Alfred Lucas

British chemist. He was born in Chorlton-upon-Medlock, 27 August 1867, son of Joshua Peter L., a commercial traveller, and Sarah Thomas. He was educated at the School of Mines, London, and the Royal College of Science. He worked for the British Government as an assistant chemist, until ill health prompted a move to Egypt. There he was engaged as an assistant chemist to the Government Salt Department, 1898. He initially managed the Survey Department and Assay Office laboratories, and was then appointed Chemist for the Antiquities Service, 1923–32. Honorary Consulting Chemist, 1932–45.

He was able to put his expertise in cleaning, consolidating, and conserving antiquities to good use when he was lent by the Antiquities Service to Howard Carter (1874–1939) during the excavation of the tomb of Tutankhamun.

He also worked at Tanis with Pierre M. Montet (1885–1966). He published many books about his work in this field. He died in Luxor, 9 December 1945.