The Epigraphic Survey of the Institute for the Study of Ancient Cultures of the University of Chicago, based at Chicago House in Luxor, Egypt, is directed by J. Brett McClain.
The mission of the Survey since its founding in 1924 has been to produce photographs and precise line drawings of the inscriptions and relief scenes on major temples and tombs at Luxor for publication. More recently the Survey has expanded its program to include conservation, restoration, site management, and conservation training, and new digital drawing techniques have been integrated into our documentation program. In addition to the field director, the professional staff of the Survey normally includes three to four epigraphers, four to five artists, multiple digital and film photographers, architects, librarians, conservators, stonemasons, IT consultants, and finance/administrators. The epigraphers and artists include both graduate students and post-doctoral scholars who have received training in all aspects of Egyptology. The Epigraphic Survey's archaeological field season runs from October 15 to April 15 each year. Current long-term project sites include Luxor Temple, Medinet Habu, Theban Tomb 107, and the Temple of Khonsu at Karnak. Most of our programs are made possible by grants (including USAID Egypt, the Rockefeller Brothers Fund, and the World Monuments Fund) and much appreciated private and corporate contributions.
Click on 'Current Season' for monthly updates and news.
To access our new digitalEPIGRAPHY digital drawing web site, use this link: http://www.digital-epigraphy.com
For any questions feel free to contact Chicago House director J. Brett McClain directly at: jbmcclai@uchicago.edu
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