Treasures of the Pharaohs
de Young Museum • 2026
Production Photography by Ashley Purple PhotoTo celebrate the opening of Treasures of the Pharaohs, Found Floral created botanical installations inspired by the exhibition's exploration of life, ritual, and the afterlife in ancient Egypt. Drawing from a palette of black, gold, and deep blue, sculptural florals and aged vessels echoed the exhibition's extraordinary collection.
Life and the Afterlife
Design Overview
Found Floral partnered with the de Young Museum to design botanical installations for the opening of Treasures of the Pharaohs. Created for the exhibition preview, the work welcomed museum supporters, patrons, and guests into an immersive evening celebrating one of the largest collections of ancient Egyptian artifacts to tour internationally.
A Contemporary Interpretation
Design Approach & Creative Process
Rather than recreate historical motifs, we sought to capture the materiality and atmosphere of the exhibition through the concept of Life and the Afterlife - a beautiful hybrid of fresh and aged botanicals. We attempted to replicate the gilding process against fresh flowers - and used preserved foliage and branches against natural patinaed vessels to communicate a sense of timelessness.
Material Language
Color and Floral Palette
Flowers rarely speak the language of mystery. Rather than relying on traditional focal blooms, we composed with texture, form, and movement. Sculptural (and spiky!) echinops, locally grown ageratum, and ornamental grasses created a restrained palette that echoed the exhibition's sense of intrigue.
