Emilienne Hector Luce
Musician / collector / museum benefactor and residence owner
Died 1960; museum opened 1962
Who they were
Emilienne Hector Luce was the French wife of Mohamed Mahmoud Khalil and shared his interest in collecting art. Their Giza residence eventually became the museum that bears both their names.
Her contribution was decisive in the house’s transition from private residence to public institution. A historical account by Samir Raafat records a will notarised in 1954 that left the house, garden, annexes and contents to the state, with the intention of creating a museum commemorating the couple.
She died in 1960, and the museum opened in 1962. Her bequest should be distinguished from the couple’s earlier collecting: she was both a participant in their cultural life and the benefactor whose testament established the basis for public ownership.
Related residences
Sources
- Al-Ahram — the couple and their collection
- Samir Raafat — house history and Emilienne’s testament
- Fine Arts Sector — museum dedicated to both spouses
Short biography checked 10 October 2026. Lifespan and documented activity dates are labelled separately.
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