Treasures of Ancient Egypt: Artefacts, Tombs & Temples from the Land of the Pharaohs

by Nigel Fletcher-Jones

More than 150 stunning photos celebrate the wonders of ancient Egypt, from its hieroglyph-covered papyrus scrolls to the awe-inspiring pyramids.
 
Few cultures have left behind as many familiar objects and buildings as Ancient Egypt. The Great Pyramid and Sphinx, the Valley of the Kings, the Colossi of Memnon, the plaster bust of Nefertiti, the gold mask of Tutankhamun, the rock-cut temples at Abu Simbel, and the Rosetta Stone all are immediately recognizable. The exceptional beauty of Ancient Egypt's temples, tombs, and objects draw millions of people each year to Egypt, and to museums around the world. Treasures of Ancient Egypt tells the tale of many of these familiar places and riches alongside some that are less familiar, but just as spectacular, framed by a lively and highly readable account of Egypt's history from around 3000 BCE to the death of Queen Cleopatra in 30 BCE. Over 150 color photographs, including never-before-published images, complete this fascinating exploration of Ancient Egypt's unique culture and its contribution to world history and art.

Genres: History, Egypt, Art

224 pages, Hardcover

First published August 6, 2019

About the author

Nigel Fletcher-Jones is a British Egyptologist, historian, archaeologist, and anthropologist.
He has a PhD in archaeological anthropology from Durham University, and was director of the American University in Cairo Press from 2012 to 2020. He is the author of Treasures of Ancient Egypt (2019), Abu Simbel and the Nubian Temples (AUC Press, 2019), and Ancient Egyptian Jewelry (AUC Press, 2020).
He lives in Canterbury, Kent.

Reviews

[Kelly Hodgkins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Anyone who has followed my reading habits will know I am an Egyptomaniac! I love reading and learning about Egypt. This book appealed because it is a visual storytelling experience and I am so glad I picked it up! It is fantastic from start to finish with the beautiful artefacts explained in their context and with their relevance to history. The period of time covered is extensive so the reader can really grasp how design and art changed as the culture did and history unfolded. It is a five out of five on the enJOYment scale and highly recommended!

I received a complimentary copy of the book from Amber Books Ltd through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Lucy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Most people are familiar with ancient Egypt. Our introduction to this civilisation might have taken place at school, in a museum, or through television and film. There are many images or symbols that are instantly recognisable – the pyramids, mummies, the Sphinx, and the death mask of Tutankhamun. When, in 1922, Howard Carter first peered into Tutankhamun’s tomb, he was asked, “Can you see anything?” to which Carter responded “Yes, wonderful things!” He was of course referring to the treasures that filled the space in front of him. Therefore, it isn’t surprising that when one thinks about ancient Egypt, we think of treasure. Treasures of Ancient Egypt by Nigel Fletcher-Jones is a photographic celebration of the bountiful treasures of ancient Eqypt. A huge thank you to Amber Books and Net Galley for a copy of this book.

Treasures of Ancient Egypt provides a fabulous overview of the ancient Egyptian civilisation. It is written chronologically, and the style of writing is highly accessible. The more than 160 colour photographs throughout this book emphasise the sheer beauty and magnificence of ancient Egypt. For history lovers, or individuals with an interest in ancient civilisations, this book is the perfect introduction to ancient Egypt. It will whet the appetite of its readers; enticing readers to jump straight on a plane to Egypt, or to delight in some more armchair travel. As such, I recommend picking up a copy of Treasures of Ancient Egypt by Nigel Fletcher-Jones.

[Kiara · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5

I always find it interesting to read introductory books on a topic I’m quite well versed in, Ancient Egypt— is my favourite topic so I’d say I’m familiar. The text is well written if not a little repetitive in the structure and tone, not unexpected given the subject and the massive timeline, but it made it harder to stay engaged.

The highlight of this book is the stunning images placed throughout, Ancient Egypt was a culture filled with art not only as decoration but also as a form of communication.

The image descriptions were concise and offered a time frame (during whose reign) and the current location of the subject (I found it fascinating to see which museums held each piece of history). I thought the ratio of writing to images was done well and it was hard not to skip ahead to enjoy the pictures.


It’s an introductory look into the Ancient Egyptian timeline, understandable considering one couldn’t possibly hope to encapsulate this magnificent culture in 226 pages but it’s a book I’d recommend if someone is interested in the timeline of Pharaohs and important political events. I don’t think it would be my first recommendation for a well-rounded and basic introduction to the subject of Ancient Egyptian Civilisation but it also wouldn't be a bad place to start.

[Elisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

This informative volume with gorgeous photographs covers from the very beginning of the Egyptian civilization and all the way to early Christianity, including the Greco-Roman period. It follows Egyptian art, culture, civilization and history, illustrating the most salient points with high-quality pictures. I found the text itself a little dry, with too many dates and names to easily follow, but the photographs make up for it by actually showing what remains of those times. The art features classics like the great pyramids, the sphinx and Tut’s mask, but also sculptures of architects, scribes and other people who made Egypt what it was. It is easy to follow the evolution of the civilization through the ages, from the primitive stone circles of prehistory to the strong influence of Greco-Roman culture (I was blown away by a statue of Psamtek II, which is like nothing I remember seeing in Egyptian art). There is one big downside to this book: it will give you a serious case of wanderlust.
I chose to read this book and all opinions in this review are my own and completely unbiased. Thank you, #NetGalley/#Amber Books.

[Peter · Rating 4 out of 5]

By necessity a book of this type providing an overview of the period that Ancient Egypt covers will only provide brief notes. However this book is surprisingly comprehensive in its achievements as the changes in politics, architecture, jewellery and artistic styles are shown. The problem is that there are a multitude of examples to choose from and whilst there are many images that are familiar there are also many less so. The quality of photographs in this book show the richness of the archaeological riches of the country. Having read this book it is to be hoped that many will use it as a springboard to investigate more about different periods, however the author gives no sample lists of further reading which is a missed opportunity. The timeline at the rear of the book could have been designed better and the information in it needs to be consistent with the text. These last two things are however minor niggles in a well produced book.

#TreasuresOfAncientEgypt #NetGalley

[Theediscerning · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very decent Egypt book, taking a slightly different approach. You might get a coffee table book full of images of the tombs, pyramids and other relics, or you might get a dense history of the country, with all the royal dynasties and invaders itemised in order and at great length. Heck, I happen to know that the publisher here has already got both kinds amongst their output. But this is a happy medium – we get roughly ten pages per chapter of text to convey what is happening where and who is ruling, who attacking, and so on, and the rest is the visual side of things, added to of course by the typical Amber captioning. Educational, then, to those with a common layman's knowledge of all this kind of stuff, and yet very eye-catching for the coffee table, this is a success of broad appeal. A strong four stars.

[J. d'Merricksson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Treasures of Ancient Egypt by Nigel Fletcher-Jones is a gorgeous book detailing the archaeology of a most fascinating culture. Through over 150 stunning photographs, and engaging prose, some of the most well-known (and some not so well-known) aspects of ancient Egypt are explored. From the pyramids, to the grave goods of Tutankhamun, to delicate papyri etched with hieroglyphs, these photos span the breadth of the Egyptian dominance. It should be noted that this is primarily an art book rather than an archaeological text, but it's still worth adding as a supplement to an archaeological library. It's also the perfect coffee table conversation piece.

***Many thanks to Netgalley and Amber Books for providing an egalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.

[Michelle Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

During the tour of Tutankhamun in the late 70’s my mother went with my stepfather on a date before they were married and she brought home a hardcover copy of ‘Treasures of Tutankhamun’, so from the time I was a very little girl, I would pore over the photos in that book and be awed. As a result, perhaps, I’ve always been very interested in ancient Egyptian history.

Having the opportunity to read this, I will say that the photos included are among the most wonderful I’ve seen. History is interspersed between the vivid photographs and engaging to read.

Would be an excellent choice for history lovers as well as homeschooling unit studies.




Thank you to Amber Books and NetGalley for the PDF

[L A · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks to Amber Books and NetGalley for the Advance Review Copy in exchange for an honest review.

This book contains some of the most stunningly beautiful photographs of Ancient Egyptian treasures that I have ever seen in a book on the subject and I have read many.

A wide range of artefacts are covered including architecture, jewellery, tombs and art amongst others. There is supplementary information to accompany the images but it is still very much an art book. Sometimes books of this type try to be both but this collection stayed in its lane.

A great book for anyone who is interested in looking at antiquities (who isn't?), I've ordered myself a print copy for my classroom.

[Rose · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a really interesting overview of the cultural history of Ancient Egypt. The book is broken down into four main sections, each with an overview of important political events and cultural practices. The reading covered various topics, including clothing, art and government structure.
The writing was fairly brief and I think this book is a great jumping-off point for readers who are interested in the history of ancient Egypt! The photos are also beautiful and had helpful captions.
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Amber Books for the eARC!

[Andrea Wenger · Rating 5 out of 5]

Exploring the wonders of ancient Egypt, this visually stunning book features 160 color photos showcasing iconic landmarks like the pyramids and Tutankhamun’s tomb. With images of artifacts such as jewelry, statues, and wall paintings, the book brings this mighty civilization to life. While it briefly covers the history of Egypt, the focus is on the art and architecture. It includes many gorgeous artifacts I’ve never seen before, displaying an unexpected realism.

Thanks, NetGalley, for the ARC I received. This is my honest and voluntary

[Rebecca Hill · Rating 4 out of 5]

Truly a fantastic book! Ancient Egyptian history is one of my favorites, and the visual story throughout this book is powerful. Dive into history, and learn more about this mighty empire - the highs and lows, and what finally brought them to an end.

Get lost back in ancient Egypt with these amazing photos. Nigel Fletcher-Jones does a great job, and I look forward to seeing more of his work.

[Annarella · Rating 5 out of 5]

A well written history of ancient Egypt and amazing pictures.
A clear, well researched and interesting book.
Highly recommended!
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.

[PixieART · Rating 5 out of 5]

Who doesn't love the ancient art out of Egypt? I know it's always captivated me.
Thank you to NetGalley for giving me the chance to read this book.
I would have highly preferred to see these pictures in a physical book. I think if your going to buy this, a physical copy is the way to go. This picture are amazing and zooming in on the phone with a ebook copy did not do these great pieces of art justice.
This books got you covered if you know nothing about ancient Egypt or have studied it before. With a map of Egypt, a time line of events, notes explaining the pictures, and details chapters explaining the lifestyle of the people and the rise and fall of Kingdoms and their rulers. Recommend for anyone fascinated in Egypt or art.