Genghis Khan Exhibit Brings Conqueror to Philly

A special exhibit on Mongolian conqueror Genghis Khan is coming to the Franklin Institute in three days. On May 9th, “Genghis Khan: Bring the Legend to Life” will roll into town with artwork and artifacts commemorating the life of the warlord. The show debuted at the Houston Museum of Natural Science back in 2009 and has since toured the United States, Canada, and Asia.

The Genghis Khan exhibit will bring people face to face with Mongolian history. Photo: Ganna Natsag

The exhibit is the brainchild of Gankhuyag “Ganna” Natsag, who is passionate about all things Mongolian. He created the traveling show to share a part of his Mongolian culture with the rest of the world. Having dedicated his life to that quest, he has contributed some of his own private artwork (like ritual masks and traditional costumes) and ideas to the show. The exhibit is in six parts, covering topics ranging from Khan’s childhood and conquests to the state of Mongolia today.

Over 250 items were selected for the exhibit from both private and public collections. There are pieces as ancient as 5,000 years old, dating back to the glory days of the Mongol Empire. An especial prize is a sword that was said to be carried by one of Marco Polo’s guards. Items of clothing, jade, and religious artifacts are also present.

Natsag says that he believes Genghis Khan will be present in spirit at the exhibit. In any case, visitors will get a very clear taste of his essence. Natsag says that the show will help visitors – children and adults alike – learn true facts about the conqueror in a “natural” way.

“Genghis Khan: Bring the Legend to Life” will run through early January of next year.