Cyperus papyrus

the reed from which paper takes its name.

Papyrus was used by the ancient Egyptians to make a writing material. The pith or inner portion of the stalk was cut into thin strips, pressed together, and dried to form a writing surface. To form a stronger material the sheets were arranged in alternating layers aligned vertically, followed by horizontally, then covered with linen dampened and pressed. Upon drying, the sap of the plant acted as a glue and cemented the layers together. The sheet was finally hammered and dried in the sun.

A page of papyrus, giving the Logia, or sayings of Jesus.