Papyrus

Plant of the sedge family. It was widespread in the uncultivated, swampy areas of the ancient Nile Delta and was exploited for many practical purposes including the making of baskets and boats. As a material for the use of scribes and artists, it has a history going back to at least the 3rd millennium BC. This article focuses on the manufacture and history of papyrus as a material used in writing and painting.

See the Abbreviations for further details.