Petrie, William Matthew Flinders

Petrie, William Matthew Flinders 

Born June 3, 1853, in Charlton; died July 28, 1942, in Jerusalem. English Egyptologist and archaeologist. Professor at the University of London from 1892 to 1933.

Petrie pioneered the scientific method of archaeological excavation in Egypt. In 1885-86 he discovered and excavated Nau-cratis and Daphnae. Between 1888 and 1890 he discovered numerous remains in the Faiyum Oasis. In succeeding years he conducted excavations in Tell el-Amarna, Abydos (the tombs of the most ancient Pharaohs), and Neqada (Aeneolithic complexes), which is near Memphis. Especially important among Petrie’s works is his atlas of tools of all periods and peoples.

WORKS

A History of Egypt, vols. 1-3. London, 1894-1905.
Prehistoric Egypt. London, 1920.
Social Life in Ancient Egypt. London, 1924.
Ancient Gaza, vols. 1-4. London, 1931-34.
Tools and Weapons Illustrated by the Egyptian Collection in University College. London, 1917.