Reflections into Ptolemaic Glass II: Characterizing Yellow, Yellowish‐orange, Red, and Brown Inlays from Tebtynis

Abstract

A systematic and extensive analytical study was carried out on the loose inlays discovered in the Ptolemaic workshop of Tebtynis (Fayum oasis, Egypt). This paper presents data derived from the multi‐methodological archaeometric investigations (OM, SEM‐EDS, EPMA, micro‐Raman spectroscopy) performed on a set of intentionally colored and opacified glasses. In particular, we will discuss the textural, chemical and mineralogical results related to the study of the yellow, yellowish‐orange, red, and brown inlays and semi‐finished/waste products now preserved at the Museo Egizio, Torino.The results highlight the presence of natron (LMG) and plant ash (HMG) base glass, coexisting with intermediate compositions. Yellow samples are opacified using lead antimonates doped with iron and sometimes tin; on the contrary, yellowish‐orange specimens and the only brown sample are characterized by nanocrystals of cuprite. Red glasses are found in two variants: dull reds are HMG with colloidal metallic copper particles, while sealing‐wax reds show LMG composition, associated with dendritic cuprite dispersed in a transparent, greenish matrix.