This dramatic new third edition unveils fresh evidence revealing a hitherto unnoticed connection between a Macedonian funerary sculpture found in the foundations of the Basilica di San Marco (St Marks) in Venice and the sarcophagus of an Egyptian Pharaoh shipped to London from Alexandria in 1801. The previous editions of this book traced the trails of these relics to show that both might have come from Alexander's tomb in Alexandria. In this extended account, it is demonstrated that the sculptural relief was perfectly fitted to the sarcophagus, a fact hitherto obscured by ancient damage to the relief and more modern trimming of the sarcophagus at the hands of the British Museum. The author writes: "When I embarked upon the deck of this Odyssey, it seemed to me that shipwreck was my eventual destiny, but now beyond the raging, roiling sea, I have glimpsed the shore of verdant Valinor unveiled before me. Though I may yet come to grief upon some reef, washed by waves of disbelief, I voyage on to vindication, my vessel's ordained destination. With greatness grazing on the verge of rediscovery, we may surely see the resolution of this mystery. So let my sail now be unfurled to catch the wind and win the world Alexander's long-lost legacy, the parted parts of his shattered tomb and battered body."
Over 100 illustrations.