This is Ali’s account of a visit to London in June 2023 to carry out research for his doctoral thesis, ‘‘A Study of Five Unpublished Coffins in the Grand Egyptian Museum’. For a full list of scholars awarded places to carry out research in London in 2023, please see here.

A Memorable Month in London: My Experience with the Robert Anderson Trust

In the Egyptian sculpture gallery at the British Museum

I had the amazing opportunity to spend the entire month of June 2023 in London as a PhD researcher with support of the Robert Anderson Trust. This scholarship provided me with a unique chance to explore the academic and cultural wonders of London, engage with renowned scholars, and immerse myself in the vibrant city. In this blog post, I will share the highlights of my participation in the Robert Anderson scholarship, and the impact it had on my personal and academic growth.

From the moment I arrived at the Trust house in Kensington, I was warmly welcomed by Dr. Chris Naunton, the director of Robert Anderson Research Charitable Trust. His support and assistance throughout the entire preparation process made my transition to London seamless and enjoyable. His kind reception and unwavering support made me feel instantly at ease.

At Wellington Arch, close to the Trust’s house in Kensington

As a PhD student studying and publishing five coffins from the excavations of the Egyptian Mission working in Saqqara, my primary focus during my stay was conducting research at the UCL institute of Archaeology Library and the British Museum. I cannot express enough gratitude to Professor Stephen Quirke, who went above and beyond to help me. From facilitating access to the library and issuing the ID to his weekly follow-up of what I do in scientific institutions and institutes in London and facilitating communication with professors to meet me his guidance was invaluable.

In the British Museum, I had the privilege of meeting John Taylor, despite his retirement. I am immensely grateful that he took the time to meet with me. In our meeting, I had the opportunity to present my PhD project, which focuses on translating hieroglyphic texts depicted on coffins. We engaged in insightful discussions and exchanged opinions regarding various texts and scenes, particularly concerning the dating of these coffins. I greatly valued John Taylor’s perspectives and insights, as his extensive knowledge and experience had a profound impact on my understanding of the coffins I am studying.

With Dr John Taylor of the Department of Egypt and Sudan, British Museum

Exploring the numerous museums, Exhibitions, and Archives in London was an integral part of my experience. One of the highlights of my visit was the warm reception and generous access granted to me by my colleagues at the Petrie Museum. Each museum offered a unique display approach, allowing me to gain valuable insights into different curatorial methods. Moreover, my encounters with the diverse cultural landscape of England will significantly contribute to my ongoing project at Mansoura Storage Museum.

In addition to the numerous museum visits and exhibitions I visited, the moment I laid eyes on Seti I’s sarcophagus preserved in the Sir John Soane’s Museum was truly indescribable. This particular sarcophagus held immense significance for me as I had extensively studied it during my master’s degree. My research focused on the depiction of the Book of Gates on monuments in the New Kingdom period. Seti I’s sarcophagus, with its complete copy of the Book of Gates, served as a central focal point in my master’s study. The opportunity to witness it in person was a profound and unforgettable experience.

At Soane’s Museum

The entire month proved to be an extraordinary experience in every aspect. Alongside the academic endeavors, I was fortunate enough to have the opportunity to fully immerse myself in a culturally and intellectually stimulating environment, thanks to the diverse group of scholars who were in the Trust’s house. Additionally, I seized the opportunity to explore various Sightseeing activities destinations and parks on walking or by bicycle during my free times and weekends. Moreover, reconnecting with childhood friends who now reside in England added a sentimental touch to my journey. I am immensely grateful to Robert Anderson Trust for facilitating this unparalleled experience.

In conclusion, my month-long stay in London as a beneficiary of the Robert Anderson Trust was an experience, I will cherish for years to come. The Robert Anderson Trust has not only provided me with a remarkable experience in London but has also become an invaluable part of my academic journey. I wholeheartedly encourage fellow researchers to apply for this remarkable scholarship.

Outside the British Museum