Author Description

For thousands of years the slender-legged, nimble little Egyptian donkey has figured prominently in the landscape and life of the country; in its mythology, theology and demonology, and in many other ways. In ancient times he was revered as a god. Later however, he was vilified as the personification of "the Evil One". At times he was used as a mount, a beast of burden, a farm hand and a jack of all trades. As such he has been appreciated and praised, but also, all too often, exploited, brutalised, despised and derided. Sadly, the Egyptian donkey's days are numbered. From having been, for thousands of years, a vital part of Egypt's daily life, an indispensable asset to the country's economy, he will soon be yet another forgotten hero for future generations to rediscover on the walls of temples and tombs, where he was immortalised in antiquity, and in the works of generation upon generation of writers, artists and travellers whom he served well, enchanting and inspiring them with his grace and unique qualities.