Buried in the 14th century BC but unearthed by
Howard Carter
in 1922, the objects entombed with Tutankhamun are an invaluable window into a long-extinct belief system. Seen today, they create an intricate picture of how the ancient Egyptian people viewed the
perilous journey to paradise
, a utopian Egypt that could only be entered following the final judgment.
When acclaimed photographer
Sandro Vannini
started his work in Egypt in the late ’90s, a technological revolution was about to unfold. Emerging technologies enabled him to document murals, tombs, and artifacts in unprecedented detail. Using the time-consuming and strenuous multi-shot technique, Vannini produced
complete photographic reproductions that revealed colors in their original tones
with vivid intensity. Through these extraordinary images, we discover the objects’ quintessential features alongside the sophisticated and
cleverly hidden details
.
This
comprehensive guide
marks the
centenary of Carter’s first excavations in the Valley of the Kings
. These inestimable works endure through Vannini's photographs in their full, timeless splendor. From offerings and rituals to Osiris and eternal life, Vannini’s portfolio covers all facets of ancient Egyptian culture—but it is
Tutankhamun’s unique legacy
that dominates these images. With texts by the photographer, captions by specialist
Mohamed Megahed
, and chapter introductions from scholars in the field,
King Tut. The Journey through the Underworld
puts much-debated mysteries to rest. The learned yet accessible forewords come from distinguished Egyptologists including
Salima Ikram
and
David P. Silverman
. Insightful narratives, resplendent images, and a contemporary standpoint make this title a
fitting tribute to the Boy King’s odyssey
, illuminating an epoch that spanned an unimaginable 4,000 years.