Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art

Soulful Creatures: Animal Mummies in Ancient Egypt is on display at the Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art (BGFA) from February 13 through September 13, 2026. Organized in partnership with the Brooklyn Museum, this is the first major U.S. presentation dedicated to the mummification of animals in ancient Egypt. The exhibition brings together nearly 100 artifacts, including approximately 36 mummified animals unearthed from more than 30 cemeteries during the 19th and 20th centuries, spanning Egyptian history from as early as 760 B.C.E., alongside over 60 significant Egyptian masterworks. Curated by Yekaterina Barbash, Curator of Egyptian, Classical and Ancient Near Eastern Art, and Edward Bleiberg, Curator Emeritus, both of the Brooklyn Museum, the show features ibis birds, crocodiles, felines, and Apis bulls — animals sacred to deities such as Thoth and Bastet — displayed in elaborate gilded coffins and intricate wrappings. Modern forensic tools including CT scans and X-rays allow visitors to see beneath the wrappings. Docent-led tours are available daily at 11 a.m. for an additional fee. Gallery hours are Monday through Sunday, 10 a.m.–6 p.m., with last admissions sold 30 minutes prior to closing. No refunds are issued, but same-day re-entry is allowed. Guests under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Non-flash photography is permitted; no food, drinks, smoking, strollers, or videotaping allowed inside.