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
12020-04-14T19:58:28-07:00Limestone7plain2020-04-15T13:40:07-07:00 Limestone is a sedimentary rock, defined by high levels of calcite, which is notable for its easy workability and relative softness. The ease with which limestone could be worked made it ideal for sculpture, in fact, limestone is likely the first stone used for sculpture within Egypt. Limestone is relatively common throughout Egypt, making it easy to acquire for architectural or artistic purposes. Despite its ubiquity, varieties of limestone, such as Tura limestone, were prized across Egypt for their durability and color. Limestone remained a popular building material throughout Egyptian history, becoming the chief building stone of Lower Egypt. Limestone was also a common sculptural material in Egypt, as demonstrated by this bust. In order to work with limestone as a sculptor, one would start their work from a plaster bust or mask of the figure, and draw the figure’s shape on a block of limestone, sculpting along the contours they drew.
