3,000-Year-Old Statue Bears Striking Similarity to the King of Pop
A limestone bust from ancient Egypt, currently on display at Chicago’s Field Museum, has become a sensation due to its remarkable resemblance to the late pop icon Michael Jackson. Dating back to the New Kingdom Period (1550 BC – 1050 BC), this artifact has quickly become one of the museum’s most popular exhibits, drawing countless fans of the King of Pop.
The Bust’s Journey to Chicago
Purchased in Cairo by Chicago timber baron Edward E. Ayer in 1889, the statue was later donated to the Field Museum in 1899. Since 1988, it has been a part of the museum’s permanent “Inside Ancient Egypt” exhibition. Despite the absence of hieroglyphics, archaeologists have dated the bust to the reign of either King Ramesses or King Tut.
A Pilgrimage Site for Michael Jackson Fans
The ancient carving has become a pilgrimage site for many Michael Jackson enthusiasts. Some visitors even inquire about the statue before purchasing tickets, heading straight to the exhibit upon entering the museum. To protect the artifact from overzealous fans who might attempt to touch or kiss it, the bust is safely displayed behind a protective screen.
The Mystery of the Missing Nose
Interestingly, the 25 cm high by 35 cm wide limestone carving actually depicts a woman. The absence of the statue’s nose has sparked much discussion. A museum curator explained that early Christians and Muslims often defaced Egyptian statues, removing noses to make them “non-human” and discourage idolatry.
“Remember the Time” Connection
Many visitors draw a connection between the statue and Michael Jackson’s 1993 hit “Remember the Time,” whose music video was set in ancient Egypt. This coincidence adds to the intrigue surrounding the bust’s appearance.
While the true identity and purpose of the statue remain unknown, its uncanny resemblance to Michael Jackson continues to fascinate visitors and fuel time travel theories. This ancient Egyptian bust at Chicago’s Field Museum stands as a testament to the enduring power of both ancient art and modern pop culture icons.
