With the arrival of more sophisticated technologies and balanced approaches, scholars and scientists have begun to understand and experience aspects of ancient Near Eastern sculptural and architectural polychromy at a new level. Advanced imaging techniques, experimental photography, and pigment analysis have prompted modern reconstructions, thus deepening our understanding of the technical aspects of ancient craft production. How have these new developments changed our perception of the ancient Near Eastern built environment and material culture? What do we know about the application of colorants and the craftsmen involved in the process? Which measures were taken to preserve polychrome surfaces and decoration by past generations and how have modern generations experienced or reconstructed the colorful environments of the Near East? An intersection between the sciences and cultural studies including archival and historiographical approaches, this workshop will bring together professionals from various disciplines including conservation science, museum studies, architecture, archaeology and history working on aspects of the experience and reconstruction of color in the ancient Near East.

Interested speakers will need to submit a title and abstract (max. 200 words) at the link provided http://www.asor.org/am/2015/call-for-papers.html by February 15, 2015. Please send inquiries or questions to Shiyanthi Thavapalan (shiyanthi.thavapalan@yale.edu) and Alex Nagel (nagela@si.edu).