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Black-topped red polished beaker

Nubian
Classic Kerma
about 1700–1550 B.C.
Findspot: Nubia, Egypt, Kubban, Cemetery 110, Grave 23

Medium/Technique Pottery
Dimensions Overall: 11.7 x 15.1 cm (4 5/8 x 5 15/16 in.)
Credit Line Archaeological Survey of Nubia
Accession Number19.3452
NOT ON VIEW
ClassificationsVessels

DescriptionThis bell-shaped (or ‘tulip’) beaker is of a type characteristic of the classic phase of Kerma pottery. The red surface was created by application of ochre prior to firing in an oxidizing atmosphere and polishing with smooth stones/pebbles. The black top was attained by turning the beaker over to place the upper portion in an oxygen-reduced atmosphere of burning organics/ash.
ProvenanceFrom Nubia (Egypt), Kubban. (ASN 110/23). 1911: excavated by the Harvard University–Boston Museum of Fine Arts Expedition for the Archaeological Survey of Nubia; awarded to the MFA in the division of finds by the government of Egypt.

(Accession date: June 28, 2006)