This is one of the best books that I've seen on the art, symbolism and life in Ancient Egypt. Set within the reign of Hatshepsut, a royal wife and queen who transformed herself into Pharaoh, it looks at the lives of royal women from the images and personal artifacts that have been left behind.
Each chapter takes a look at aspects of Hatshepsut's reign and life, as well as the architect Senenmut, who may or may not have been her lover, but was also her most trust confidant -- and to whom she turned the education and care of her daughter, Neferure. One section that was of particular interest to me were the displays of women's lives and those of children, a topic that usually gets overlooked. There are exquisite pieces of jewelry, goldwork and tiny statues -- one of a small child, no longer than a pinkie finger, and holding an unbloomed lotus blossom, was particularly poignant. Along with precious objects there were also everyday items from mirrors, toiletry objects, small jars used to hold cosmetics and oils, to boxes and games, and several very fragile pieces of furniture of exquisite craftsmanship. All of these are shown in the catalog, each one with a detailed description and what it was meant to be used for.
Another aspect that I really enjoyed was how Hatshepsut changed the artistic styles that were in use in Egypt, and how it influenced later depictions of rulers. Icongraphy that shows her wearing male attire, false beard and holding symbols of regal authority are throughout, as well as the unusual temple that she designed and built at Deir El-Bahri where she intended to be worshipped and remembered throughout eternity.
The essays are clear and managed to be free of most jargon which would drive away most armchair archaelogists and non-specialists. The book is laid out in beautiful detail and design, giving plenty of room for the reader to savor each object and the type and layout in a pleasing format. Despite the hefty cost at 45$US for the paperback, and 65$US for the hardback editions, it is well worth the price.
In short, if you can't get to one of the locations where this exhibition is showing, this massive and exquisitely produced catalog is the next best thing. The photographs and drawings are very crisp and clear, the writing is informative, there are extensive notes and it provides a lovely experience for anyone interested in the power of women in the ancient world, or Egypt at the height of power and conquest.
For those who are interested in such things, this exhibition was shown in San Francisco in late 2005/early 2006, will continue at the Met until August 2006, and will continue on to the Kimbell Art Museum in Fort Worth, Texas from 24 August to 31 December 2006. I do suggest that if you can, do try to see this. It's worth it.
Highly Recommended.