Florence the Woman

Ancient Egyptian Shabti figure, 664 BC-525 BCE

Display No. 105

Nightingale was fascinated with ancient Egypt and collected this authentic ‘shabti’. Shaped like a mummy, the Ancient Egyptians believed shabtis could carry out tasks for the dead in the underworld.

However, tempted by some more dubious souvenirs, Nightingale also unwittingly collected these four fake amulets. Ancient Egyptian artefacts were popular with Victorian collectors there was a healthy market for forgeries.

Shabti, Image courtesy of National Museums Liverpool (World Museum)

Exhibits from ‘Florence the Woman’

Discover the 200 Exhibits

Nightingale is respected worldwide for her pioneering role in developing the nursing profession, her statistical work, and her evidence-based approach to healthcare. In honour of her bicentenary the World Health Organisation have named 2020 the Year of the Nurse and Midwife.

In our special exhibition, you will find out about objects, people and places which tell interesting stories about Florence’s life and legacy. You’ll discover artefacts from her life, people she both inspired and challenged, and places she helped to shape. There’s many more insights too!

Please click on the different sections of her famous coxcomb diagram to explore various aspects of her life and legacy. We hope you enjoy exploring!