SETKEN
a monumental Egyptian tomb
in melbourne
Hidden within a suburban Melbourne cemetery lies a remarkable piece of Egyptian-inspired architecture: the tomb of David Syme, one of the world’s first media tycoons and the influential proprietor of The Age newspaper. Built in 1910—12 years before the discovery of King Tutankhamun’s tomb—this heritage-listed mausoleum is a miniature replica of Trajan’s Kiosk on Agilikea Island in Egypt.
Designed by renowned architects Walter Richmond Butler and Ernest Royston Bradshaw, and adorned with copper and iron fittings crafted by artist Mabel Young, the tomb is a masterpiece of Arts and Crafts design.
In this captivating talk, artist-turned-researcher Setken delves into the fascinating history of the Syme tomb, uncovering its architectural brilliance, cultural significance, and the mysterious stories surrounding its creation. From the influence of Egyptology and Theosophy to the role of the Victorian Spiritualist Union and Syme's connection with Prime Minister Alfred Deakin, Setken reveals how this extraordinary monument reflects Melbourne's lost history. The presentation also highlights the urgent need for restoration and addresses the curious case of misattributed authorship that nearly erased Butler and Bradshaw’s legacy.
Featuring unpublished research, stunning visuals, and compelling storytelling, this talk is a journey into Melbourne’s hidden past and the life of a complex man whose tomb stands as a testament to an era of spiritual exploration and artistic innovation.
Next talks:
Open House Melbourne 25, 26 and 27 July 2025
My talks for the Open House weekend have sold out
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Photo credit: Simon Schluter,The Age
See my interview in The Age newspaper here
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More talks scheduled October and November 2025
If you would like information about hosting the presentation at your venue or for your group, please get in touch.
Praise for the presentation from attendees:
"Setken's presentation offers fascinating insights into the social, cultural and political dynamics associated with the construction of David Syme's Egyptian-inspired mausoleum in Kew, Melbourne. Setken interweaves captivating stories drawing on his extensive research into Ancient Egyptian spirituality and the life and times of one of Australia's earliest media tycoons. The presentation incorporates a wide range of compelling visual material to help bring these stories to life. All in all - an intellectual and visual feast!"
JF and LF, Melbourne Theosophical Society members
"A fascinating well-researched talk on David Syme's astonishing tomb in the Kew cemetery"
Judith Brett, author of The Enigmatic Mr Deakin (Text 2018)
"Setken was warmly received by all in attendance and deeply appreciated for his knowledge, engaging presentation style, and the care he brought to uncovering this hidden chapter of our history. His presentation gave us a deeper appreciation for the Syme Mausoleum in Kew Cemetery, highlighting its artistic and architectural significance and cementing its place in both our local and national history".
Maria McCarthy, President, Lilydale Historical Society
Photo: Kenton Miller
Setken is an accomplished artist and researcher whose work explores themes of mythology, history, and spirituality, especially Kemetic (i.e. Ancient Egyptian) spirituality.
With a background as an actor and another in visual arts, and years dedicated to uncovering hidden stories from Australia’s past, Setken brings a unique perspective to historical narratives. His artistic practice often intersects with his research, as seen in his 2023 exhibition Adventures in Zoomorphic Idolatry and more recently the Garden Party exhibition (2025) which featured works inspired by Melbourne’s Egyptian-style architecture.
Passionate about preserving cultural heritage, Setken combines meticulous research with creative expression to shed light on forgotten histories. His documentaries have won awards on the alternative film festival circuit.
His paintings have been featured in academic Egyptology books, including on the cover of one, and most recently in the Complete Encyclopedia Of Egyptian Deities. He is currently writing his first book, spawned from the talks and paintings of David Syme's tomb.