Quirke, Stephen - Spencer, Jennifer: The British Museum Book of Ancient Egypt

The British Museum Book Of Ancient Egypt is an impressive visual and textual guide to the civilization ruled by the Pharaohs as written by the Keeper and staff of the Department of Egyptian Antiquities at the British Museum, whose collection is one of the richest in the world. The British Museum Book Of Ancient Egypt covers every aspect of the culture from prehistoric times through the three millennia of Pharaonic history to the years of late Roman antiquity when Christianity replaced the ancient religion, script, and art. Taking account of recent discoveries and research, the authors draw upon the British Museum's extensive collections to illustrate every aspect of what was perhaps the most magnificent of ancient kingdoms. Individual sections are devoted to the natural setting of the Nile valley; the social and economic life of its inhabitants, with an historical outline; the religious beliefs presented in ancient art and texts; funerary practices; art and architecture; technical achievements; and the world that surrounded the ancient Egyptians, in particular the less well known but equally brilliant history of Nubia. With its 170 illustrations (80 in full color) The British Museum Book Of Ancient Egypt is an excellent academic and community library acquisition selection. -- Midwest Book Review