Egyptian hieroglyphics mural in Evolution of the Book series 1896

John White Alexander created this scene of Egyptian hieroglyphics as part of his Evolution of the Book series. Painted during a period of Western fascination with ancient civilizations, the mural reflects a romanticized view of Egyptian culture. The artist's choices in depicting the figures are interesting. We see a male figure diligently carving hieroglyphs, and a woman reclining, gazing out at the pyramids. Alexander seems to reinforce traditional gender roles, where men are engaged in labor and women are present as objects of beauty. Consider the loaded history of Western artists representing non-Western subjects. How does this artwork perpetuate or challenge stereotypes about ancient Egyptians? The mural, with its soft colors and idealized figures, evokes a sense of timeless beauty. Yet, it also prompts questions about cultural appropriation, and the power dynamics inherent in representing another culture's history.