A photographic study of ancient wall painting fragments from the archaeological site of Nuzi, dating to the Mitanni period.

These fragments originate from the ancient city of Nuzi, located in modern-day Iraq. They represent the artistic output of the Mitanni period, a time when wall painting served as a primary method for decorating the interiors of administrative and residential structures. The plaster shards retain traces of red and grey pigments, which were applied directly to the surface to create geometric or figurative motifs. Archaeological excavations at Nuzi uncovered numerous such pieces, providing evidence of the sophisticated decorative programmes employed by the inhabitants of the region during the mid-second millennium BC. The application of colour on these plaster surfaces demonstrates the technical knowledge of ancient artisans who worked with locally sourced minerals to achieve specific hues. While the original compositions remain incomplete, these remnants offer a direct connection to the aesthetic preferences of the Mitanni culture. The preservation of these fragments allows for the study of ancient mural techniques. The rough texture of the plaster base contrasts with the remnants of the painted surface, showing the physical reality of these architectural elements. By examining the layering of the pigment, one can observe the methods used to ensure adhesion to the wall surface. These objects are not merely decorative remnants, but are primary sources for understanding the material culture of Northern Mesopotamia. They provide a glimpse into the domestic and public environments of a society that existed over three millennia ago. Each fragment acts as a physical record of the artistic traditions that defined the Nuzi site, documenting the use of colour and form in an architectural context. This print captures the tactile quality of the original plaster, preserving the appearance of these historical artefacts for contemporary study.