Born: 1913 (Paris, France)
Died: 2011 (Mondement-Montgivroux, France)
Biography:
Christiane Desroches Noblecourt was a prominent figure in the field of Egyptology, known for her extensive knowledge of Egyptian art and history. She was born on November 17, 1913, in Paris to Louis Desroches, a lawyer, and Madeleine Girod. Her fascination with Egyptology began in 1922 when she was captivated by Howard Carter’s discovery of the tomb of Tutankhamun. Encouraged by Father Étienne Drioton, a priest and scholar, she joined the Egyptian Antiquities department at the Louvre.
Desroches Noblecourt pursued her studies in Egyptology at the École du Louvre, where she received a Diploma in Archaeology in 1935 under the guidance of Étienne Drioton and Charles Boreux. She furthered her education and obtained her PhD in philology from the École Pratique des Hautes études of the Sorbonne in 1937, studying under the tutelage of Gustave Lefebvre, Alexandre Moret, and Raymond Weill. Her academic achievements made her the first woman to become a fellow of the French Institute of Oriental Archaeology (IFAO).
In addition to her scholarly pursuits, Desroches Noblecourt also took an active role in archaeological excavations. In 1938, she led her first dig, becoming the first woman to do so. Her archaeological work took her to various sites, including Edfu, Deir el-Medina, Medamud, and Karnak North. These excavations provided valuable insights into ancient Egyptian civilization and contributed to the preservation of historical artifacts.
During World War II, Desroches Noblecourt played a vital role in safeguarding the treasures of the Louvre. She joined the Resistance and hid the museum’s Egyptian treasures in free areas of France, protecting them from potential destruction. Her efforts to preserve these priceless artifacts demonstrated her commitment to preserving cultural heritage in times of crisis.
In 1942, Desroches Noblecourt married André Noblecourt, an engineer who later became a security advisor to the national museums of France, the International Council of Museums (ICOM), and UNESCO. Together, they had one son. Sadly, André passed away in 1957.
Desroches Noblecourt’s contribution to the field of Egyptology extended beyond her academic achievements and archaeological work. She played a vital role in the campaign to save the ancient Nubian temples from flooding caused by the construction of the Aswan High Dam. With the government’s decision to build a new dam to meet the growing population’s needs, the monuments of ancient Nubia were at risk of being submerged. Desroches Noblecourt became a leading figure in the International Campaign to Save the Monuments of Nubia and advocated for their preservation.
Throughout her career, Desroches Noblecourt authored numerous books on Egyptian art and history, further showcasing her vast knowledge and passion for the subject. Her contributions to the preservation and understanding of Egyptian civilization have had a lasting impact on the field of Egyptology.
Christiane Desroches Noblecourt passed away on June 23, 2011, at the age of 97. She was laid to rest in the cemetery of Mondement-Montgivroux in France. Her legacy in the field of Egyptology and her dedication to safeguarding cultural heritage continue to inspire future generations.
Awards:
– Fellows of the French Institute of Oriental Archaeology