Overview
The temples of ancient Egypt include the largest and some of the most impressive religious monuments the world has ever known. Mansions of the gods, models of Egypt and of the universe, focal points for worship, great treasure houses and islands of order in a cosmic ocean of chaos — the temples were all these things and more. Richard Wilkinson traces their development from the earliest times, looking at every aspect of their construction, decoration, symbolism and function. From the Delta to Nubia, all of Egypt’s surviving temples — ranging from the gargantuan temple of Amun at Karnak, to minuscule shrines such as the oasis Oracle of Siwa, where Alexander went to hear himself proclaimed god — are discussed and illustrated here. Five sections explore the temples: Houses of Eternity looks at their historical origin, evolution and modern rediscovery; Buildings Fit for Gods traces the process of building and decorating a temple; Worlds Within Worlds examines each part of the sacred structures in detail; Between Heaven and Earth discusses the relationship between the temples, the pharaohs and priests and the gods; and Temples of Gods and Kings is the most extensive catalogue of Egyptian temples yet published.
Full Product Details
Author: Richard H. Wilkinson
Publisher: Thames & Hudson Ltd
Imprint: Thames & Hudson Ltd
Dimensions:
Width: 19.20cm
, Height: 2.70cm
, Length: 25.40cm
Weight: 1.160kg
ISBN: 9780500051009
ISBN 10: 0500051003
Pages: 256
Publication Date: 30 May 2000
Audience:
General/trade
,
College/higher education
,
Professional and scholarly
,
General
,
Undergraduate
Replaced By: 9780500283967
Format: Hardback
Publisher's Status: Out of Print
Availability: Out of stock
Reviews
"""Laden with photographs ... this stunning reference reviews the construction, decoration, symbolism, and function of every surviving Egyptian temple."""
The temples of Egypt are arguably the most impressive monuments to have survived from the ancient world. Still amazing conquerors, explorers and travellers long after the civilizations vanished, the structures rank among the greatest architectural achievements of human history. This is the first fully illustrated survey of ancient Egyptian temples, built from early Pharaoic to the Roman period, including famous monuments such as those found at Karnak,Luxor, Abydos and Edfu. With over 500 photographs, illustrations, comprehensive maps, plans and specially drawn perspective views, it also provides a fascinating discussion on the functions, meanings, sacred rites and roles of these monuments and how they offer a unique view into the lives and minds of the ancient Egyptians. (Kirkus UK)
Laden with photographs ... this stunning reference reviews the construction, decoration, symbolism, and function of every surviving Egyptian temple.
Author Information
Richard H. Wilkinson is an archaeologist in the field of Egyptology. He is Regents Professor Emeritus at the University of Arizona and founding director of the University of Arizona Egyptian Expedition.
