His independent means as the son of a wealthy banker enabled Alexander Henry Rhind (1833-63) to devote his short life to antiquarianism. While reading for the Scottish bar, he studied and investigated Pictish remains, and pressed for the inclusion of archaeological sites in Ordnance Survey maps. On developing tubercular symptoms, he gave up his legal studies and passed the winters from 1855 to 1857 in Egypt, where he made the important studies and excavations recorded in this 1862 book. He focuses on the necropolis of Thebes, and in particular on the unplundered tomb of an eighteenth-dynasty official. Putting his work into the wider context of the history of ancient Egypt and the importance of the city of Thebes, he also describes the reuse of the necropolis ruins as homes for modern Egyptian peasants and as the centre of a thriving trade in antiquities, both genuine and forged.

The Art in Ancient Egypt in two volumes is a study of Egyptian arts and of their connection with the national religion and civilization written by French archeologists and historians Georges Perrot and Charles Chipiez. The aim of the work was to trace the course of the great evolution which culminated in the age of Pericles and came to an end in that of Marcus Aurelius. That evolution forms a complete entirety – an unbroken chain of cause and effect uniting the two eras. Using carefully selected examples authors prove that the art of the Egyptians went through the same process of development as those of other nationalities, earlier and later ones, and that the unique quality of the sculptures and paintings of the Nile Valley was a persistent affinity to simplification, which comes in part from the habit created by writing the hieroglyphic and in part from the materials used.

In 'A History of Art in Ancient Egypt,' Volumes 1 and 2, Georges Perrot and Charles Chipiez undertake an ambitious exploration of the aesthetic and cultural riches of ancient Egyptian civilization. Through their exhaustive examination, they present a nuanced tapestry of the artistic achievements that shaped one of history's most enduring societies. The collection distinguishes itself by the diversity of its content, ranging from architecture, sculpture, and painting, to the lesser-known realms of decorative arts. It is a significant compilation that not only highlights landmark monuments but also delves into the symbolism and functionality that underpinned Egyptian art, offering readers an intricate understanding of its historical and cultural context. The collaboration between Perrot, an esteemed archaeologist, and Chipiez, an architectural historian, brings a profound depth of scholarly expertise to the work. Their backgrounds allow for a comprehensive analysis that bridges art with its societal functions, aligning the collection with broader academic discussions on ancient civilizations and their expressions of identity, power, and religiosity. This synthesis of perspectives complements the overarching theme by providing a multifaceted exploration of how material culture reflects societal values and historical changes. This anthology is recommended for readers seeking to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of ancient Egyptian art and society. The meticulous research and broad scope of 'A History of Art in Ancient Egypt' offer a unique educational opportunity, inviting a contemplative engagement with the artifacts that have shaped our understanding of ancient Egypt. For scholars and enthusiasts alike, this collection serves as both a comprehensive reference and a source of inspiration, fostering a deeper appreciation for the nuances and complexities of ancient artistic endeavors.