L'or des pharaons

First we think of ancient Egypt, we think first of its monumental architecture. But the land of the Pharaohs has also bequeathed to us universal masterpieces of the goldsmiths'art. The fabulous treasures that were laid out alongside the dead rulers in their tombs quite simply beggared the belief of those of our contemporaries who set eyes on them -Carter for Tutankhamun, Montet for the necropolis of Tanis. This book presents a unique and stunning overview of the art of the Egyptian goldsmiths, richly illustrated with reproductions of the original works themselves - from the mas-sive volumes of gold and silver coffins to the delicacy of enamelled pectorals and tiny tallismans.

Over the space of two thousand years, these glorious objects were accumulated in the tombs on the banks of the Nile. Since time immemorial they have lured treasure hunters, and have been the constant scene of pillage, spoliation, and grave robbing. Fortunately, since the beginning of the 20th century, archaeologists have at last been able to save a large part of this treasure for the common heritage of humanity. Through its texts and colour illustrations, The Gold of the Pharaohs provides the reader with an exceptional insight into the genius of the ancient Egyptians, for whom gold was nothing other than "the flesh of the gods".