Marvels of Materials: Authored by Doug Braun, Binghamton UniversityMain MenuMarvels of Materials: Trade and Materiality in Ancient EgyptA virtual exhibition designed by Doug Braun (Binghamton University, class of 2020)Marvels of Materials, by Doug Braun (Binghamton University)Distribution of raw materials and finished goods in the second millennium BCEThe Voyage to Punt Relief: Trading in Ancient EgyptTravertineEgyptian faienceLimestoneEgyptian blueCobaltIvoryAuthored by Doug Braun, Binghamton UniversityWoodMeet the Author: Doug BraunHilary Becker8acde8ddd866de3e1500ef02591b1ae693bb7788Written by Doug Braun, Binghamton University
12020-04-14T19:42:24-07:00Travertine11plain2020-04-15T11:47:33-07:00Travertine, also known as Egyptian alabaster, is a form of limestone which largely consists of calcite and aragonite. Travertine was a popular material for use in both architectural features and smaller-scale objects such as bowls, statuettes, and canopic jars like the one displayed here. The stone was locally sourced, with the best known quarries being near Amarna in Middle Egypt. These quarries were exploited by the Egyptians for almost 3000 years, seeing continuous use from the 4th Dynasty in the 3rd millennium BCE, all the way to the Roman period. A stone vessel like this canopic jar would have been of high value due to the sheer amount of work it may have taken an artisan to carve such a piece, especially when compared to the relatively quick and cheap production of clay vessels.
