Gifts @ Penn Museum Shop: You Won't Believe What We Found!
The University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology, a treasure trove of world history, holds more than just ancient artifacts. Its gift shop, often overlooked, is a destination in itself. From replicas inspired by the museum's vast collection to items reflecting the diverse cultures represented, the university of pennsylvania museum gift shop offers truly unique finds. Don't miss the opportunity to discover items related to Egyptology which resonates with a significant portion of the museum's displays. Many of the offerings directly support the Penn Museum's educational programs and the vital work of preserving and sharing global heritage.
Image taken from the YouTube channel The Jule Museum at Auburn University , from the video titled Museum Gift Shop—something for everyone! .
Discovering Treasures: A Guide to Gifts at the Penn Museum Shop
The University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology (Penn Museum) houses incredible artifacts and stories from around the world. Naturally, the Penn Museum Gift Shop reflects this rich history and diverse collection. This guide will help you navigate the shop and discover unique treasures perfect for yourself, family, and friends. We'll focus on what makes the university of pennsylvania museum gift shop a must-visit (even if you aren't visiting the museum!).
Exploring the Shop's Diverse Collections
The Penn Museum Gift Shop isn't just about souvenirs; it's about bringing a piece of world history home with you. The shop is thoughtfully curated, offering items connected to the museum's exhibits and research.
Ancient Egypt Reimagined
Perhaps the most iconic of the museum's collections, Ancient Egypt inspires a significant portion of the gift shop's offerings.
- Jewelry: Discover replicas of ancient Egyptian jewelry, including amulets, necklaces, and earrings inspired by the gods and pharaohs. Look for pieces featuring symbols like the Ankh (key of life) and the Eye of Horus (protection).
- Figurines: Miniature statues of Egyptian deities like Isis, Osiris, and Anubis are available in various sizes and materials. They make excellent decorative pieces and conversation starters.
- Books: Dive deeper into Egyptian history and mythology with a selection of books covering everything from hieroglyphics to the construction of the pyramids.
- Stationery: Find notebooks, pens, and notecards adorned with Egyptian motifs, perfect for students, writers, or anyone who appreciates ancient art.
Cultural Artifact Replicas
Beyond Egypt, the shop boasts a selection of replicas from cultures across the globe.
- Pottery: Explore reproductions of ancient pottery from various regions, showcasing diverse styles and techniques.
- Textiles: Discover scarves, shawls, and other textiles inspired by traditional patterns and designs.
- Sculptures: Find smaller-scale replicas of sculptures and carvings from cultures around the world, representing deities, animals, and historical figures.
Items Unique to the Penn Museum
These are the items you simply can't find anywhere else, highlighting the museum's specific research and collections.
- Reproductions of Museum Artifacts: Exact or near-exact replicas of items housed in the museum's collection. This can range from small coins to scaled-down versions of larger sculptures.
- Publications and Catalogs: Scholarly books and exhibit catalogs detailing the museum's research and highlighting specific collections. These are perfect for those who want to learn more about the museum's work.
- Limited Edition Items: Keep an eye out for limited edition items released in conjunction with special exhibits or events. These are often unique and highly collectible.
Finding the Perfect Gift
Navigating the shop can feel overwhelming, but a little planning can help you find the perfect gift.
Gifts for Children
The Penn Museum Gift Shop offers a variety of engaging and educational gifts for children.
- Books and Activity Sets: Books that introduce children to different cultures and archaeological concepts, often paired with activity sets like coloring books or small puzzles.
- Toys and Games: Toys and games that encourage learning about history and geography, such as puzzles featuring maps of ancient civilizations or building blocks inspired by famous landmarks.
- Small Artifact Replicas: Durable and safe replicas of artifacts that children can handle and learn from, like small pyramids or animal figurines.
Gifts for Adults
The shop caters to a wide range of adult interests, from history buffs to art enthusiasts.
- Jewelry and Accessories: Unique and stylish jewelry inspired by ancient designs or materials.
- Home Decor: Decorative items that add a touch of history and culture to any home, such as pottery, sculptures, and textiles.
- Books and Research Materials: In-depth books and publications for those interested in learning more about specific cultures or archaeological topics.
- Fair Trade Items: Ethically sourced and handcrafted items from around the world, supporting sustainable practices and local communities.
Price Range Considerations
The Penn Museum Gift Shop offers items at various price points, allowing you to find a gift that fits your budget. The table below shows a general guideline.
| Category | Price Range (Approximate) | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Small Gifts | \$5 - \$20 | Postcards, small figurines, stationery |
| Mid-Range Gifts | \$20 - \$50 | Jewelry, small pottery replicas, books |
| Higher-End Gifts | \$50+ | Larger sculptures, textiles, limited editions |
Planning Your Visit
The best way to experience the university of pennsylvania museum gift shop is to visit in person. However, the shop also offers online shopping options.
Visiting in Person
- Location: The gift shop is located within the Penn Museum at 3260 South Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104.
- Hours: Check the Penn Museum website for current hours of operation.
- Accessibility: The museum and gift shop are accessible to visitors with disabilities.
Shopping Online
- Website: Visit the Penn Museum website and navigate to the "Shop" section.
- Selection: The online store offers a curated selection of items available in the physical shop.
- Shipping: The museum ships items both domestically and internationally.
By understanding the types of gifts available and planning your visit, you can make the most of your experience at the Penn Museum Gift Shop and discover unique treasures that connect you to the world's rich history.
Video: Gifts @ Penn Museum Shop: You Won't Believe What We Found!
Gifts @ Penn Museum Shop: Your Burning Questions Answered!
Planning a visit or curious about our unique offerings? Here are some frequently asked questions about the Penn Museum Shop.
What kind of gifts can I find at the Penn Museum Shop?
You'll discover a wide variety of items inspired by the museum's collections. This includes jewelry, books, home decor, educational toys, and unique handcrafted pieces. Many items directly relate to artifacts and exhibits from the university of pennsylvania museum gift shop.
Are the items in the shop authentic artifacts?
No, the items sold in the Penn Museum Shop are replicas, reproductions, or inspired by authentic artifacts. This allows you to bring a piece of history home without impacting the museum's collections.
Can I purchase items from the Penn Museum Shop online?
Yes! The university of pennsylvania museum gift shop offers a convenient online store where you can browse and purchase a selection of our products from the comfort of your home. Check the Penn Museum website for a link to the online shop.
Do purchases from the shop support the Penn Museum?
Absolutely! All proceeds from the Penn Museum Shop directly support the museum's mission of research, education, and preservation. Your purchase helps us continue to share the world's stories.