A rare ancient Egyptian mummy portrait known as the Tondo of the Two Brothers will be exhibited in Rome for the first time, marking a significant event in cultural cooperation between Egypt and Italy. The 2nd-century wood panel painting, part of the Fayum mummy portrait tradition from Roman-era Egypt, depicts two figures believed to be brothers and is distinguished by its portrayal of two individuals rather than the more common single-subject format.

The portrait will be displayed at the Ara Pacis, a monument commemorating the military victories of Emperor Augustus, as part of a larger exhibition of nearly fifty Fayum portraits opening on November 6. Alongside the Tondo, the exhibition will feature funerary masks, marble sculptures, plaster casts, and ancient jewellery, many of which are international loans.

The painting underwent a three-week restoration involving joint efforts between Italian specialists and conservators from the Egyptian Museum, where the work is usually housed. The restoration aimed to stabilize the delicate wooden panel and paint surface and to enhance facial details that had faded over centuries.

Sherif Fathy, Egypt’s Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, highlighted the restoration as a notable achievement in international cultural heritage preservation. He emphasized that the project underscores long-standing historical and cultural ties between Egypt and Italy and reflects a collaborative approach to safeguarding exceptional artworks for future generations.

The exhibition at Ara Pacis will run until May 2, offering visitors an opportunity to view this rare example of funerary art, which traditionally adorned the faces of the deceased. The loan of the Tondo of the Two Brothers marks its first international appearance, adding a new dimension to the understanding and appreciation of Roman-era Egyptian funerary customs.