Zangindurû (Egyptian blue)

Ingredients

Zangindurû, Egyptian blue

Preparation Steps

Original Recipe Text

The text describes the pigment as an imitation of lapis-lazuli (p. 53). It is referred to in related Mesopotamian documents as 'uknû merku', meaning 'moulded lapis-lazuli', implying an artificial manufacturing process (p. 53, note 72).

Evidence

"the Neo-Assyrian Zangindurû color seems to find its significance as an imitation of lapis-lazuli, especially in respect of its visual and intrinsic value, such as its sheen and its positive and amuletic/ protective properties, which lent persons and things the appearance of ritual purity."

Remarks

The bright blue pigment was used in cuneiform carved inscriptions to highlight written words (p. 53). The use of dark blue in these inscriptions probably evolved from lighter shades (green) used in the Old Kingdom (p. 53). It served not just a decorative purpose but a symbolic, amuletic, and apotropaic function (p. 53).