Museum of the Eye exhibit focuses on the eye as a cultural symbol, from ancient to modern times

The Truhlsen-Marmor Museum of the Eye is located on the ground floor of the American Academy of Ophthalmology in in San Francisco’s Fisherman’s Wharf neighborhood. (Image courtesy of the Truhlsen-Marmor Museum of the Eye)

The Truhlsen-Marmor Museum of the Eye in San Francisco is debuting a new exhibit, 

Decoding the Eye: Signs and Symbols, which explores how the eye appears as a symbol throughout time.

According to the museum, the exhibit will run now through April 2024.

In a news release, Jenny Benjamin, director of the Truhlsen-Marmor Museum of the Eye, noted the eye frequently is utilized to suggest higher power, such as one that knows all, sees all, and can bestow good or evil on people.

“This exhibit is for history buffs and pop culture lovers alike," she said in the release. "Viewers will gain an understanding of how ancient and modern eye-related objects from around the world represent enlightenment, healing and protection to different cultures."

The museum noted the exhibit will feature artifacts ranging from the ancient Egyptian Eye of Horus, pendants protecting against the evil eye to patron saints of eyes in the Catholic canon, and more.

Through a number of innovative exhibits, school tours, and free resource materials, the Truhlsen-Marmor Museum of the Eye promotes eye health on a broad scale. (Image courtesy of the Truhlsen-Marmor Museum of the Eye)

Through innovative exhibits, school tours, and free resource materials, the museum promotes eye health on a broad scale. During a tour of the museum, visitors can listen to a Spotify playlist of songs with eye-themed or eye-related lyrics.

Visitors also can access a free guided tour at 2 p.m. daily during the summer season, from May 24 to September 6.

The Museum of the Eye is located on the ground floor of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, 645 Beach St, in San Francisco’s Fisherman’s Wharf neighborhood.

According to the news release, the museum will open its doors at 10 a.m. local time, an hour earlier than usual, during the summer season.