
Keepsakes inspired by relics found in the Valley of the Kings on Egypt’s West Bank abound at Luxor bazaars. The haggle-challenged, however, might opt instead for this small-scale statue of Selket, one of the four goddesses whose figures guarded King Tutankhamun’s tomb. The hand-painted resin figure is available at The Metropolitan Museum of Art or one of its stores. $350. (http://www.metmuseum.org/store)
Hieroglyphics depict jewelry-making more than 4,000 years ago. Modern master Azza Fahmy’s hand-crafted work caused a sensation when she partnered with British fashion designer Julien Macdonald’s runway show during London’s fashion week in 2007 and 2008. Her culture collection melds her country’s traditions with current flair. (http://www.azzafahmy.com)
The shelves at legendary Egyptian market Khan el-Khalili are lined with alabaster, mother of pearl and jewelry. Bargains are plentiful, quality questionable. One thing shoppers can be sure of is that the glass perfume bottles are hand-blown. Travelers can tour glass factories, such as those in Shobra el-Khema, Cairo. This set of five is accented with 24-karat gold. $36. (http://shop.nationalgeographic.com)
Bring home the sounds of Egypt by picking up its unique instruments. This deff is made of goatskin and adorned with faux mother of pearl. $32.50. The 12-string oud, with its classic pear shape, is a descendent of the two-stringed oud that has been part of the Egyptian timbre for 3,500 years. $329. (Mid-East Ethnic Instruments, http://www.mid-east.com)
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Park Hyatt Washington
2008
Dec 10, 2012All Reads on This Topic
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