Valerio Angiolillo

 

What (in)visible layer of meaning comes next?

Recent Acquisition of the Shabti of Senkamanisken by the Allard Pierson

 

Abstract: The Shabti of Senkamanisken (643 – 623 B.C.) is an object recently acquired by the Allard Pierson during an auction of antiquities at Christie’s, London. The shabti has a tremendous historical value, and the narratives that can be created within Allard Pierson's collection are numerous; although it has undergone a deep semiophoric change. We can talk about semiophoric changes when there are a series of passages, through decades, in which an object may go through, shifting the context from which the object was created for. Many objects changed their gist, turning into artworks as soon as they were excavated, entering within the collection's walls. What was the original shabtis' function in general, and how do they change once placed into an archaeological display? Are Nubian history and the king’s heritage in benefit from Reisner’s excavation and the Allard Pierson's acquisition in their collection?

 

Bio: Valerio Angiolillo approached drawing and other artistic expressions from an early age that led him to develop an interest in the subject. A curiosity that has increased exponentially over the years, leading him to deepen this love by choosing to study in the figurative arts of the art school in Via Ripetta. During his high school studies he approached philosophy and the history of art, which have been a source of inspiration ever since. He studied "Fine Art and History of Art" at Goldsmith University of London, graduating with First Honour in 2021. He is currently studying "Museum Studies (Heritage Studies)” at the University of Amsterdam.