An international team of researchers has uncovered significant findings in the tomb of Thutmose III in the Valley of the Kings, Egypt. The study, which began in 2018, represents an unprecedented effort to analyze the ancient wall paintings with modern technology, leading to revelations about the techniques and materials used by ancient Egyptian artists. The results have wide-reaching implications for our understanding of Egyptian art and its cultural connections.
The project is a joint venture between the European Center for Archaeometry (CEA) at the University of Liège, the Laboratory of Molecular and Structural Archaeology (LAMS) at the University of Paris-Sorbonne, and the Center for Studies and Documentation of Ancient Egypt (CEDAE) under the Supreme Council of Antiquities (SCA). By utilizing a portable laboratory, the team was able to conduct non-invasive physical-chemical analysis in situ, avoiding damage to the fragile wall paintings.
The researchers employed a rigorous and systematic approach, contrasting with previous methods that were often limited to isolated analyses. This comprehensive study aimed to understand not only the pigments and binders used but also the broader cultural context and artistic techniques. David Strivay, a researcher at the University of Liège, explained, With these analyses, we hope to understand the choice and application of the pigments and binders used in these mural paintings, but also to establish comparisons with previous analyses and those we will conduct in the future.
The project’s first major breakthrough came with the analysis of the tomb of Thutmose III, where researchers found an unusual combination of high-quality pigments and innovative color blends. This finding challenged existing notions about ancient Egyptian art and suggested cultural exchanges with the Minoan civilization. Catherine Defeyt, a FED-tWIN researcher at the CEA, stated, The analyses carried out during the 2024 campaign revealed an unprecedented mix of colors and high-quality pigments. This observation calls into question established knowledge about Egyptian art. Philippe Martinez, an Egyptologist at the University of Paris-Sorbonne and project leader, added, The techniques used could be the result of intense cultural exchanges with the Minoan world.
The detailed study of the pigments and artistic techniques also provided insights into the symbolic significance of the colors. For example, the black lines of the oujdat eye, often used for magical and medical protection, were composed of galena, a black mineral powder also employed in ancient Egyptian makeup. This finding, along with others, indicates a complex interplay between artistic, magical, and medicinal practices in ancient Egypt.
Despite logistical difficulties due to the tomb’s location and ventilation issues, the portable laboratory played a crucial role in the project’s success. The team even created a 3D model of the tomb, offering a new perspective on its architectural design. Philippe Martinez emphasized the importance of this research in enhancing our understanding of ancient Egyptian culture, stating that these discoveries could guide future restoration efforts by the Supreme Council of Antiquities.
Given these fascinating revelations, a new research campaign is planned for late 2024 or early 2025, promising to uncover even more secrets hidden within the tombs of ancient Egypt.
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