Where did the highly distinctive and recurrent stylised art form of ancient Egypt, with its animal headed (anthropomorphic) originate? Was it the result of natural progression, or perhaps a hybrid style, the result of external cultural influences? The answers to these questions have puzzled scholars for centuries.

Our understanding of the origins of Egyptian art has recently undergone further study during the 20th century, enabling us to push back the boundaries for this recognised stylised form from the Early Dynastic age to a much earlier date of c.5500 BC. However, in the cliffs bordering Upper Egypt and Nubia there is evidence of rock art that can predate even this early period. The rocks have been inscribed with a series of geometric designs, consisting of concentric circles, net patterns and abstract figurations dating back to the seventh millennium BC.

The course dips across the entire date line and cultural range of dynastic Egypt, with discussion and comparison on the styles and influences of each main period. Students will learn how to identify and indeed interpret the art they find.

Students study in easy to learn stages, their performance being assessed by the marked assignments, all completed within your own home. Diplomas are issued upon satisfactory completion. Topics covered within this course include the following:

Section A:
Tracing the origins of Egyptian art through magico-religious influences,
How the concept of kingship and the belief in an afterlife was depicted in Egyptian art,

Section B:
Materials and techniques used by Egyptian artists,
Symbolism and the canon of representation used in Egyptian art,

Section C:
Examining how cultural influences affected and changed Egyptian art throughout the pharaonic period.