Advanced Search 
Double bird palette
Egyptian
Predynastic Period
Naqada I–II, 3850–3300 B.C.
Medium/Technique
Greywacke
Dimensions
Height x width x thickness: 10.2 x 6 x 0.4 cm (4 x 2 3/8 x 3/16 in.)
Credit Line
Emily Esther Sears Fund
Accession Number03.1472
NOT ON VIEW
CollectionsAncient Egypt, Nubia and the Near East
ClassificationsTools and equipment – Cosmetic and medical
DescriptionThis palette is in the form of two stylized bird heads extending from curved base (which comes almost to a point), each with prominently drilled eye holes. A vertical handle between the two heads has a drilled hole for suspension and is notched on either side for securing string. There are no signs of wear or rubbing. It is in slightly battered condition with some small chips missing.
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.
ProvenanceSaid to be from Naqada. 1903: purchased for the MFA from Mohamed Mohassib, Luxor, Egypt by Albert M. Lythgoe as part of a group (03.1472-03.1473, 03.1495-03.1496, 03.1506) for 12 shillings. Acquired with funds from the Emily Esther Sears Fund. (Accession Date: January 1, 1903)