Egypt & Italy Restore Fayoum 'Portrait of the Two Brothers'

Egyptian and Italian experts have completed the restoration of the ancient Fayoum Portrait of the Two Brothers, unveiling the work at the Egyptian Museum in Cairo.

The circular portrait, which measures around 60 centimetres in diameter, was created by an unknown artist in the Fayoum region roughly 2,000 years ago. It was found split into two parts with faded colours and underwent conservation work in the museum’s laboratories and restoration centre.

The unveiling formed part of a wider Egyptian-Italian cooperation programme focused on Fayoum portraits. The accompanying exhibition includes 24 portraits and 16 artefacts, while the restored Portrait of the Two Brothers is scheduled to travel to Italy next May as part of a collection of Fayoum works.

Secretary-General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities Hisham El-Leithy said Fayoum portraits occupy an important place in art history because of their realistic depiction of individuals. He added that the Egyptian Museum, which marks the 124th anniversary of its opening this year, is also preparing a rehabilitation project and major celebration for its 125th anniversary in 2027.