Mummy mask of a woman (Medelhavsmuseet, MM 14957)

Proteins Reveal Complex Paint Recipes in Ancient Egyptian Artworks

A study of 28 microscopic samples from 14 Egyptian artworks has identified animal glues from several species along with plant proteins linked to sesame and moringa. The findings suggest painters may have used seed-processing byproducts, offering new information for both ancient craft history and conservation.