The appearance of people in ancient Egypt varied over time and across different regions, but we can make some generalizations based on archaeological evidence, art, and historical records. It's important to remember that these are broad trends and not every individual conformed to them:
* Skin Tone: Generally ranged from light brown to dark brown. The climate of Egypt favored darker pigmentation for sun protection. The representations in Egyptian art often depict men with reddish-brown skin and women with lighter yellow-brown skin, although the reasons for this distinction are debated (potentially symbolic or practical, relating to outdoor vs. indoor roles).
* Hair: Hair color ranged from black to dark brown, with some instances of lighter shades due to age or possibly genetics. Hairstyles varied greatly, including short crops, long flowing styles, braids, and elaborate wigs.
* Facial Features: Features also varied, but some common characteristics included oval faces, straight noses, and full lips. There was diversity reflecting interaction with neighboring populations in Nubia, the Levant, and other regions.
* Clothing and Adornment: Ancient Egyptians wore clothing made from linen, which was often white or undyed. They adorned themselves with jewelry, makeup (such as kohl eyeliner), and elaborate headdresses, depending on their status and the period.
It's crucial to avoid imposing modern racial categories onto ancient populations. The concept of race as we understand it today did not exist in the same way in ancient Egypt. The people of Egypt were a diverse group with a complex history, and their appearance reflected this diversity.