Reading Egyptian Art

The legacy of Egyptian art, from colossal statues to finely wrought jewellery and minuscule charms, can appear deceptively simple. Without knowledge of the hieroglyphic images incorporated in the art, much remains obscure. Here is an introduction to the symbolic language of hieroglyphs: a directory of the one hundred signs used most often in Egyptian painting and sculpture - from "seated man" and "lion" to "vulture" and "ankh". This guide offers a comprehensive explanation of the symbols, their origins, identification and uses. The hieroglyphs are arranged thematically, fully cross-referenced, and illustrated by newly-commissioned drawings and photographs. The result is a companion for all those interested in the mysteries of ancient Egyptian art.