Passion for Egypt: Arthur Weigall, Tutankhamun and the 'Curse of the Pharaohs' (Tauris Parke Paperbacks)

by JulieHankey (Author)

• Used

  Illustrated
  2007

  $3.27

  This book presents the acclaimed life story of one of the great Egyptologists of the last century.Arthur Weigall was Chief Inspector of Antiquities in Upper Egypt in its remarkable Edwardian heyday: a time of spectacular discoveries - most notably the tomb of Tutankhamun in 1922 - but also one of a glittering European society centred on Luxor. Weigall's work brought contact with all the leading figures in Egyptian archaeology at the time, including Lord Carnarvon and Howard Carter - with whom relations soon grew strained. He may (in the course of reporting for the London press on Carter's work at Tutankhamun's tomb) inadvertently have given rise to the enduring myth of 'The Curse of the Pharaohs'. But the story of Weigall, who did so much to popularise the study of ancient Egypt, is in many ways the story of the modern rediscovery of that forgotten world.

• Used

  Hardcover
  2001

  $3.27

  The first quarter of the twentieth century witnessed many spectacular archaeological discoveries in Egypt, with that of Tutankhamun the most sensational. During this period Arthur Weigall, the British Egyptologist, was involved with the exploration of the antiquities of Luxor - particularly in the Tombs of the Nobles and the Valley of the Kings. His enthusiasm and energy played a large part in popularising ancient Egypt at a time when Luxor was becoming a fashionable winter resort for the elite of Europe and the USA. As Chief Inspector of Antiquities, Weigall played host to visiting royalty and aristocracy as they converged on Egypt in the years leading up to the discovery of Tutankhamun's tomb under Howard Carter and Lord Carnarvon - with whom he came into conflict over newspaper reporting of the find. Following Carnarvon's premature death in Egypt it was Weigall's remarks to the press that led to the infamous story of the 'Curse of the Pharaohs': a myth that persists to this day. However, Weigall's real legacy derives from his great passion for Egypt - both ancient and modern - that is the constant theme of this compelling biography.