Understand the symbols and deities of ancient Egypt

Understanding the Symbols and Deities of Ancient Egypt by Florence Quentin

The first illustrated dictionary to understand the symbols and deities of ancient Egypt.

Ancient Egyptians composed elaborate signs to circumscribe the plurality, complexity and beauty of the living and the gods. Magic having been of capital importance throughout their history, multiple symbols have been embodied in stone, precious metals and earthenware, through amulets conferring on the wearer, living or deceased, effective protection: an eye amulet – oudjat conferred, for example, good eyesight, but also divine “vision”. Metaphysical, theological and scientific discourses were therefore translated into images. The signs and symbols illustrate the complexity of Egyptian practices and the richness associated with them. This unique guide, in the form of a glossary with multiple entries, summarizing the main signs, symbols and associated gods, but also the key concepts of ancient Egypt, is presented as a vademecum to accompany, on a trip or in a museum, the amateur or the enthusiast of traditional symbolism. Illustrated with photos collected throughout the temples that line the Nile and with drawings by Fabien Dessaux, it will be a precious companion for penetrating and understanding a world that is often enigmatic in the eyes of amateurs and enthusiasts alike.

Number of pages of the print edition:

383 pages

Language :

French

Editor

Hozhoni Editions

Publication date

October 13, 2022

Dimensions

12 x 2.1 x 19.1cm

Florence Quentin is an Egyptologist and writer. She is the author of numerous books on the history and religions of ancient Egypt.