
Archaeologists working at the Domus Aurea, Emperor Nero’s grand palace in ancient Rome, have uncovered a rare and remarkable artifact: a large ingot of Egyptian blue, the world’s first synthetic pigment.
This discovery sheds new light on the advanced techniques and artistic sophistication behind the palace’s lavish decorations.
The ingot, measuring 15 centimeters tall and weighing 2.4 kilograms, is an extraordinary find. Typically, Egyptian blue is found in powdered form or as small fragments, such as those recovered at Pompeii.
The size and weight of this piece make it unprecedented in archaeological records and suggest a high degree of specialization among the artisans who worked on Nero’s residence.
Workshops and decorative materials
The discovery was part of recent excavations that also revealed traces of workshops where decorative materials for the palace’s frescoes were prepared.
Two jars, used during the palace’s construction, contained remnants of pigments such as yellow ochre, red earth, and realgar—a red mineral pigment. These findings offer new insights into the methods used to create the intricate frescoes that adorned the palace walls.
The workshops were key to producing the materials needed for the Domus Aurea’s ornate interior. This organizational sophistication highlights the scale and ambition of Nero’s project, which transformed the heart of Rome following the great fire of 64 AD.
Egyptian blue: The world’s first synthetic pigment
Egyptian blue, also known as “frit,” was a man-made pigment created by heating a mixture of silica, limestone, copper-containing minerals, and sodium carbonate at high temperatures. This process, first described by the Roman architect Vitruvius in De Architectura, produced a vibrant, durable blue that was highly prized in ancient art.
First developed in Egypt and Mesopotamia over 4,000 years ago, Egyptian blue spread across the Mediterranean and became a cornerstone of Roman decoration.
Artists valued its ability to produce luminous effects, using it to create shadows, folds in garments, and glowing highlights in eyes.
The discovery of such a large ingot underscores the luxury and technical expertise that defined the Domus Aurea. Alfonsina Russo, director of the Colosseum Archaeological Park said that the artisans used rare and costly materials, along with advanced techniques far ahead of their time.
Historical context and artistic significance
Built as a symbol of Nero’s power and wealth, the Domus Aurea – Latin for “Golden House” – was constructed after the great fire of Rome destroyed much of the city. The palace’s scale and rapid construction reflected Nero’s determination to leave a lasting legacy.
Although unfinished at the time of Nero’s death in 68 AD, the palace remains a testament to Roman architectural brilliance.
The artistic significance of Egyptian blue extends beyond ancient Rome. During the Renaissance, artists rediscovered the frescoes of the Domus Aurea and drew inspiration from their techniques.
Raphael’s The Triumph of Galatea is a notable example, with Egyptian blue used to create glowing effects in the composition.
Triumph of Galatea, 1512, Raphael pic.twitter.com/3ddmrgQSOy
— 🍀 jheronimus🪽 (@jheronimusx) January 20, 2023
A link across time
The find of Egyptian blue ingot at the Emperor Nero’s palace connects two pivotal periods in art history: the grandeur of the Roman Empire and the Renaissance revival of its techniques. It also reinforces the Domus Aurea’s status as not only an architectural marvel but also a repository of artistic knowledge.
As excavations continue, researchers hope to uncover more about the materials and methods used in the palace’s decoration.
The Domus Aurea remains a vital source of insight into ancient Roman craftsmanship, offering a glimpse into the luxury and innovation of one of history’s most ambitious construction projects.