Stunning Egyptian Pyrography: History, Patterns, & More
Since the time of its birth and even for centuries later, pyrography was a painstaking craft; Egyptian pyrography can attest to that. Pyrography in modern times has been made easy enough to occupy a place in the corner of our homes. In ancient times, however, the process was neither easy nor as convenient.
The oldest records of pyrography or wood burning can be found in records of ancient Egypt or elsewhere in Africa. The Egyptians continue to dazzle us to this day with examples of meticulous, intricate art. It stands to reason that pyrography would also be included.
In today’s blog post, we will touch on some details about how wood-burning craft was back in the days in Egypt. We will also talk about how the craft has changed in the same country, and how you can attempt similar pieces of pyrography.
Let’s delve in!
Pyrography In Ancient Egypt
Timeline
Wood burn art in this particular area traces back to even 3000 BCE!
According to veteran Pyrographer Robert Boyer, pyrography might have existed in the prehistoric era. It does sound reasonable that humans would learn to start a fire and try to use it for artistic purposes. However, specimens from that time are sparse.
Scope
In ancient times, Egyptian artists and artisans used a variety of materials to beautify their homes, temples, and tombs. Wood from both native and imported trees was used as the base of pyrography.
Wood Type
Records reveal that among these trees, the soft wood of acacia trees was notable, as were tamarisk, and sycamore fig wood. In fact, they also imported wood from Syria, especially the wood of coniferous trees such as fir and cedar.
Method
Mechanical equipment was not available, so artisans had to carefully burn patterns on wood pieces which took hours and days. The aforementioned woods were brought to life under their skillful ministrations, and examples of this craft exist to this day.
Pyrography in Modern Egypt
Over time, the pyramid-builders were put to rest, but their legacy remained. Accordingly, the ancient art of pyrography continued and is practiced the people in this locality even now.
The style and subject matter have changed to accommodate the new age. Pyrography tools have also gone through some heavy upgradation. Yet, the artworks by the local artists remain as stunning as those of their predecessors.
One of the celebrated pyrography artists in Egypt is Mai Ali Nada, who came into the spotlight in 2018 for her soulful pyrography portraits. In an interview, the artist explained that each of the portraits takes months to complete, as each dot has to be carefully burned on the wood of her canvas.
The artist mentioned that she had to develop her considerable skillset for over six years, and still does not sell her pyrography works.
Besides this one artist, many artisans produce pyrography pieces with a flavor of ancient Egyptian art. From hieroglyphics to depictions of deities, you’ll be able to find all sorts of pyrography pieces in both online and offline stores these days. From boxes, coasters, plaques, decorative wall hangings, and cutlery – you’ll find this art in many forms.
Want To Try It Out?
After getting a good look at Egyptian pyrography, any self-respecting pyrography enthusiast would want to give it a go.
Attempting Egyptian pyrography really isn’t much different from trying out any other type of pyrography, because, in the end, you’re just going to use the tools and wood available to you locally. The main focus should be on the pattern.
To make your job easier, we’re going to give you a few pointers.
Beginner Level
If you’re a beginner, it’s best to not try anything too intricate. You should focus on patterns that largely consist of straight lines. Geometric patterns are the best in this case, and what better subject than the pyramids? You can pair up pyramids with a stylized sun, and even a few hieroglyphs if you’re feeling bold!
Intermediate Level
I use the term intermediate level loosely, but by now you should be confident in your pyrography skills. If you’re looking for a fun project, you can pick an assortment of Egyptian symbols centered around a larger silhouette. Focusing on the smaller details will be a good way to challenge yourself.
Advanced Level
Have you already got a good few years’ worth of pyrography practice under your belt? This might be the time to push yourself. Egyptian motifs and patterns with extensive shading and depth would be just the thing for you.
There are many more patterns available on the internet. If you’re fairly confident, you can even try composing a pattern from the historical Nile Valley art and transferring it to wood. For a more authentic look, you can try working on darker wood, or use a dark polish or varnish afterward. You can check a few videos in this regard: Egyptian style in woodburning and woodburning of an Egyptian motif.
In addition, you will know about pyrography history in brief here.
Some Additional Links
Conclusion
Gone are the days when Egyptian pyrography meant heating a poker on a stove and burning the face of Ra or Osiris on a piece of wood. Now, pieces of pyrography with motifs from the Land of the Pharaohs are being sold across the world. It means more recognition for the artisans and the art style itself, and that’s definitely a good thing.
Do you own a piece of such pyrography yourself? Or have you ever tried it? Let us know in the comments!
