Eight priceless pieces of ancient Egyptian antiquities will be on display at the Shanghai World Expo which runs from May 1 to Oct. 31.

The precious artifacts dating back 2,500 to 3,500 years will be shown abroad for the first time at the expo, Egyptian ambassador to China Ahmed Rezk said in a statement Thursday.

Coming from different Pharaonic dynasties, one of the pieces is the Gold Mask of Sheshonq, which dates back to the 22nd dynasty (890 BC). It was discovered in 1939 in the Tanis Royal Tombs in Delta, northern Cairo.

The antiquities also includes a limestone Dayed Statue of Nebneheh and Bakyarti which dates back to the 19th dynasty. It was unearthed in 1873.

Other pieces include the Limestone Block Statue of Amenmessu with a small Figure of Sobek from the 19th dynasty. It was found in 1904.

During the Expo, three Egyptian folk art troupes will perform and showcase Egyptian culture and art of different periods, the ambassador said.

(Xinhua News Agency April 30, 2010)