AUC Press is deeply saddened by the passing of acclaimed Egyptian photographer Sherif Sonbol (1956–2023).
For many years a photojournalist for Egyptian newspapers al-Ahram, Al-Ahram Weekly, and Ahram Online, Sonbol was best known for his extraordinary photographs of Egypt’s wealth of architectural and artistic heritage. His work was published in numerous books and showcased at multiple international exhibitions in locations as widely varied as New York, Munich, and Kakkola.
Sonbol was also the official photographer for Egypt’s Opera House, from its opening in 1988 until 2013. In 2003, his dance photographs were displayed at the New York Public Library for the Performing Arts at the Lincoln Center and described by The New York Times as “stunning and revelatory.”
He was the photographer of several highly illustrated books published by AUC Press, including The History and Religious Heritage of Old Cairo: Its Fortress, Churches, Synagogue, and Mosque (edited by Carolyn Ludwig and Morris Jackson, 2013); The Churches of Egypt: From the Journey of the Holy Family to the Present Day (edited by Carolyn Ludwig, 2012); The Nile Cruise: An Illustrated Journey (with text by Jenny Jobbins, 2010); and Mulid!: Carnivals of Faith (by Tarek Atia, 1999).
He was also the photographer of Egyptian Palaces and Villas, 1808–1960, by Shirley Johnston, which was published by Harry Abrams and AUC Press in 2006.
Our thoughts are with Sherif’s family at this difficult time.
