Archaeology breakthrough as one of the most precious materials discovered in emperor's home
Roman Coins archaeology
BBC
Archaeologists have unearthed a rare and substantial Egyptian blue ingot at Emperor Nero's Domus Aurea palace in Rome, marking one of the most significant discoveries at the ancient imperial residence.
The remarkable find at the "Golden House", which dates from AD 54-68, offers unprecedented insights into the artistic techniques of ancient Rome.
The discovery is now considered one of the most precious pigment artefacts from the ancient world, bridging the artistic heritage between the Roman Empire and Renaissance periods.
The newly discovered ingot boasts impressive dimensions, measuring 5.9 inches in height and weighing 5.29 pounds.
The newly discovered ingot boasts impressive dimensions, measuring 5.9 inches in height and weighing 5.29 pounds
Parco archeologico del Colosseo
This substantial size makes it particularly noteworthy, as Egyptian blue pigments are typically found in smaller fragments or powder form, such as those discovered at Pompeii.
The ingot's presence at the imperial residence indicates a high level of specialisation among Roman artisans of the period.
Egyptian blue, first developed over 4,000 years ago in Egypt and Mesopotamia, was known to Romans as caeruleum.
The distinctive pigment was created through a complex process involving the heating of limestone, copper-containing minerals, silica and sodium carbonate at high temperatures.
MORE LIKE THIS:
- Archaeology breakthrough: Man discovers 66-million-year-old 'vomit fossil' in 'truly unusual find'
- Archaeology breakthrough: Secret underground tunnel system built by Incas beneath Cusco discovered
- Archaeology breakthrough as Viking remains suggest raiders may have been Britons' ancestors returning home
The resulting vibrant blue became highly sought-after, spreading throughout the Mediterranean region before becoming a cornerstone of Roman decoration.
The discovery at Domus Aurea also revealed additional artistic materials, including yellow ochre pigments preserved in an amphora.
Various red pigments were also found at the site, including realgar and red earth, demonstrating the diverse palette used in the palace's decorations.
These findings collectively highlight the sophisticated decoration methods employed in Emperor Nero's imperial residence.
The discovery at Domus Aurea also revealed additional artistic materials, including yellow ochre pigments preserved in an amphora
Parco archeologico del Colosseo
Egyptian blue became a favourite among ancient Rome's finest artists, prized for its versatile artistic properties.
The pigment was particularly valued for its ability to create shadows and depict intricate folds in garments.
Artists also utilised the distinctive blue to add luminous highlights to eyes and create an overall glowing effect in their artwork.
The widespread popularity of this pigment throughout the Roman Empire underscores its importance in ancient artistic techniques.
You may like
