Plaster is a building material used to coat walls and ceilings, providing a smooth, durable surface. It is typically made by mixing lime or gypsum with sand and water. In ancient construction, plaster served several key functions: 1) Surface Finishing: Plaster was used to create a smooth and even surface on walls and ceilings, which could then be painted or decorated. 2) Protective Coating: It helped protect underlying materials, such as stone or brick, from weathering and damage. 3) Decoration: Ancient cultures often used plaster for decorative purposes, including intricate relief work, frescoes, and mouldings. Remnants of plaster still visible at the Hegra Archaeological site indicate that this material was used for decorative purposes. In some cases, it is even coated with a layer of paint film.
