Cairo – Authorities in Egypt are urgently searching for a 3,000-year-old gold bracelet, once belonging to Pharaoh Amenemope, which mysteriously disappeared from the Egyptian Museum in Cairo. The bracelet, adorned with a rare lapis lazuli bead, was last seen in the museum’s restoration laboratory in Tahrir Square. The Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities has now escalated the case to law enforcement and the public prosecution office.
The bracelet, a true symbol of ancient Egyptian craftsmanship, belonged to King Amenemope of the 21st Dynasty (c. 1076–723 BC), a lesser-known yet intriguing pharaoh originally interred in a modest tomb at Tanis. Several years after his burial, Amenemope’s body was reinterred beside Psusennes I, one of the most powerful kings of his time. His tomb was rediscovered in 1940, and the bracelet became one of the museum’s most treasured artifacts.
To prevent any smuggling, images of the missing bracelet have been distributed across airports, seaports, and land borders. The museum’s director clarified that some photos circulating online do not depict the missing item, but another artifact currently on display.
Forensic archaeologist Christos Tsirogiannis from Cambridge University, who specializes in the study of international antiquities trafficking, explained that the disappearance, while shocking, is not entirely surprising given the high demand for ancient Egyptian treasures. He outlined several possibilities: the bracelet could have been stolen and sold on the black market, melted down for gold, or hidden in a private collection. There is also a chance that it could be returned or found near the museum, as has happened in previous incidents, particularly during times of civil unrest.
The Egyptian Ministry confirmed that all artifacts in the restoration laboratory will now undergo a special inventory review by an expert committee to ensure no other items are at risk.
The theft highlights the ongoing challenges Egypt faces in protecting its cultural heritage. Illegal trade in ancient artifacts remains a significant concern, as demonstrated by recent arrests of individuals attempting to smuggle hundreds of ancient treasures from the sea floor of Abu Qir Bay near Alexandria.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the immense historical and monetary value of Egypt’s ancient artifacts, and the global fascination with the treasures of the Pharaohs. The search for Amenemope’s gold bracelet continues, captivating historians, collectors, and the public alike.
