The extraordinary life of Gertrude Bell was marked by myriad achievements. Although best known for her intrepid desert travels and her part in the creation of the modern state of Iraq, she also
made a significant contribution to the field of archaeology. At the height of her career, Bell journeyed into the heart of the Middle East retracing the steps of the ancient rulers who left
tangible markers of their presence in the form of castles, palaces, mosques, tombs and temples. Among the many sites she visited were Ephesus, Binbirkilise and Carchemish in modern-day Turkey
as well as Ukhaidir, Babylon and Najaf within the borders of modern Iraq. Lisa Cooper here explores Bell’s achievements, emphasizing the tenacious, inquisitive side of her extraordinary
personality, the breadth of her knowledge and her overall contribution to the archaeology of the Middle East. Featuring many of Bell’s own photographs, this is a unique portrait of a remarkable
life.
