THE IRON WORKS OF THE PHARAOHS.

Evening Star, Issue 3275, 19 August 1873, Page 3

THE IRON WORKS OF THE PHARAOHS.

In the last number of the new scientific weekly paper Iron, Mr Chas, Vincent gives some highly interesting facts in connection with the iron works of the Pharaohs. The process of iron smelting was carried on in Egypt at a much earlier period than has been generally supposed. In the sepulchres of Thebes may be found delineations of butchers sharpening their knives on round bars of iron attached to their aprons. The blades of the knives are painted blue, which fact proves that they were of steel, for in the tomb of Rameses 111. this color is used to indicate steel, bronze being represented by red. An English gentleman has recently discovered near the wells of Moses, by the Red Sea, the remains of iron works so vast that they must have employed thousands of workmen. Near the works are to be found the ruins of a temple, and of a barracks for the soldiers protecting or keeping in order the workmen. These works are supposed to he at least 3,000 years old. Near the same spot there are turquoise mines of the ancient Egyptians, and the very tools that were used. It seems that these mines were by no means exhausted, and several specimens of fine turquoises have been lately obtained from them and sent over to England as specimens.