Radiology Reveals Secrets of Egyptian Mummies and Europe's Oldest Blue Pigment Uncovered
New research using radiology uncovers Egyptian mummy secrets, while Europe's oldest blue pigment dating back 13,000 years redefines our understanding of prehistoric art.
- • Dr. Carlos Silva Prates will present lectures revealing insights into Egyptian mummies using CT scans and radiology.
- • A 13,000-year-old artifact found in Germany contains Europe's oldest blue pigment, azurite, previously undocumented in Paleolithic art.
- • Research highlights broader use of color by Stone Age peoples, possibly in rituals or body painting.
- • The European pigment study involved 13 research institutions, showcasing successful international collaboration.
Key details
Recent scientific advancements are shedding new light on cultural heritage through cutting-edge research in archaeology and science. On October 7th, Dr. Carlos Silva Prates, a physician and radiologist, will deliver two lectures hosted by the Algarve Archaeological Association (AAA) focusing on radiology’s role in unveiling the hidden histories of Egyptian mummies. Utilizing CT scans and non-destructive X-ray technology since 2002, Dr. Prates has explored mummification practices, diseases, and the causes of death of ancient individuals without damaging the artifacts. His talks, including one at the Museu do Traje in São Bras de Alportel and another at the Convento de São José in Lagoa, will highlight over 130 years of radiological discoveries that connect modern science with ancient history. Meanwhile, in northern Europe, a 13,000-year-old stone artifact found in Germany has revealed the oldest known blue pigment in Europe, azurite, changing previous beliefs that Paleolithic humans primarily used red and black pigments. Swedish National Heritage Board's Sara Norrehed described the pigment’s discovery as revolutionary, suggesting Paleolithic people had access to a broader color palette, potentially used in burial rites or body painting. This research, published in Antiquity, was a collaborative effort involving 13 European institutions, emphasizing the value of international cooperation in cultural heritage science. Together, these scientific discoveries provide unprecedented insights into prehistoric and ancient peoples, enriching our understanding of European and Egyptian cultural legacies.