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Disc-shaped palette
Egyptian
Predynastic Period
Naqada III, 3300–2960 B.C.
Findspot: Egypt, Mesaid, Tomb 6
Medium/Technique
Greywacke
Dimensions
Height x width x thickness: 10.8 x 9.7 x 0.8 cm (4 1/4 x 3 13/16 x 5/16 in.)
Credit Line
Harvard University—Boston Museum of Fine Arts Expedition
Accession Number11.202
NOT ON VIEW
CollectionsAncient Egypt, Nubia and the Near East
ClassificationsTools and equipment – Cosmetic and medical
DescriptionThis disc-shaped palette is carved of greywacke. Some ridges left after smoothing create a somewhat uneven surface. The surface is also heavily scratched, but otherwise in good condition.
Stone palettes are identified particularly with earlier periods of ancient Egyptian history. Non-functional (in the utilitarian sense), often elaborately decorated "ceremonial" examples are known. Often simpler, functional examples were used to grind and mix mineral-based pigments (including ocher, malachite, hematite) that were often mixed with other substances to make cosmetics or other decorative media.
Stone palettes are identified particularly with earlier periods of ancient Egyptian history. Non-functional (in the utilitarian sense), often elaborately decorated "ceremonial" examples are known. Often simpler, functional examples were used to grind and mix mineral-based pigments (including ocher, malachite, hematite) that were often mixed with other substances to make cosmetics or other decorative media.
ProvenanceFrom Mesaid (Mesa'eed) tomb 6, object 1 [M/6/1]. 1910: Excavated by the Harvard University–Museum of Fine Arts Expedition; assigned to the MFA by the government of Egypt.
(Accession Date: March 2, 1911)
(Accession Date: March 2, 1911)