In the summer of 2023, a remarkable interaction unfolded at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, a bastion of cultural treasures in New York City. Armia Khalil, a dedicated security guard, observed a visitor, seemingly consumed by a quest for a specific piece among the museum’s extensive collection.

“Do you need help, sir?” These words resonated in Mr. Khalil’s mind as he approached the individual. The visitor was in search of “Flight Into Egypt,” a poignant oil painting by Henry Ossawa Tanner. This iconic work, created over a century ago, portrays a biblical scene of the Holy Family’s perilous escape from King Herod’s assassins in shades of deep blue.

What followed was an interaction that transcended the ordinary. The visitor’s quest to find this particular piece of art nestled among the museum’s vast array was the conduit for a conversation that would bridge worlds and ideas.

For Mr. Khalil, locating “Flight Into Egypt” was second nature; it was part of his daily routine as a security guard tasked with ensuring the safety and experience of each visitor. However, his personal background added a layer of meaning to the encounter. Born and raised in Egypt, Mr. Khalil had a profound fascination with Egyptian art and stories tied to Egypt.

“Of course, I knew it,” Mr. Khalil reflected. “At this point, after 10 years at the Met, almost everything about Egypt, I would know. Almost!” His extensive knowledge and passion for the subject matter made finding the painting an opportunity to delve deeper into a shared fascination with the country.

Guiding the visitor to “Flight Into Egypt,” Mr. Khalil seized the moment to share his expertise. An unexpected bond formed as they discussed the cultural significance and artistic nuances of Egypt in Tanner’s masterpiece. Their conversation, rooted in shared passion and knowledge, transcended the museum’s walls, creating a personal connection through the universal language of art.