ushabti holds work tools in its hands and is inscribed with chapter 6 from the Book of the Dead and is currently on display in The Akhenaten Shrine Gallery (D) in the Rosicrucian Egyptian museum.

Recipe for Fig Cakes

2008-09-30T09:00:00.000-07:00

With an abundance of Figs in Ancient Egypt, many delicious dishes were created. Here is a modern version of an ancient delight! If we recall how costly and labor intensive the importing of spices was from foreign lands, we can be very grateful for the ease with which we obtain these items today.

1 package figs

1 cup slivered almonds

1 cup chopped walnuts

Nutmeg

Cinnamon

Honey

With a mortar and pestle, or small food processor, grind almonds into small pieces. Set almonds aside. Grind walnuts until they are a paste consistency; add a small amount of water if needed. Set walnut paste aside. Grind figs, almond paste, a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg, and a small amount of water. Roll the mixture into small one inch balls. Coat the balls with ground up almonds. Enjoy the sweet and healthy treat by dipping the fig balls in honey.

Henna in Ancient China!

2008-09-25T08:00:00.000-07:00

October 5 Henna Workshop: Henna in Ancient China

The upcoming Henna Workshop will be held on October 5, and will explore the use of henna in China, as well as the ancient art of tattooing that has also been practiced there for thousands of years as another form of body decoration. We will even study the beautiful body art found on Chinese mummies!

Henna Workshop Background

Henna is a plant dye that has been used by many cultures throughout history to decorate the skin. The leaves of the henna plant, when dried and powdered, are mixed with an acidic liquid such as lemon juice. This mixture can be applied to the skin in designs and patterns, and will temporarily dye the skin an orange-brown color.

Every month, the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum holds a Henna Workshop where, in addition to making and applying their own henna, guests will learn about the use of henna by a particular culture in history.

For September, we explored the use of henna by the Minoan civilization, a culture that inhabited the island of Crete in the Aegean Sea during the Bronze Age. The Minoans were a peaceful civilization that gave women a relatively prominent role in society. They built palaces at various sites in Crete, which included beautiful wall frescoes. These sites have provided us with the majority of our knowledge about Minoan culture.

One of the most striking qualities of Minoan culture is the art, where motifs of geometric patterns and natural subjects covered the surfaces of walls and pottery in sophisticated compositions. These included geometric patterns used in the “Palace Style” as well as beautiful depictions of marine animals such as dolphins, octopi and fish, known as the “Marine Style.”

We know that the Minoans had extensive contact with Egypt; Minoan art shows some Egyptian influence, and characteristically Minoan-style paintings have actually been found in ancient Egyptian structures. Texts from the period as well as art depicting women with red markings on their skin confirm that the Minoans used henna as a form of body decoration, probably utilizing designs similar to those used in their art.

As part of the workshop, guests learn to mix and apply their own henna. If you would like to use henna at home, here is a henna recipe:

Henna powder (available at most Indian grocery stores or online)

Lemon juice (or other acidic liquid - Coca-Cola will work too)

Sugar

Tea Tree Oil (or other essential oil of your preference)- this is optional

Plastic sandwich bag

Directions:

Mix about 1 tablespoon of henna powder with about a teaspoon of sugar.

Add lemon juice to create a paste a little thicker than cake batter.

Add a few drops of essential oil, if desired. Tea tree oil works best to
darken the henna stain.

Cover and allow to sit for at least 15 minutes (an hour or so is preferable).

Put henna into plastic bag and cut a tiny piece off of one corner of bag.

Apply henna to skin using bag as applicator (like decorating a cake!). For darkest stain, leave on overnight.

Do not remove henna until it has dried. When removing henna, scrape it off or wipe with oil (such as olive oil). The longer you avoid exposing the area to water, the longer the stain will last.

The Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum’s Henna Workshop is held on the first Sunday of every month. Complimentary tickets are available at the museum’s front desk on the day of the workshop, and are given on a first-come, first-served basis. Space is limited, so make sure to come early to reserve your seat!

Pumpkins in the Park

2008-09-24T18:00:00.000-07:00

Discovery Meadow
Guadalupe River Park & Gardens
Saturday, October 11, 2008
10:00 am - 4:00 pm

Join the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum and Planetarium as we celebrate “Pumpkins in the Park” at Guadalupe Park and River Gardens. This event is family friendly and a great way to begin the fall festival season.

This year our booth will give both children and parents the chance to create Anubis, Bastet and Egyptian Pumpkin masks. Fall was a time for celebrating the bountiful splendor of the Nile river valley, and although the ancient Egyptians did not grow pumpkins, they did have other types of squash, legumes and veggies.

Here, you will find more information on Pumpkins in the Park as well as a schedule of activities. Included are a Scarecrow Making Contest, live entertainment and lots of good food!

Fall Festival

2008-09-12T13:47:00.000-07:00

Saturday and Sunday September 20-21, 2008

September in ancient Egypt was a time of great excitement. The waters of the Nile were beginning to recede and everyone was getting ready to plant the crops. To celebrate this exciting time the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum and Planetarium will be holding a Fall Festival full of exciting activities for everyone! This festival will feature a variety of fun family friendly events including hands-on workshops, special lectures and classes, and even an up close and personal look at some artifacts rarely seen by the public! Full event details and schedule.

Saturday activities will include:

Historical Talks
Tomb Tours
Peace Garden Tour
Armbands Workshop
Kids Archaeology Dig Outside
Planetarium Shows
Pottery Class
Visit to the Rosicrucian Research Library
Harvest Race

Full Saturday Schedule here.

m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m

Sunday activities will include:

Historical Talks
Tomb Tours
Planetarium Shows
Tour of Rosicrucian Park
Hieroglyphic Workshop
Kids Archaeology Dig Outside
Lil’ Scarabs Touch Box Activity (actually handle selected ancient items!)
Kids and Family jewelry in ancient Egypt class with jewelry making
History Detectives Kids Investigation

Full Sunday Schedule here.

Please join us for this celebration of the Fall! For Questions, please email us.

Thursday Nights in September

2008-09-05T16:04:00.000-07:00

Thursday Evenings in Egypt continue at the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum during September!

As you may know, the Museum is now open until 8:00 pm each Thursday for your visiting convenience. In addition to our regular exhibits, please join us at the Rosicrucian Museum and Planetarium on Thursday evenings for very special family-friendly talks and tours. Each Thursday will feature a new theme of ancient Egyptian history and culture to explore.

Upcoming Thursdays during September:

September 11:
The Glory of the Gods:

5:00 Tomb Tour
5:30 Seth & Nephthys: Two Egyptian Gods
6:00 Osiris: Lord of the Afterlife
6:30 Isis: the Magical Queen
7:00 Tomb Tour
7:30 Horus: the God of Kingship

September 18:
Great Discoveries:

5:00 Tomb Tour
5:30 The Rosetta Stone
6:00 The Step Pyramid
6:30 The Child Mummy Sherit
7:00 Tomb Tour
7:30 Tutankhamen and his family

Thursday Nights in Egypt

2008-08-22T08:11:00.000-07:00

Introducing Thursday Evenings in Egypt at the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum!

As you may know, the Museum is now open until 8:00 pm each Thursday for your visiting convenience. In addition to our regular exhibits, please join us at the Rosicrucian Museum and Planetarium on Thursday evenings for very special family-friendly talks and tours. Each Thursday will feature a new theme of ancient Egyptian history and culture to explore.

Thursdays during the next two weeks:

August 28
Mummy Mania:

5:00 pm The Mummification Process
5:30 pm Tomb Tour
6:00 pm Shabtis: those statuettes you’ve wondered about (left)
6:30 Our Child Mummy
7:00 pm Our Animal Mummies (see above, left)
7:30 pm Tomb Tour

To learn more about Mummy Mania in our culture, you may wish to listen to our Podcast on Mummy Mania by Dr. Jasmine Day.

Here's a video preview of one of the Mummies you will see!

September 4
A Royal Evening:

5:00 pm Tomb Tour
5:30 pm Cleopatra: A Remarkable Woman (left)
6:00 pm Kingship: How the Egyptians Ruled
6:30 pm Akhenaton: the Inspired Rebel
7:00 pm Tomb Tour
7:30 pm Ramses II: Builder and Publicist

Here's a glimpse of some of the Royal Objects you will see!

Visit us at the Tapestry Arts Festival!

2008-08-18T17:49:00.000-07:00

Tapestry Arts Festival:
August 30 – September 1, 2008
Downtown San Jose

Join the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum and the Rosicrucian Order, AMORC as we celebrate the 33rd annual Tapestry Arts Festival in downtown San Jose. Tapestry Arts began in 1976 as part of the US’s bicentennial celebration and continues to this day with the annual Tapestry Arts Festival each Labor Day Weekend. The festival is a three-day celebration of the visual and performing arts held on the streets of downtown San Jose with proceeds funding scholastic and community art education / outreach programs.

We will have two booths, one for the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum and one for the Rosicrucian Order, AMORC, located in the “Creativity Zone,” near where Park Avenue crosses the Guadalupe River.

The Museum booth will offer visitors a chance to stamp their names in hieroglyphic on faux papyrus and put them in a custom Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum & Planetarium magnetic picture frame to keep. Indulge your creativity or just stop by for a chat!

Members of the Rosicrucian Order, AMORC will be available to talk about the Order and its educational work worldwide, with explanatory materials, information about free public resources, etc.

Public Transport to the downtown Festival area is very easy! The Convention Center Station is the closest stop to the festival and is served by both light rail lines. Many bus lines and the Dash bus also serve the area. If you are driving, San Jose provides convenient parking alternatives in the area.

The festival runs

August 30 through September 1 (Saturday-Monday):

Saturday: 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
Sunday: 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
Monday: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm

Attractions include live music, food, kids’ and grownups’ physical activities, an indoor home and garden show and plenty of fun and exciting arts and crafts!

Please come by our Booths and join in the fun and learning!

Initiatic Journey to Egypt

2008-06-13T15:37:00.000-07:00

Mark Your Calendar!
INITIATIC JOURNEY TO EGYPT

Join Grand Master Julie Scott, other Rosicrucians, and friends on this inspiring Rosicrucian journey through Egypt, visiting Cairo, Luxor, and other cities of great importance in the Rosicrucian tradition.

View itinerary

Book Tour

FEATURED RECIPE – BASBOUSA

2008-03-20T18:21:00.000-07:00

Looking for a quick and easy dessert recipe? Show your friends and family how special they are with this recipe for basbousa, a savory treat enjoyed in Egypt and throughout the Near East.

BASBOUSA INGREDIENTS:

Syrup Ingredients:

2 1/4 cups sugar
1 1/2 cups water
juice from 1 lemon (or 2 tablespoons orange juice)
1 teaspoon honey(optional)

Cake Ingredients:

2 cups semolina
1 cup sugar
1 stick butter, softened
1 cup whole milk
1 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 tablespoon baking soda
2 eggs
blanched split almonds
whipped cream (optional)

PREPARATION:

Prepare syrup first. Dissolve sugar in water in a medium saucepan. Add lemon juice and bring to a boil. Once the syrup begins to boil, add in honey. Reduce heat and allow to slowly boil for about 8-10 minutes.Remove from heat and set aside.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Lightly grease and flour a 9x12 baking dish.

Cream together butter and sugar in a mixing bowl. Add eggs and vanilla.

In a separate bowl, combine semolina, baking powder, and baking soda. Slowly add to butter and egg mixture. Stir in milk.

Pour mixture into baking dish and smooth with spoon.

Take a butter knife and make diagonal lines from left to right and complete to make diamond shapes. Place an almond in the center of each diamond. Bake for 25 minutes.

Remove cake from oven and pour syrup over cake until no more can be absorbed. Allow to cool for 20 minutes.

Serve immediately with a dollop of whipped cream.

Roman Period Crocodile Lamp, RC 28

2008-01-31T21:53:00.000-08:00

One of the oldest of the Egyptian deities is the crocodile-god Sobek. Sobek became widely worshipped in Egypt after the 12^th Dynasty, especially in the swamps and wetlands of Lower Egypt. Several temples were dedicated to the worship of this god including those at Kom Ombo, Medinet El-Fayum, and Gebelein. These temples often featured a shallow pool in which sacred crocodiles were kept. Upon death, they were mummified and interred in sacred coffins.

This bronze oil lamp honors Sobek and dates to the Roman Period (30 BCE-395 CE.) Two eyelets indicate it was intended for suspension from a rope or chain. It would have been filled with tallow using the hole on the crocodile’s back and would have been lit near the snout, where another hole can be observed. Bronze casting techniques were well developed throughout the ancient world by this period and this is reflected in the artist’s execution of the rough skin and serrated tail of this revered creature.

A Banner Year for Egyptology

2007-12-31T18:57:00.000-08:00

As reported in the world press the field of Egyptology experienced many successes and extraordinary discoveries during the year just past.

Several of these include:

The first part of the Supreme Council of Antiquities’ comprehensive plan to conserve the Step Pyramid of Djoser began.

The mummy of Hatshepsut, the most famous female monarch of Egypt, was definitively identified.

Kuttub Khana at Bab Al-Khalq, a 19th century landmark, was fully restored.

The Kingdom fortress was discovered in Sinai.

A undisturbed tomb was discovered with many funerary pieces in excellent condition

Paleolithic wall art of animals was discovered in Upper Egypt.

Tutankhamun’s real face was finally shown publically in November on the 85th Anniversary of the finding of his tomb

Step Pyramid of Djoser: There had long been concern that the build-up of sand and general disrepair were endangering the integrity of this very important site at Saqqara. A good way to experience the vastness of this site is the Djoser Step Pyramid Model in Gallery D of the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum. You can learn more about Imhotep’s revolutionary design through our Podcast on this ancient site.

In March of 2007, Egyptian Culture Minister Farouk Hosni reported the start of restoration work. Dr. Zahi Hawwas, the Secretary-General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities explained that this is the first such project to conserve the step pyramid and the southern tomb. It will be accomplished in three stages: First, during 2007, a thorough cleaning of the interior and exterior of pyramid inside and outside with removal of sand and dust was accomplished. Materials fallen or scattered were collected, restored and returned to their original location, while materials too damaged for use were replaced with casts.

Stages two and three, including the restoration of tunnels, corridors and ceilings of the underground galleries of the pyramid, and above the bedrock, the primary burial shaft, will take place in subsequent years, at a total cost of approximately $4.5 million dollars.

Hatshepsut Identified: As reported in our Museum Blog last October, Dr. Zahi Hawass, undertook a scientific search for Hatshepsut last year. During the course of this process he examined and analyzed four female mummies, including the anonymous mummy from KV 60. Much of the team’s analysis hinged on a single molar sealed inside a box that was inscribed with Hatshepsut’s name. Teeth are similar to fingerprints, as the precise size of a person’s teeth is unique to that person. To the surprise of many of those involved, the tooth inside the inscribed box matched the anonymous mummy from KV 60 down to a fraction of millimeter. “Not only was the … lady from KV 60 missing a tooth, but the hole left behind and the type of tooth that was missing were an exact match for the loosened one in the box,” reported Dr. Hawass. An excellent summary of the century long search for Hatshepsut may be found at Egyptomania.

Kuttub Khana: At the historic Gate of Creation in Cairo, the exquisite 19th century buildings have now been fully restored, and will now serve as Egypt’s National Museum with rare items and research materials. A Museum has also been established to focus on Egypt’s role in Islamic culture.

New Kingdom Fort found in the Sinai: The largest Egyptian fortress in the Sinai yet found was discovered by chance in the summer of 2007, as Egyptian archeologists came across the fort of Tharo East. in the area of Qantara East. The dimensions of this new discovery, are quite impressive: 1640 feel long, 820 feel wide, with over 42 foot thick walls. The southern entrance was over 39 feet wide. A moat, once filled with water, surrounds the fort. Dr. Hawass emphasized how this discovery shows that the events during the reign of Seti I depicted on the north wall of the Hypostyle Hall at Karnak Temple are accurate.

Undisturbed Tomb comes to Light: The tomb of Henu, a mid-level official of the late First Intermediate Period was discovered in necropolis of Deir Al-Barsha in Minya. While the discovery of a new tomb is always news, the difference is that this seems to have been unmolested by vandals or thieves, and so has a rich cache of grave goods. The accidental find by the Belgian team from the Katholieke Leuven University reveals not only a number of artifacts, but also a particularly rare model of workers making mud bricks. This later tomb is in an area previously thought to house only Old Kingdom Tombs.

Paleolithic Animal Paintings: In the late spring of 2007, a team of Belgian archeologists were working at Qurta, Kom Ombo, in Upper Egypt. Here is their story, as reported by Anthropology.net, from Al-Ahram:

“The story of the discovery began two months ago when a Belgian archaeological mission from the Royal Museum of Art and History, financed by Yale University, resumed its intensive archaeological survey on the Nubian-sandstone cliffs at Qurta. While carrying out their routine survey, excavators stumbled upon three rock art sites spreading over a distance of about two kilometres on the eastern side of Qurta. Entitled Qurta I, II and III, each site contains several prehistoric rocks bearing a rich collection of Palaeolithic illustrations featuring a large number of bovids, hippopotami, birds and human figures.

"Bovids are the most common animals depicted in the illustrations, with at least 111 representations in different positions. Of other animals there are seven examples of birds, three hippopotami, three gazelles and two fish. There are also 10 highly stylised human figures shown with pronounced buttocks, but with no other distinct bodily features.

"All the rock art images are very darkly coloured and seem to be covered by a substantially developed varnish. Most of the images also have traces of intensive weathering through Aeolian abrasion and water run-off."

The images. estimated at 15,000 years old, are strikingly reminiscent of those from the Magdalenian European culture, best known in the caves in France, including Lascaux and the Grotte de Niaux (which the Rosicrucian trip to France visited in August of 2007) and Altamira in Spain. The question arises whether there might have been some trans-Mediterranean contact between these peoples, or if this represents a larger, pan-early-human cultural characteristic. Different from the European rock art, however, these examples are not in caves, but on large stones in open air.

Tutankhamun: 85 years to the day after the discovery of Tutankhamun's tomb by Howard Carter, his mummy was placed on public display in November 4, 2007 for the first time. The mummy, wrapped in linen (since Carter had dismembered the mummy in a search for amulets), has been removed from his gold Casket and placed in a temperature and humidity controlled plexi-glass case, in his tomb at Luxor. The mummified face and feet of this young King is now in public view for the first time. The move was necessary to protect the mummy from the humidity and heat generated by the large number of visitors.

In addition, in September of 2007, eight baskets of doum fruit, a common funeral offering, were discovered in Tutankhamun's tomb, as well as fifty clay pots bearing the royal seal. Dr. Hawass has said that the pots will be opened and examined soon.

Volunteer of the Year - Kaman Law

2007-12-30T18:41:00.000-08:00

Kaman Law began volunteering at the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum & Planetarium in November 2004. She is one of the hardest working and most reliable volunteers at Rosicrucian Park. Her dedication and excellent customer service make her a vital part of the daily operations in the Museum. Kaman thrives in whatever she takes on as her hardworking and positive nature carries her through a myriad of tasks.

In the summer of 2006, Kaman lent wonderful support at our five-day park-wide event, the Epagomenal Festival. She was always willing to be of service as she effortlessly moved from helping set up garden booths, to playing the Egyptian game Senet with guests, to giving public lectures. Kaman has also assisted with many of our Outreach events, such as Pumpkins in the Park, Christmas in the Park, spring in Guadalupe Gardens, the Desert Dance Festival, and more. Here she has aided the museum as a Public Representative, engaging children and adults alike with educational activities and historical information.

Adding to her versatility, Kaman has also greatly contributed to the museum through her own developed ideas. She designed and has successfully facilitated two of our weekend workshops, the Egyptian Arm Bands and the Scavenger Hunt, for over two years. Furthermore, she has aided in other workshops and events by developing new activities for our guests to enjoy, such as the Calendar Wheel and other activity worksheets. When time permitted, she has also served in the Park’s Research Library in volunteer work. When our Museum newsletter began a new section, the “Volunteer Highlight,” Kaman was the first thought on everyone’s mind.

Kaman began as a volunteer in her freshmen year of high school and, even with other programs, coursework, and a long commute; she has continued to be a very reliable and responsible volunteer in the museum. She began because of her passion for education and love of ancient cultures. Her volunteer work at the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum has helped her to become a more confident and outgoing person, as well as given her training in artifact handling, conservation principles, and a vast background in Egyptology.

Kaman is an asset and a joy to work with and we have been very fortunate to have her as a volunteer.

Leonardo Da Vinci Continues to Fascinate, Mystify and Inspire

2007-11-30T14:56:00.000-08:00

Years after the hype over The Da Vinci Code subsided, the real work of Leonardo continues to hold the public’s and scholars’ attention. Recently, several news stories and websites have reported that the intriguing Last Supper (Il Cenacolo or L'Ultima Cena) is again revealing some of its secrets.

Painted on the wall of the Refectory of Santa Maria Santa Maria delle Grazie in Milan between 1495-1498, the work was one of the first to depict the events of the story of Jesus’ last meal with his disciples in a dramatic, animated fashion. As the 2006 Rosicrucian Museum exhibit Leonardo Da Vinci: Artist, Scientist, Mystic, with a person of Leonardo’s brilliance in the arts and sciences, as well as knowledge of natural laws, it is little surprise that he left us some enigmatic messages in his works. Speculation and mystery have always surrounded certain aspects of his achievements. Some theorize that he may have been responsible for the image on the Shroud of Turin, but no conclusive evidence has yet been established.

Certainly, Leonardo was not a typical believer of the 15th-16th century. As his biographer Vasari put in his 1550 edition of the artist’s life: “his cast of mind was so heretical that he did not adhere to any religion, thinking perhaps that it was better to be a philosopher than a Christian.”

Modern biographer Marco Rosci suggests that he “adopted an empirical approach to every thought, opinion, and action and accepted no truth unless verified or verifiable, whether related to natural phenomena, human behavior, or social activities. He still pinned his faith in logical certainty, in the often-repeated affirmation that mathematics and geometry were the true foundations of knowledge.”

Leonardo followed a path of knowledge – what he could discover for himself, rather than belief in what someone else had told him. Throughout the centuries many have wondered whether he encoded some of his thoughts and ideas into his art. One famous examples of this is in his paintings, The Last Supper.

In The Last Supper, the figure to Jesus’ right has traditionally been identified as John, “the beloved disciple.” However, some have speculated (most recently, Dan Brown in The DaVinci Code) that this indistinct figure is, in fact, Mary Magdalene, whom some claim to be the wife of Jesus. Others also point out that the raised finger gesture by the Apostle to Jesus’ left may be a hostile sign, intended by Leonardo to criticize the official positions of the Christianity of his time.

Additional enigmas include the “space” between Jesus and the figure to his right, and also the “third hand” gripping a knife near the Apostle Peter. Finally, an oddity for a Passover Meal, there appears no lamb on the table. This last detail has recently been corroborated by Pope Benedict XVI in his homily on Holy Thursday in Rome (as well as in his spring 2007 book Jesus of Nazareth), where he suggested that Jesus celebrated the Passover on the Essene Calendar, and that Jesus’ family were associated with the Essenes. The Essenes were vegetarians, and this would account for the absence of lamb. This aspect is more thoroughly discussed in the December 2007 issue of the Rosicrucian Digest: The Essenes.

Even more controversially, Spanish author Javier Sierra’s highly enjoyable novel The Secret Supper , first published in English in 2006, links Leonardo’s masterpiece to an ancient tradition that worked in opposition to the Church of Peter. Sierra even gives an explanation for Leonardo’s unusual technique of painting the scene on a dry wall rather than on wet plaster, by laying down a sealing layer of pitch, gesso and mastic, then painting onto this with tempera, which has caused the masterpiece to weather the ages poorly.

Modern scientific techniques have now entered the arena in a major way, with the recent announcements of new scanning and analysis tools. Mauro Gavinelli and a scientific team at the art photography firm HAL9000 have taken 1,677 panoramic images of the Last Supper at a resolution of 16-billion-pixels, a definition that is 1,600 times finer than that from a 10 mega-pixel camera.

Earlier scientific analysis of Leonardo’s works have revealed startling details under the pigments. One example is the Adoration of the Magi (1481). In the Uffizi Gallery, Florence. Recent studies by Dr. Maurizio Seracini have revealed layers beneath the painting with long concealed figures.

Another example of the mysteries hidden underneath paintings in the Uffizi Gallery, not by Leonardo, but of him, is a Portrait of Leonardo DaVinci. Created by an unknown artist at the end of the 17^th century, it has been in the Uffizi Gallery since 1715 and now it is exhibited in the Vasari Corridor. X-rays revealed some years ago that there is another subject under this portrait (which may be a 17^th century painting of Mary Magdalene). This portrayal of Leonardo has become one of the most familiar in the world. An oil copy by W.K. Fisher (1940) hangs in the Rosicrucian Research Library in San José.

It is likely that we will never know specifically what Leonardo was trying to convey through these ambiguities in his works. Nevertheless, we can certainly know that his own mysticism and spirituality, as expressed in all of his work, was dedicated to discovering the laws that govern the universe and humanity, and to conveying those laws through beauty and inventiveness to those who have eyes to see and ears to hear.

Pharaoh Hatshepsut's Mummy Positively Identified

2007-10-16T11:01:00.000-07:00

Howard Carter was most famous for his discovery of King Tutankhamun’s tomb. However, unbeknownst to him, he also was responsible for the discovery of one of Egypt’s most famous kings, the pharaoh Hatshepsut. In 1902 Howard Carter entered theTomb KV 60. The tomb itself had been robbed in antiquity. Little was left inside, aside from some mummified geese. However, there were two female mummies that remained in the tomb. One had the name Sitre-In, Hatshepsut’s wet nurse, written on it. The other female mummy was anonymous. Years later the mummy of Sitre-In was removed, but the anonymous mummy remained inside the tomb undisturbed until 1990. It was then that speculation about the mummy’s true identity began to circulate. A group of Egyptologists began to suspect that the anonymous mummy might indeed have been that of the famous female pharaoh Hatshepsut. They based their theory on the facts that the mummy had a bent left arm, often associated with royalty, and that it wore a wooden face piece, which may have been used to attach the false beard that the female pharaoh was often depicted wearing. Others adamantly refuted this theory, stating that the anonymous mummy was of an elderly, obese women, a description that did not match with the conventional picture of the female pharaoh. Dr. Zahi Hawass, the Secretary General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities in Egypt, undertook a scientific search for Hatshepsut last year. During the course of this process he examined and analyzed four female mummies, including the anonymous mummy from KV 60. Much of the team’s analysis hinged on a single molar sealed inside a box that was inscribed with Hatshepsut’s name. Teeth are similar to fingerprints, as the precise size of a person’s teeth is unique to that person. To the surprise of many of those involved, the tooth inside the inscribed box matched the anonymous mummy from KV 60 down to a fraction of millimeter. “Not only was the … lady from KV 60 missing a tooth, but the hole left behind and the type of tooth that was missing were an exact match for the loosened one in the box,” Dr. Hawass stated. This discovery provides scholars with new information for an examination of the history of this pharaoh. Hatshepsut’s mummy shows an obese woman between forty-five and sixty years old upon death. Aside from having poor dental health, the mummy shows that Hatshepsut suffered from cancer in the pelvic and spinal regions. Further DNA tests on the mummy will be conducted and compared with the DNA results from other members of the 18th Dynasty, including that of Hatshepsut’s grandmother, Ahmose-Nefertari. As the archaeological and forensic scientific fields continue to advance, we may look forward to future outstanding discoveries, rediscoveries, and new ways of expanding our knowledge of one of the greatest civilizations of all time.

Hatshepsut Bead and Cylinder Seal, RC 1114

2007-10-15T13:06:00.000-07:00

With the recent identification of the mummy of the pharaoh Hatshepsut, this remarkable ruler has once again captured the public’s attention. She ruled for approximately twenty two years, first as Regent for her step-son Thutmose III, and later as co-pharaoh with him. Although a female pharaoh was unusual in ancient Egypt, it was not entirely unprecedented, as history includes among the female rulers of Egypt, Pharaoh Sobeknefru who had reigned as a king of the 12th Dynasty, and others. This would later occur again, most notably in the case of the last ruling pharaoh, Cleopatra VII. Scholars are still studying the records for evidence of additional women rulers in Egypt’s ancient past. It has long been known that women in general held higher status in Egypt than in the lands surrounding it. This included the ability to own property, have an equal voice in legal proceedings, and having control of the household industries which produced linen, bread, beer, and other items vital to Egypt’s economic life. The Hatshepsut Bead and Cylinder Seal in the Museum’s collection came to us from the Rustafjaell estate in 1989. The tiny and elegant piece stands 2.3 centimeters high, made from glazed steatite metal (soapstone), blue on the cylinder base with a gold colored bead surmounting the small column. It is currently displayed in our Religion and Kingship Gallery (C) in the Museum. The cylinder body is engraved with Hatshepsut’s royal cartouche with her Prename, “Marat Ka Re,” that is, “Truth is the Ka of Re.” The Cylinder could have been used as a signature seal, and also as an amulet, as the name of the Pharaoh was considered to have great power for such uses.

Henna Workshop

2007-10-14T12:17:00.000-07:00

Henna is a potent natural dye that comes from the dried, crushed leaves of the henna shrub. It has been used for thousands of years and across many cultures in medicines, textiles, perfumes, and to paint designs on the body. Archaeological research indicates that henna was first used to stain the fingertips and toes of the mummified pharaohs, but many other peoples probably used henna as well, believing in its beauty and spiritual benefit. We know that the Egyptians hennaed their hair and nails to strengthen and condition, but it is difficult to know if they hennaed designs similar to other cultures, as henna designs fade in a couple of weeks. Tattooing, however, was practiced since the Middle Kingdom. Mummies of dancers have elaborate geometric patterns while musicians typically have the god Bes tattooed on their bodies, so one can speculate that henna was similarly used. Ancient Egyptian women also wore henna, perfumes, and cosmetics to honor Hathor, the goddess of beauty. It was believed that these materials painted on the body would transcend into spiritual means and Hathor’s presence and energy could be felt by the women of ancient Egypt. Henna could have also been used on the mummified pharaohs to help preserve them. Henna would have strengthened the bodies while also deterring fungal growth, making its use very practical. So, henna, with its many healing properties and connection with temple practices as well as everyday life, was spiritual as well as practical for the ancient Egyptians.

The Museum’s Henna Workshop details the history of henna and its various functions, as it expanded from ancient Egypt to other cultures. Instruction and application will follow the talk with designs to reflect the culture discussed. Join us the first Sunday of every month at 12:30 pm, to explore a new culture and discover how henna was used in the past and how we can use it today.

Modern Henna Formulas for Hair

2007-10-13T12:35:00.000-07:00

Looking for an ancient hair coloring?

Try this formula featured in our Henna Workshops:

What do you need to mix a simple henna paste? Not much! You’ll need a container, a plastic spoon, henna powder, and lemon juice. Keep stirring and adding the sour liquid. Some henna needs a lot of liquid, some needs less, so there’s no way to say “add precisely THIS amount of liquid.” Add whatever sour liquid you want to use, a little bit at a time, stirring it in. When your henna paste is a little thinner than mashed potatoes, you’ve stirred in enough sour liquid for a start. Cover the henna paste with plastic wrap, press out all the air, and let it rest for a while. Mix ingredients to make a thick paste. Leave overnight in plastic baggie for dye release. Apply evenly to hair and leave in for 2-4 hours, wrapping hair if desired.

Ingredients

For light orange/red hair:
1 Tbsp henna
1 Tbsp Amla
1 Tbsp honey
1 Tbsp apple juice
½ c. vanilla yogurt
OR
120 grams henna
lemon juice
red tea (rooibos, or raspberry)
2 Tbsp ground cloves

For bright red hair:
100 grams henna
orange juice
slight dash of white vinegar
15 drops of tea tree oil
¼ c. paprika
OR
100 grams henna
250 ml red wine
3 ½ capfuls tea tree oil
lemon rooibos tea
25 grams powdered pectin

For dark red hair:
100 grams henna
lemon juice
lavender water
strong black tea
OR
100 grams henna
2 spoonfuls lemon juice
Madagascar red vanilla tea
1 capful dark green olive oil

For Dark Henna/Indigo hair:
Mix your favorite henna paste formula and set aside overnight. Mix indigo with water and set aside. Mix indigo and henna together and then apply to hair.

You can get other formulas like this by participating in our Henna Workshop the first Sunday of every month.

Volunteer of the Month: Lily Van Osdol

2007-10-10T12:59:00.000-07:00

For the past two years, Lily Van Osdol has been a helpful and delightful asset as one of the volunteers at the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum. She has assisted with several museum events, including the 75th Anniversary, where she helped paint pillars for our exhibit; the Epagomenal Festival, where she assisted with public booths and children’s activities; as well as many outreach events where she has aided in promoting the Museum in our community. She also assists with our Cooking and Armband Workshop on Saturdays. In her spare time, you’ll usually find her playing the ancient Egyptian game Sent with some guests. Lily began volunteering for the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum because of her great interest in history and ancient cultures. Her favorite part of the Museum is our Mesopotamia Room, located in the Daily Life Gallery (B) in the Museum, where she enjoys exploring the ancient cultures of the Near East. We have been very fortunate to have Lily as a volunteer here at the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum as her positive and hard working nature have added a delightful experience for both the Museum and its guests.

If you are interesting in becoming a volunteer at Rosicrucian Park, please call (408) 947.3683 or email: volunteers@egyptianmuseum.org.