A remarkable work of Egyptian-inspired architecture that emerged from the Melbourne Arts And Crafts Movement of the late 1800's and early 1900's can be found in a suburban Melbourne cemetery.

 

The tomb of Scottish immigrant David Syme, one of the world’s first media tycoons and the influential proprietor of The Age newspaper, is interred with his wife Annabella in a mausoleum built 12 years before the discovery of King Tutankhamun’s tomb.

 

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 Setken delves into the fascinating history of the Syme tomb, uncovering its architectural brilliance, cultural significance, and the incredible stories surrounding its creation.

 

From the influence of Egyptosophy and Theosophy to the role of the Victorian Spiritualist Union, Setken reveals how this extraordinary monument reflects Melbourne's lost history. 

Featuring unpublished research, stunning visuals, and compelling storytelling, this presentation is a journey into Melbourne’s hidden past and the life of a complex and enigmatic man whose tomb stands as a testament to an era of spiritual exploration and artistic innovation.

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​​​​​See interview about the Open House Melbourne program iteration of the talk in The Age newspaper here

 

See the short speech Ranald Macdonald made at one of the presentations.

Ranald is the former Managing Director and Managing Editor of The Age and last of the Syme's at The Age before Fairfax took over.

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The forthcoming book The King Of Melbourne: the spiritual life of David Syme, His Newspaper The Age, and the Legacy of His Monumental Tomb is available for pre-order.

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Praise for the presentation from attendees:

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"A masterly, information-packed and beautiful slide-illustrated presentation of extensively researched new information about the circumstances and influences behind the erection of the impressive temple-like tomb that was commissioned by Melbourne Age proprietor David Syme just before his death in 1908, and which occupies a dominating position in the Boroondara Cemetery".

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Elizabeth Morrison, author of David Syme: Man of the Age (2013 )

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"A fascinating well-researched talk on David Syme's astonishing tomb in the Kew cemetery"

Judith Brett, author of The Enigmatic Mr Deakin (2018)

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​"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

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"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 

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Setken’s presentation on David Syme’s Egyptian-inspired mausoleum is a captivating
blend of rigorous research, striking visuals, and compelling storytelling. With deep
insight into Ancient Egypt, Setken brings to life the extraordinary story behind one of
Australia's most remarkable tombs. An engaging and thought-provoking talk, both
intellectually rich and visually stunning.

Lauren Joffe

Chief Librarian

PMI Victorian History Library

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