With sophisticated and increased technology, documenting and investigating aspects of paint and polychromy of ancient near eastern art has advanced greatly in recent years. The means to understand the process of paint application have greatly improved, not only through the contribution of analytic methods of the natural sciences, but also by increased interest in experimental photography, imaging techniques, pigment analysis, all of which provide a much broader spectrum in looking at the interface between technology, history, archaeology and cultural studies. Until recently, however, the general significance of polychromy in ancient near eastern art has generally been overlooked and published discussions of distinct technologies, the paint processes and raw materials are still missing. Developments in the sciences and technologies, including new photographic and imaging techniques, geochemistry as well as new modes in interpreting ancient polychromy have provided the means to base these debates on more secure grounds. Growing interest in polychromy and paint archaeology has accelerated the study of sites, monuments and single artifacts.

In this workshop, professionals from Conservation Science, Archaeology, Anthropology and other disciplines working on aspects of the role, technology and preservation of polychromy and color in ancient near eastern art. The focus will be on documenting remaining traces of paint and other surface finishes in architectural sculpture and other materials.

Interested speakers will need to submit a title and abstract (max. 200 words) at the link provided http://www.asor.org/am/2014/call-for-papers.html. Please send inquiries or questions to Alexander Nagel (nagela@si.edu).