'It’s magic': scientists rediscover how to make ancient Roman colour-changing glass
Exclusive: Optical engineering that went into 1,600-year-old Lycurgus Cup has baffled experts for centuries
TL;DR
- Scientists have replicated the color-changing properties of the 1,600-year-old Roman Lycurgus Cup.
- The cup changes color from green to red depending on the light source due to embedded gold and silver nanoparticles.
- Researchers used an ancient recipe derived from a fragment of the original cup.
- The replica allows for a better understanding of Roman glass-making techniques and the challenges they faced.
- A contemporary glass sculpture inspired by the Lycurgus Cup and its mythological frieze will be unveiled.
- The study suggests the Romans may have 'hit the jackpot' in controlling the sensitive color effects.