Tell el Dab'a, ancient Avaris, situated on the northern coast of Egypt was the the capital of the Hyksos during the second millenium BC. Mural paintings considered to be original works of Minoan craftsmen have been found in an open area of this city. The fresco technique, unknown to the Egyptians but popular with Minoan artists, was employed. The themes often include the Minoan custom of bull leaping, and the execution corresponds in every particular to similar works in Crete.

Although the finds at Tell el Dab'a have not yet been interpreted definitively, they lead to the firm conclusion that the frescoes were commissioned by Egyptians or by Minoan colonials living there.