Career
Initially trained in engineering, in 1908 Engelbach had to discontinue his studies due to a long illness. In 1909-1910 he went to convalesce in Egypt where he became fascinated by ancient Egyptian culture. In 1911 he started a collaboration with Sir Flinders as his assistant, excavating in various places such as Heliopolis, Riqqeh and Harageh.
He later excavated in the Near East too.
He subsequently earned a remarkable number of charges and awards and began working at the Cairo Museum. His career, formed on both field and museum, culminated with the creation of the Register of the antiquities in the Cairo Museum.
He died in Cairo on February 26, 1946.