From Library Journal
Every now and again a new book is published that the reader wishes had been available years before, say, when he or she was a student. Symbol and Magic in Egyptian Art is that kind of book. With the help of a veritable who's who among Egyptologists, Wilkinson-a working Egyptologist and lecturer on ancient Egypt at the University of Arizona-presents a clear, well-researched, well-documented book that is a basic tool for anyone studying Egyptian art. Working from an Egyptologist's viewpoint, Wilkinson breaks down Egyptian symbols into nine related areas (form, size, location, materials, color, numbers, hieroglyphs, actions, and gestures) and gives many detailed examples to illustrate the interpretations. In his introduction, Wilkinson discusses the ambiguity inherent in symbols and addresses the potential error involved in interpretation. Highly recommended for any collection with more than a cursory interest in Egyptian art.
Mary Morgan Smith, Northland P.L., PittsburghCopyright 1994 Reed Business Information, Inc.
Book Description
There is scarcely an Egyptian temple, pyramid, obelisk, wall painting or sculpture that does not possess some hidden meaning - a meaning which can only be understood by reference to the fundamental symbolic code used by the ancient Egyptians. This book reveals the language of this ancient code, which endured for millennia. This guide offers a thematic treatment of Egyptian art. Illustrations allow the reader to see and understand ancient works as the Egyptians did themselves, and the reference section includes a glossary and guide to further reading.