Ancient Egyptian Architecture in Fifteen Monuments

Ancient Egyptian Architecture in Fifteen Monuments is a comprehensive overview of Egyptian architecture from an archaeologist and architectural historian's perspective, focusing on fifteen selected masterpieces. It provides new insights into form, meaning, and space organization, offering a fresh perspective on ancient Egyptian culture and society.

Format: Hardback
Length: 124 pages
Publication date: 01 June 2022
Publisher: American University in Cairo Press

The monuments of ancient Egypt have captivated scholars and tourists alike for centuries. The sheer magnitude of the pyramids of Giza, the interplay between the temples at Deir al-Bahari and their natural surroundings, and the use of light in the hypostyle hall of Karnak all contribute to these buildings' status as world-class masterpieces, rivaling those of Greece and Rome.

Ancient Egyptian Architecture in Fifteen Monuments offers an authoritative exploration of Egyptian architecture from the perspective of an archaeologist and architectural historian with extensive fieldwork experience in Egypt and other regions. The book focuses on fifteen selected masterpieces, ranging from well-known structures like the Bent Pyramid in Dahshur and the temple of Horus at Edfu to lesser-known monuments in Hierakonpolis, Abydos, Hawara, and Bubastis. Each of these buildings represents a significant stage in the development of Egyptian architecture and showcases a distinct vision of what architecture should strive to achieve.

Felix Arnold, the author, presents new insights into form, meaning, and the organization of space through sixty reconstruction drawings and black-and-white photographs. This fresh perspective on ancient Egyptian culture and society offers a valuable addition to the field.

The book is organized into five chapters, each dedicated to a specific monument or architectural style. The first chapter provides an introduction to Egyptian architecture and its historical development. Chapter two explores the Bent Pyramid in Dahshur, highlighting its unique design and construction techniques. Chapter three examines the temple of Horus at Edfu, focusing on its intricate carvings and symbolic significance. Chapter four explores the temple of Hatshepsut at Deir al-Bahari, highlighting its grand scale and innovative architectural features. Chapter five explores the lesser-known monuments in Hierakonpolis, Abydos, Hawara, and Bubastis, each offering unique insights into the development of Egyptian architecture.

Throughout the book, Arnold emphasizes the importance of understanding the context and purpose of each monument. He discusses the political, social, and religious aspects of Egyptian society that influenced architectural design and construction. He also explores the technical challenges faced by ancient Egyptian architects and the innovative solutions they developed to overcome them.

In addition to its scholarly value, Ancient Egyptian Architecture in Fifteen Monuments is a visually stunning book. The reconstruction drawings and photographs provide a detailed and accurate representation of the monuments, allowing readers to appreciate their intricate details and architectural features. The book's design is also visually appealing, with clear and concise text and a well-organized layout.

Overall, Ancient Egyptian Architecture in Fifteen Monuments is an essential resource for anyone interested in ancient Egyptian culture, history, and architecture. It offers a comprehensive and authoritative overview of Egyptian architecture from the perspective of an experienced archaeologist and architectural historian. The book's stunning visuals and insightful analysis make it accessible to a wide range of readers, from scholars and students to casual enthusiasts. Whether you are interested in the pyramids of Giza, the temples of Deir al-Bahari, or the lesser-known monuments of Egypt, this book will provide you with a deeper understanding of the rich and complex architectural heritage of this ancient civilization.

ISBN-13: 9781617972836