Category:  Historical Periods

Reviewed by Francesca: From the introduction to the last page, this catalog is the witness of this period, qualified as ’purely Egyptian in style.’ The last paragraph of the introduction says a great deal about this most interesting catalog; the author suggests that scholars should show more interest in this particular period. When reading through this catalog, the reader will wish indeed that scholars show this interest. Through the well-documented pages appears a rich era. All inscriptions are well explained and all statues described with much detail. Wonderful photographs complete this recommended book.

From the book cover: Diadems, armlets, earrings, pendants, rings, bracelets, breastplates, amulets ... wrought in the rare and precious gems and metals that have stirred man's greed and wonder for centuries ... Nubian gold, vivid lapis lazuli, bright-colored faience and blood-red carnelian, Cyril Aldred [...] tells their enchanting and dramatic story... the myths and legends, the discoveries and thefts, that have marked each treasure's history. He explains the fascinating uses and significance of Egyptian jewels and describes the amazing techniques that created them.

Reviewed by Francesca: This book provides a compact chronicle of the most significant Egyptian monarchs from the earliest times to the end of Nektanebo II's reign. The lives and achievements of these rulers (famous or lesser-known kings and queens) are clearly summarized and accurately detailed. Well illustrated in black and white, this book is mostly recommended for students.

Reviewed by Francesca: Written by two of the leading experts in the field of early Ancient Egyptian history and prehistory, this book surveys the current theories surrounding the state formation process. It details the major sites which have been excavated and are under investigation, as well as the theorized contact with the inhabitants of the Western Desert and the Near East. It is a typical well written excellent little Shire book, with much compact information and many illustrations. All in all, it is an excellent source of information about Protodynastic Egypt for scholars and interested laypeople.