Proteomic analysis reveals sesame and moringa in ancient Egyptian paints

Scientists have uncovered the biological composition of ancient Egyptian painting binders, revealing the use of unexpected plant proteins alongside traditional animal glues. The findings, published August 26 in the journal Science Advances, provide the first molecular evidence of sesame and moringa being integrated into the region's artistic materials.

Using paleoproteomics and mass spectrometry, researchers analyzed 28 microsamples taken from 14 painted objects. These artifacts, which date from approximately 1425 BCE to 400 CE, included fragments from the Tomb of Nebamun and various Greco-Roman wooden coffins. The analysis identified a diverse array of animal glues derived from cattle, horses, donkeys, sheep, goats, and antelope relatives. Most notably, the team detected proteins from sesame in both the Nebamun paintings and a coffin, while proteins from Moringa oleifera were specifically found in the red paint of a Greco-Roman coffin.

The shift to paleoproteomics

While the pigments used in ancient Egyptian art have been studied for decades, the binders—the substances that allow pigment to adhere to a surface—have remained elusive. Traditional chemical analysis often requires destructive sampling, which is prohibited for precious antiquities. Paleoproteomics solves this by identifying specific peptide "fingerprints" from microscopic samples. This allows scientists to pinpoint the exact species of animals and plants used in ancient workshops without damaging the artifacts.

Economic and religious implications

These findings suggest a sophisticated link between the ancient Egyptian economy and its artistic practices. Researchers believe the sesame and moringa proteins were likely protein-rich by-products of oil processing, repurposed as binders or additives in paint. This indicates that artists were utilizing industrial waste from oil production to create their mediums.

Beyond utility, the choice of materials may have carried deep symbolic weight. The use of moringa, for instance, may be linked to the deity Ptah, who was described in ancient texts as "Ptah Who is Under His Moringa Tree." This suggests that certain materials were selected not for their adhesive properties, but for their perceived ability to provide protection or serve as a religious dedication.

Future directions

Lead author Clara Granzotto noted that this represents the first molecular evidence of these two plants in painted Egyptian artifacts. As proteomic tools become more refined, researchers expect to uncover further details about the trade routes and botanical resources available to ancient artisans. Future studies will likely focus on whether these plant-based binders were standard across different dynasties or reserved for high-status funerary objects.