Egyptian Art
Egyptian Art
EGP1,330.00
A lifelong devotee of ancient Egyptian and Oriental culture, the French author, artist, and scholar Achille-Constant-Théodore-Émile Prisse d’Avennes (1807–1879) is famed as one of the most influential Egyptologists, long before the discipline was even properly established.
Prisse first embarked on his explorations in 1836, documenting sites throughout the Nile Valley, often under his Egyptian pseudonym, Edris Effendi. Prisse’s first publication of notes, drawings, and squeezes (a kind of frottage) came in the form of Les Monuments égyptiens, a modest collection of 51 plates, but one met with considerable acclaim in popular and intellectual circles. Encouraged by his success, Prisse returned to Egypt in the late 1850s to expand his work into the collection L’Histoire de l’art égyptien—together with his first volume, these two tomes make up a truly complete survey of Egyptian art.
His albums cover architecture, drawing, sculpture, painting, and industrial or minor arts, with sections, plans, architectural details, and surface decoration all documented with utmost sensitivity and accuracy. Even when compared to the products of the great state-sponsored expeditions to Egypt of this period, Prisse’s compendium remains the largest, single-handed illustrated record of Egyptian art in existence.
Discover the complete collection of Prisse’s unsurpassed illustrations in a visual and archaeological feast of symmetry and complexity. Once exclusively available as an XL-sized title, this Bibliotheca Universalis edition captures all the mystery and opulence of Prisse’s groundbreaking collection in an affordable, compact format.
About the series
Bibliotheca Universalis — Compact cultural companions celebrating the eclectic TASCHEN universe!
Egyptian Art
Egyptian Art Book Description
Egyptian Art offers an immersive look at ancient Egypt through the eyes of French scholar Achille‑Constant‑Théodore‑Émile Prisse d’Avennes. Readers will explore his celebrated illustrations and detailed studies, all presented in a compact Bibliotheca Universalis edition that is both affordable and visually stunning.
Prisse d’Avennes devoted his life to Egyptian and Oriental culture. Beginning his travels in 1836, he recorded monuments across the Nile Valley under the name Edris Effendi. His first work, Les Monuments égyptiens, featured 51 finely engraved plates and earned praise from both scholars and the public.
Encouraged by early success, Prisse returned to Egypt in the late 1850s. He expanded his research into the two‑volume series L’Histoire de l’art égyptien. Together, these volumes provide a comprehensive survey of Egyptian art, covering architecture, sculpture, painting, and everyday crafts with remarkable accuracy.
Even against the backdrop of large, state‑sponsored expeditions, Prisse’s collection remains the most extensive single‑handed illustrated record of Egyptian art. His plates reveal intricate details of temple plans, decorative motifs, and industrial objects, offering readers a visual feast of symmetry and complexity.
Now available in a convenient size, this edition captures the mystery and opulence of Prisse’s original work. It allows enthusiasts to enjoy the full breadth of his illustrations without the burden of an oversized tome.
Key Features of Egyptian Art
Each page presents high‑quality reproductions of Prisse’s original drawings and squeezes. The images showcase precise line work, allowing readers to study architectural details and ornamental designs up close. Additionally, concise commentary explains the historical context of each illustration.
The book covers a wide range of subjects, from monumental temples to everyday objects such as pottery and textiles. Moreover, it includes maps and floor plans that help readers visualize the layout of ancient sites.
Because the edition is compact, it fits easily on a bookshelf or travel bag. Therefore, scholars, students, and casual fans can explore Egyptian art wherever they go.
Why Read This Book?
Readers will discover a unique visual archive that predates modern Egyptology. The author’s meticulous approach provides insights that remain valuable to contemporary researchers. Furthermore, the stunning illustrations make the book an attractive coffee‑table addition.
Fans of ancient history will appreciate the blend of artistic beauty and scholarly detail. Meanwhile, art lovers can admire the elegance of Prisse’s hand‑drawn plates. Also, the book serves as an educational tool for teachers introducing students to early archaeological methods.
Many readers find that the compact format encourages repeated visits to favorite sections. Consequently, the book becomes a lasting resource rather than a one‑time read.
About This Book
Egyptian Art brings together the complete collection of Prisse d’Avennes’ illustrations in a single, easy‑to‑handle volume. It celebrates the legacy of a pioneering Egyptologist while offering modern readers an engaging, visually rich experience. For more details about the author and related works, visit the Goodreads page. Explore additional English titles at our store via this link.
Be the first to review “Egyptian Art”
Product Related
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.