Technological and compositional variation in pink and white pastes from a coffin set of the late Third Intermediate Period (Thebes, ca. 680–664 BCE)

A study of pink and white pastes on coffins from Ancient Thebes reveals distinct technological variations, with differences in micromorphology and elemental distribution indicating the use of multiple geological sources and workshop practices. Specifically, the inner and intermediate coffin of Pakepu, dating to 680–664 BCE, show contrasting surface layering and minor element compositions (Mg and Fe), suggesting divergent manufacturing protocols. The research employed minimally invasive techniques—optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive spectroscopy, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy—to characterize these materials, providing insights into ancient Egyptian craftsmanship and provenance studies.

Zaggia, C., Martinón-Torres, M., Collins, M., Dawson, J., & Strudwick, H. (2025). Technological and compositional variation in pink and white pastes from a coffin set of the late Third Intermediate Period (Thebes, ca. 680–664 BCE). Journal of Archaeological Science: Reports, 62, 105019. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jasrep.2025.105019