In 1922 the world came face to face with a young pharaoh: in that year the tomb of Tutankhamun was discovered and his breathtaking gold mask became known to everybody. Ancient Egyptian gold is known to all of us. But what was the significance of gold in Ancient Egyptian society? Where was it found and how was it won? And where did the Ancient Egyptian goldsmith work and what techniques did he master? The first part of this book answers the questions mentioned above. The second part is a catalogue of gold objects which are part of the renowned and outstanding collection of the Egyptian Department of the National Museum of Antiquities in Leiden. By means of a technical examination of these objects, this book gives a unique and innovatory insight in the work of the ancient Egyptian goldsmith, who was able to accomplish true work of art though working in hot and basic circumstances.