Ancient Pigment Egyptian Blue Revived by US Researchers

A team of researchers from Washington State University, in collaboration with the Carnegie Museum of Natural History and the Smithsonian’s Museum Conservation Institute, has successfully recreated Egyptian blue, the oldest known synthetic pigment in the world. Originally developed over 5,000 years ago, the pigment was commonly used in ancient Egyptian art, tombs, and architecture.

The scientists tested 12 different methods to reproduce the pigment, adjusting materials and heating times to mirror ancient techniques. They discovered that a rich, vivid blue could be achieved even when only half of the mixture’s colour-bearing component was used—challenging previous assumptions about how the pigment was made. Small variations in temperature and ingredients also caused the colour to shift, from pale greens to intense blues and even greys.

Beyond its historic value, Egyptian blue has properties that make it relevant for modern technology. It absorbs visible light and emits infrared radiation, which can be applied in biomedical imaging, telecommunications, and anti-counterfeiting technologies.

The recreated pigment is now on display at the Carnegie Museum of Natural History in Pittsburgh.