Advanced Techniques Reveal Ancient Egyptian Artists' Materials, Including Unexpected Plant-Based Proteins
An international team of researchers has utilized advanced chemical analysis techniques, including proteomics, to identify the specific ingredients used by ancient Egyptian artists and artisans in their paints and adhesives. The study, published in Science Advances, analyzed tiny samples from 14 artifacts dating from 1425 BC to 400 AD, including painted wooden coffins, wall paintings, and plaster. The findings confirm the widespread use of animal-derived collagen, primarily from beef, sheep, goat, donkey, and horse, as both adhesive and paint binder. Unexpectedly, the research also uncovered the first molecular confirmation of plant-based proteins from sesame and moringa in paint layers on a wooden coffin and a mural. Additionally, proteins from wheat, barley, and rye were identified in other wall paintings. These discoveries provide insights into the technical, artistic, cultural, economic, symbolic, and religious motivations behind the selection of these biological materials. 
