Search Results (69)

This paper explores racialization as a historical-sociological concept and an ongoing, contemporary material praxis, using a Global Critical Race and Racism (GCRR) framework. Racialization is an ideological and material practice of colonial conquest that requires constant reification and maintenance. This paper examines how racialization and racial practices are positioned within Egyptian state tourism campaigns, through a media content and discourse analysis, as a function of contemporary national-racial identity formation. Histories of colonial archaeology, race science, and the European colonial domination and imagination of Egypt heavily contextualize this analysis. First, the paper outlines how the identity of ancient Egyptians was a racing project fundamental to white supremacy and global race and racism in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries in ways that are intricately tied to contemporary nationalism, national identity formation, and nation-building in modern Egypt. The focus of this paper is Egypt’s agency in its national identity formation practices, wherein it acknowledges, negotiates, and markets aspects of its racialization that are economically and geopolitically advantageous, specifically within the tourism industry and in relation to Pharaonic Egypt. In this way, Egypt’s racialization is not simply externally imposed; the Egyptian state is engaging with global structures of race and racism by maintaining racial mythologies for Western imaginaries. Egypt’s contemporary national identity formation includes an engagement with its past that negotiates its position within a global hierarchy of nations across the racial-modern world system. This study explores notions of autonomy, acquiescence, and resistance under racialization by examining how nation-states engage with, resist, or leverage racialization. Full article

In recent decades, the concept of a so-called Dark Age in ancient Sudan at the beginning of the first millennium BCE has been called into question within the field of Nubian archaeology. This is primarily due to new archaeological findings at urban sites such as Tombos and Amara West, as well as new theoretical approaches developed during the postcolonial turn. This study aims to show that new remote sensing, surveys and excavations in the Attab to Ferka region of Sudan have also revealed important evidence of continued occupation after the end of Egypt’s colonial rule over Nubia. In particular, studies of settlement patterns and ceramics enrich our understanding of people’s lives during the period between 1070 and 750 BCE and allow us to expand on dynamic processes, local forms of resilience and innovation. This new understanding of the persistence of communities after the fall of colonial Nubia under Egyptian rule facilitates a more nuanced interpretation of the evolution of the Napatan Empire, thereby challenging the conventional concept of secondary states. The Attab to Ferka case study demonstrates that previously marginalised regions and communities are significant contributors to cultural dynamics and achievements during the first millennium BCE in Sudan. Full article

This study examines the construction of individual and collective identity in pre-Neolithic Egypt and the Levant through the post mortem manipulation of human remains. Focusing on funerary rituals and skull reuse, interpreted using recent anthropological theory frameworks, we propose a totemic framework of ontological identity, in which clans associated with specific animals structured their ritual and spatial practices. Based on archaeological, taphonomic, and ethnohistorical evidence, it is possible to identify how these practices reflect clan-based social units, seasonal mobility, and a reciprocal relationship with the environment, integrating corporeal and mental continuity. Plastered skulls in the Levant acted as intergenerational anchors of communal memory, while early Egyptian dismemberment practices predate the standardization of mummification and reveal the function of some structures of pre-Neolithic sanctuaries. By interpreting these mortuary rituals, we argue that selective body treatment served as a deliberate mechanism to reinforce totemic identity, transmit ancestry, and mediate ontological transitions in response to sedentarization and environmental change. Full article

This study presents the first systematic investigation of ancient Egyptian votive animal mummy wrappings, based on the analysis of an extensive dataset encompassing specimens from various museum collections and archaeological contexts. The research addresses the long-standing neglect and fragmented understanding of the wrapping chaîne opératoire and aims to establish a consistent terminology, as the different stages of the wrapping sequence, bundle shapes, and decorative patterns have often been described vaguely. Through an interdisciplinary methodology that integrates photogrammetry, colorant identification, textile analysis, and experimental archaeology, the study explores the complexity of wrapping practices across their different stages. This approach offers new insights into the structural logic, raw material selection, and design conventions behind this production. The analysis reveals that the bundles exhibit standardized shapes and decorative patterns grounded in well-established visual criteria and manufacturing sequences. These findings demonstrate that the wrappings reflect a codified visual language and a high level of technical knowledge, deeply rooted in Egyptian tradition. The study also emphasizes its economic implications: the wrapping significantly enhanced the perceived value of the offering, becoming the primary element influencing both its material and symbolic worth. Ultimately, this work provides an interpretative framework for understanding wrapping as an essential medium of ritual sacralization for votive animal mummies, allowing the individual prayer to be effectively conveyed to the intended deity. Consequently, this research marks a significant step forward in advancing the technical, aesthetic, and ritual insight of wrapping practices, which preserve a wealth of still-overlooked information. Full article

This purpose of this article is twofold. Firstly, I present an overview of the Egyptian concepts of the ba and ka, as well as the attestations of npš extant in the Iron Age Levant. This brief investigation is meant to illustrate the second point, which is the utility of Egyptian evidence for the study of Levantine culture and religion. In addition, this article may stand as a starting point for further investigation of the npš through Egyptian comparative evidence, going beyond iconographic, archaeological, and textual comparison to include comparison of concepts and ideologies. Full article

This paper focuses on the study of the arena wall decoration in the amphitheater at the archaeological site of Viminacium. The architectural characteristics of the amphitheater, along with the spectacle iconography, have made this finding one of the most interesting discoveries at Viminacium, as well as in a wider context. A multidisciplinary approach that included an iconographic and archaeological study, as well as Energy Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence (EDXRF), X-ray Powder Diffraction (XRD), and Raman and Fourier-transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy analysis, was applied to determine the palette of the pigments used for the arena wall decoration and understand the iconography and its context in more detail. Among the commonly used earth pigments (yellow, red, brown, and green colors), copper-based pigments (green and blue Egyptian blue), and the most precious ones for the period—namely, cinnabar and lapis lazuli—were identified. The applied analytical techniques enabled a tentative suggestion of the origin of the raw materials of some of the pigments that were used, such as marine sediments or rocks from different destinations. Due to the fact that the Viminacium amphitheater constitutes a typical example of a provincial building reserved for public spectacles, the results of this study will significantly contribute to our understanding of the function of the amphitheaters in the Danubian region, as well as throughout the Roman world. Full article

Artificial intelligence technologies, particularly machine learning and computer vision, are being increasingly utilized to preserve, restore, and create immersive virtual experiences with cultural artifacts and sites, thus aiding in conserving cultural heritage and making it accessible to a global audience. This paper examines the performance of Generative Adversarial Networks (GAN), especially Style-Based Generator Architecture (StyleGAN), as a deep learning approach for producing realistic images of Egyptian monuments. We used Sigmoid loss for Language–Image Pre-training (SigLIP) as a unique image–text alignment system to guide monument generation through semantic elements. We also studied truncation methods to regulate the generated image noise and identify the most effective parameter settings based on architectural representation versus diverse output creation. An improved discriminator design that combined noise addition with squeeze-and-excitation blocks and a modified MinibatchStdLayer produced 27.5% better Fréchet Inception Distance performance than the original discriminator models. Moreover, differential evolution for latent-space optimization reduced alignment mistakes during specific monument construction tasks by about 15%. We checked a wide range of truncation values from 0.1 to 1.0 and found that somewhere between 0.4 and 0.7 was the best range because it allowed for good accuracy while retaining many different architectural elements. Our findings indicate that specific model optimization strategies produce superior outcomes by creating better-quality and historically correct representations of diverse Egyptian monuments. Thus, the developed technology may be instrumental in generating educational and archaeological visualization assets while adding virtual tourism capabilities. Full article

Radiography, favoured for its ability to provide a non-invasive insight into the contents of wrapped or coffined artefacts, has revolutionised the study of mummified human and animal remains. Despite this potential, the technology is limited by its capacity to realistically visualise the surface attributes of these often-complex artefacts. In this paper, photogrammetry—a technique widely used in archaeology and heritage applications—is applied to build upon the radiographic investigation of six ancient Egyptian votive artefacts from Manchester Museum; a study which combines the two techniques for the first time on votive material from the collection. The paper showcases the results gained through clinical radiography techniques (digital X-ray and computed tomography) on the internal contents of the artefacts, highlighting the problems encountered when viewing the outer surface. With a simple on-site photogrammetry protocol, improved visualisation was possible, providing photo-realistic renderings with important potential for both research, conservation and engagement. Full article

Flax fiber reinforcements weaken with aging and microstructural changes, limiting their applications. Here, we examine the effects of microstructure and aging on flax fiber elements’ performance by using 4000-year-old and modern Egyptian flax as references through multi-scale numerical modeling. This study introduces a novel investigation into the tensile stress distribution behavior of archaeological and modern flax yarns. The finite element (FE) model is derived from 3D volumes obtained via X-ray microtomography and tensile testing in the elastic domain. At the microscale, fibers exhibit higher axial stress concentrations around surface defects and pores, particularly in regions with kink bands and lumens. At the mesoscale, fiber bundles show increased stress concentrations at inter-fiber voids and lumen, with larger bundles exhibiting greater stress heterogeneity, especially around pores and surface roughness. At the macroscale, yarns display significant stress heterogeneity, especially around microstructural defects like pores and fiber–fiber cohesion points. Aged fibers from ancient Egyptian cultural heritage in particular demonstrate large fiber discontinuities due to long-term degradation or aging. These numerical observations highlight how porosity, surface imperfections, and structural degradation increase stress concentration, leading to fiber rupture and mechanical failure. This insight reveals how aging and defects impact flax fiber performance and durability. Full article

Tracheostomy, a critical airway intervention, has a long and complex history that dates back to antiquity. While the earliest references to the procedure appear in Egyptian and Indian medical texts, its development within ancient Greek medicine remains a subject of historical debate. This study explores the evolution of tracheostomy in ancient Greece, analyzing its theoretical foundations, historical accounts, and surgical advancements. Despite Hippocratic opposition, which largely discouraged invasive airway procedures due to the risk of fatal complications, later physicians such as Asclepiades, Aretaeus, and Antyllus made significant contributions to refining airway management techniques. The anatomical studies of Galen further advanced the understanding of respiratory physiology, including early concepts of artificial ventilation. Additionally, this study examines archaeological evidence, such as a marble relief discovered in Abdera, which may depict an early attempt at tracheostomy, providing valuable insight into the practical application of airway interventions in antiquity. By comparing ancient Greek surgical techniques with modern tracheostomy practices, this research highlights the continuity of medical knowledge and innovation. It underlines the role of ancient Greek physicians in shaping the principles of thoracic surgery, offering a broader understanding of how early medical practices have influenced contemporary airway management. The findings contribute to the historical perspective on tracheostomy, emphasizing the timeless pursuit of life-saving surgical advancements and the evolving relationship between theoretical medical knowledge and practical surgical application. Full article

This study investigates the deterioration of granite graffiti at the Philae Archaeological Site on Bigeh Island (Aswan, Egypt), attributed to Khaemwaset (1281–1225 BCE, 19th Dynasty). These graffiti, despite being carved into durable Aswan granite, are experiencing progressive degradation due to environmental and hydrological factors. This research aims to analyze the mineralogical and chemical transformations affecting the graffiti to provide a comparative assessment of submerged and unsubmerged granite surfaces. A multi-analytical approach was employed, combining petrographical examination, X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray fluorescence (XRF), and scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) to identify compositional changes and deterioration patterns. The results indicate mineralogical transformations in submerged and periodically exposed surfaces. The granite primarily consists of quartz, feldspar, and biotite, with notable alterations including kaolinization and illitization and dissolution of feldspar minerals and biotite oxidation. These processes are directly linked to prolonged exposure to fluctuating water levels and recurrent wet–dry cycles, which accelerate granular disintegration, exfoliation, and surface loss. Additionally, salt crystallization, particularly halite, contributes to granite weathering, while sulfate interactions promote chemical weathering. In addition, biofilm colonization, facilitated by high moisture retention, further exacerbates surface deterioration by producing organic acids that weaken the mineral matrix. Finally, the results confirm the need for conservation interventions to mitigate ongoing damage. Full article

This study presents a multi-analytical investigation of the wooden components from Khufu’s Second Solar Boat, one of the valuable archaeological discoveries in ancient Egypt. The research integrates advanced imaging and analytical techniques to identify wood species, assess deterioration patterns, and characterize the fungal and bacterial biodeteriogens. The initial visual examination documented the state of preservation at the time of discovery. Subsequently, the identification of the wood species was carried out. The deterioration status was assessed using a variety of tools, including scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and high-resolution synchrotron radiation computed microtomography (SR-μCT) for morphological alterations, X-ray diffraction (XRD) for crystallinity changes and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) to assess chemical degradation indexes of wood. Moreover, molecular techniques were used to identify and characterize the presence of biodeterioration agents. Results indicate that ancient craftsmen used cedar wood for the boat construction. The analysed samples exhibited advanced biotic and abiotic degradation, as evidenced by microbiological assessments, XRD measurements of cellulose crystallinity, FTIR indices, SEM micrographs and SR-μCT data. These results provide crucial insights into the long-term degradation processes of archaeological wood in arid environments, enhancing our understanding of ancient Egyptian woodworking practices and informing future conservation strategies for similar artifacts. Full article

Egyptian Blue was the first synthetic pigment by humankind. It contains of cuprorivaite, which is a calcium-copper-silicate (CaCuSi₄O₁₀). This study reports the results of a mineralogical and computer tomographic study of Egyptian Blue finds from Aguntum in East Tyrol along with Retznei and Wagna (formerly Flavia Solva) from southern Styria in Austria. The present work aims to extend our understanding of the processes involved in the production of the artificial pigment Egyptian Blue. The samples were investigated with respect to their elemental composition and spatial distribution of the calcium-copper-silicate cuprorivaite CaCuSi₄O₁₀ and then compared with data from previous studies. Thin sections of an Egyptian Blue sphere from Aguntum were examined using optical microscopy (OP), micro-X-ray fluorescence analysis (μ-XRF) and scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDX). The pigment’s initial mixture as well as the manufacturing process seem to be the decisive factor for the quality of the final product. A relationship between the presence of trace iron (Fe) and titanium (Ti) with the quartz and copper source of the initial mixture is discussed. SEM-EDX analysis revealed that cuprite (Cu₂O) was used as a copper source. In addition, micro-computed tomography (µCT) of the Egyptian Blue finds (Aguntum, Retznei, Wagna-Flavia Solva) was performed. Hence, revealing several concise differences between the samples. Texture and volumetric results show a distinctive difference in cuprorivaite content and particle size. To better analyse the spatial distribution, µCT-3D images of the individual mineral phases identified within each sample were obtained. The clear differences in the results may not only enable a differentiation of the production process but also show another potential of non-destructive µCT for assessment of archaeological findings. Full article

Debates about archaeological heritage in Egypt are commonly focused on the spectacular monuments of the Pharaonic, Greek, and Roman periods. In contrast, landscapes and the long prehistory of Northeast Africa receive far more limited attention. The Cologne Summer School (CSS), ‘Environmental archaeology: dealing with cultural and natural heritage’, organised in Dakhla Oasis (Egypt) in September 2023, brought Egyptian and German students, archaeologists and heritage professionals together to discuss how heritage management, the protection of the landscape and archaeological fieldwork can be integrated meaningfully in the region. This paper summarises the results of the discussions of the summer school, set against an outline of current site-based heritage practises in Egypt and archaeological research in and around Dakhla Oasis. A major outcome of the discussions is the realisation that a distinct narrative needs to be developed for Dakhla Oasis and the surrounding desert landscape to provide an encompassing strategy for the management and protection of its archaeological heritage, from prehistoric times through Pharaonic Egypt to the recent past. Full article

Studies on emeralds from Habachtal (Austria) are scarce and non-exhaustive. However, they represent a significant interest to the community, as they have been assumed to be present in historical pieces of jewelry. Along with Egypt, Habachtal is suggested to be one of the main sources of gem-quality emeralds of archaeological significance. In this regard and due to their similar macroscopic look and geological context, it has always been challenging to distinguish Austrian and Egyptian emeralds set in historic jewelry. In this paper, a first comprehensive study of several Habchtal emeralds is presented based on a combination of classic gemology, chemistry and spectroscopy, using non-destructive to micro-destructive methods. Spectroscopic analyses, such as via Raman, FTIR and UV-Vis–NIR spectroscopies, showed that emeralds from Habachtal (Austria) contain Type II H₂O molecules with alkalis and they are colored by chromium and iron, similarly to emeralds from Egypt. Under an optical microscope (and identified by Raman spectroscopy), actinolite needle-like inclusions are frequently observed in Austrian emeralds. Other inclusions, such as quartz, plagioclase, albite, phlogopite and pyrite, can also be observed in Austrian samples. Chemical analysis of Austrian emeralds’ trace elements by LA–ICP–MS show similar results to those from Egypt, with the exception of V, K and Rb, which show a lesser content in Austrian emeralds. Thanks to the determination of inclusions combined with a careful examination of specific chemistry, this study shows that Austrian emeralds can be distinguished from their Egyptian counterpart. Full article