Orpiment, shown above in its natural form and also pigment form, was widely used in Egypt during and after the 18th dynasty, about 1500 BC. During this period the very progressive and successful female pharaoh, Hatshepsut, was in power. It is thought that she initiated trade with other countries and the use of orpiment began because of her. Because … [Read more...] about Arsenic in the Stew
pigments
Malachite in the Raw
While at the Smithsonian Museum this past March, I found many examples of pigments as they are found in nature. This chunk shows the beautiful greens of malachite with true blue veins of azurite. Coming in March 2011 Lessons from the Pharaoh's Tomb, Part ll, Galerie Gabrie, Pasadena … [Read more...] about Malachite in the Raw
Oil Change
As I said in the previous post, the Egyptian artists mixed pigment with egg or acacia sap which is also known a gum arabic. Both are binders for a water based paint. Another binder for water based paint is acrylic or egg yolk or even sometimes the whole egg. Often egg is used as a binder in oil painting also. The equivalent to this in oil … [Read more...] about Oil Change
One Down, Many to Go
This detail is from the first completed painting in the new Part ll project which shows both versions of malachite. Impasto paint was floated onto the surface of the jar in the focal areas. Across the table is a golden cloth which is used as a perfect foil for the bluish green of the jar setting it off nicely. According to Francois Delamare and … [Read more...] about One Down, Many to Go
Lessons from the Pharaoh’s Tomb, Part Two
Announcing Lessons from the Pharaoh's Tomb, Part Two Galerie Gabrie, Pasadena, in March 2011. More intriguing myths, Gods, Goddesses, symbols, tombs, temples and stories from Ancient Egypt featuring pigments and new paintings. With only a few exceptions, all paintings in this new series will be created using pigments used by Egyptian … [Read more...] about Lessons from the Pharaoh’s Tomb, Part Two
The Pharaoh Returns
Those of you who have traveled to Egypt or studied the culture perhaps experience a similar passion. My curiosity is insatiable since traveling down the River Nile and becoming familiar with this amazing vast span of history. One could research this historical period, say, 3500 BCE to Cleopatra's era at 35 BCE for a lifetime and still not … [Read more...] about The Pharaoh Returns